Jennterview: Isis J, Entrepreneur in Event Services, Photography, Sales and Marketing

My Wordsmith/Website Janitor/Muse for Hire, Stacey, wanted to get to know some of the amazing artists I work with a little better and, since she likes to share the love, we decided to run a series of interviews with photographers, models, designers, and performers... And call them "Jennterviews," because we are dorks. In this edition, we feature Isis J. McCarthy, Entrepreneur in Event Services, Photography, Sales and Marketing. You can check her out on her website at www.isisj.com and follow her on Facebook.

How did you get into your field?

Oddly enough, I escaped for a weekend and found myself in Dallas, where I met an angel who changed my life. Long story short, It was several years after I had earned a business degree, when I had decided to put away all of my dreams and ambitions and devote myself to working a regular 9-5 in attempt to live a "normal" life. When I found myself in Dallas I was burnt out from everyday life and the challenges it presented me with, most of them within me from not living my life in a way that allowed me to utilize my natural talents. When I met my angel, I opened up about the areas in my life that I felt I was having issues in and in response I was asked "What about Isis?” I didn't understand the question at first because I've never really asked myself “What about me?” As I looked completely confused at the question, this individual then continued to say "What defines Isis?" That's when I said "Well.... I'm creative and I like helping people.” My angel asked "Well are you doing any of those things?" I said "No..." and my angel responded "That's your problem, you aren't doing the things you love that make you you. When you go back home find a way to do them again and I promise that you will be so happy." I accepted the mission to set out to regularly do the things that utilize my creative talents that help people and from there everything changed.

What inspires you creatively?

It's not always about creating something new with me... Sure I can create original pieces of art, but my creativity goes beyond creating something physical.

My creativity comes from seeing something that already exists as an opportunity. These opportunities can be people, companies, systems, problems, etc... The opportunity is to take what is already there and find a way to enhance it and create something better while instilling confidence, processes, and allurement that will attract others.

What is your favorite thing about your work?

I LOVE seeing the end results and knowing that I had a part in not only creating something but also in helping someone create themselves.

What is your least favorite thing about your work?

Time management. I'm a very busy woman and I could use two clones of myself. LOL. Soon enough I will be able to start developing my own staff and build a solid team who will be able to handle pre event inquiries and assist in directing events, thus allowing me to focus on growing my company and work on other project I have planned.

What do you wish people understood about your work?

If I had to say something it would be that I wish people knew how much I actually work and how little time I really do have. I get several emails, Facebook messages, calls, and texts every day... I wish that people understood the importance of reading all the details before asking a question, and if after reading the description they still have questions that they would post a question on to the event page or post so everyone can see the question and I only have to answer it one time.

What has been the highlight of your career so far?

You! LOL... Just kidding, but you are very special to me. [D’awww…] My biggest highlight so far has been creating the relationships that I have with other dreamers and doers.

What is the biggest mistake you’ve made in your career?

I don't believe that we make mistakes in life. I believe that everything happens for a reason. Sure, I wish I would have gone to art school and focused on fashion and done a million other things, but if I had I wouldn't have accomplished the things that I have and even worse I wouldn't have the people I have in my life. Also the funny thing is, I am a business woman... who just also happens to be creative. I am able to use my business mindset to create opportunities for creatives, including myself, to develop themselves, meet cool new people, and gain experience that they may not have had otherwise.

What advice do you have for someone entering your field?

DON'T STOP DREAMING... DON'T STOP DOING... DON'T FOOL YOURSELF INTO THINKING THAT YOU CAN'T BECAUSE YOU CAN.

What do you look for in a makeup artist?

I like talented makeup artist, new or experienced, who can think outside of the box and create some serious art on peoples faces. :)

What one personal care item would you be most lost without?

Does my cell phone count? LOL. I would be lost without it. As far as cosmetics and whatnots I would say lotion to keep your skin healthy and glowing.

In your opinion, what is the worst trend in recent memory?

Those heel less heels!!! [Gravity shoes.] No matter how cute they are... they just don't make sense to me.

White chocolate: Sweet treat or a lie and an abomination?

I prefer dark chocolate with raspberries... I have no opinion on the white stuff. LOL.

Anything else you’d like readers to know?

90% of me is an open book, 9% of me I share with the people I love, and then there is that 1% that I keep to myself. Oh that 1%!

#jennterviews