Erika Martinez shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Erika, a huge thanks to you for investing the time to share your wisdom with those who are seeking it. We think it’s so important for us to share stories with our neighbors, friends and community because knowledge multiples when we share with each other. Let’s jump in: Are you walking a path—or wandering?
As a kid, I was constantly changing the answer to the “what do you want to be when you grow up?” question. One time I remember saying “a cashier at a store” just because I wanted to be the one doing the scanning. The next day I probably said “a teacher” or something in taht lane. But the truth is that I have never walked in a path. As an adult, I still don’t know where I am going or who I want to be in 5 to 10 years. I live in the present and take very impulsive decisions that feel good in my gut. As an artist and designer I can say that wondering through life is part of my process. Trusting my subconscious (gut feeling) to make the right choices based on what I know and what feels correct at that moment without the pressure of a strict path. After all, art is about stepping outside of the box, not following a path that has been walked before.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m the Founder and CEO of Erika Maram. A global luxury design agency where I specialize in crafting elevated, editorial-driven visuals for women owned business. My work blends modern minimalism, fashion-level aesthetics, and strategic design so my clients don’t just look polished but they actually become instantly recognizable.
Born and raised in the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. Graduated with two art degrees and gallery expositions at the age of 23. I’ve worked across so many creative worlds, including modeling, promotions, coaching, retail, fitness; and every one of those roles taught me how powerful visuals really are. People make decisions based on what they see long before they read anything, and that’s the base of what I do as a creative director.
Today, I create editorial-inspired visuals, websites, and content that feel intentional and high-end, but still approachable. I love helping women step into the version of their brand they’ve been imagining but didn’t know how to execute. Beyond running my studio, I also speak at events on topics like visual storytelling, brand consistency, and stepping into your authority online through your visuals.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My mom and grandfather, the power duo that shaped me.
My mom was a single mom who made everything and anything possible so that I had the best childhood. She worked had and never complained. Day in and day out. A hard worker that was in charge of a whole department while I terrorized everyone in the office with my questions and “help”. My mom used to pay me for helping around the office, 25 cents for making document copies or sending a fax. Those thing kept me busy but thought me to ear my money too.
My grandfather was my father figure growing up and he is the one who told me that life is hard but that I am strong. Although I was a girl, he taught me how to fix cars, work in the yard, wash cars and even wood working. Maybe thats why I enjoy power tools. I was his princess but he made sure I was also strong, independent and responsible. If he told me I needed to wake up at 7am and drive him to an appointment, you bet I had to be up and ready by then, not 7:10 or 7:30.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Many times. At least 5 times a year I contemplate the idea of giving up on my business. But you know what? I think taht is a normal part of owning a business. You have good days, regular days and many hard days. Those hard days are the ones that make you resilient. They force you to look at answers and solutions to the current struggle. Those hard days also force you to look back and appreciate the good days. You never appreciate the stars in the sky while shining among them. You have to fall back into the darkness and look up to appreciate them before you can stand up and reach for them again.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
Honesty. Personally, I have no filter and will usually say things before processing them. I give thought love to everyone and if they cant take it then they are looking for lies. That is not the kind of friend or person that I am. I will give you my honest opinion and called you out on things as well. Im not confrontational but I am also not scared to say the truth even if it hurts. That is also something I expect back from my friends, family and clients.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
The fact that I do not worry or think about the concept of legacy. I want to live a life where I make happy memories with the people I love. Legacy is usually surrounded by a feeling or pressure and monetary value. The pressure is equal to stress and you can not enjoy a life that is based on that. Monetary valuables are liquid assets that will fall through the cracks at some point because you are the one putting all the hard work on them. My “legacy” will be in memories, smiles and conversations that will go something like “you remember that time you and Erika…”. Memories hold more value than any material legacy.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://erikamaram.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erika.maram/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikamaram/
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com./erikamaram7/
Image Credits
Photographer: Yesenia Bocanegra
