We recently had the chance to connect with Ms. Exclusive and have shared our conversation below.
Ms., we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: Who are you learning from right now?
I learn the most from myself through past mistakes, accomplishments and how I instinctively handle obstacles that come my way.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m Miriam Macklin (aka: Ms. Exclusive), or more commonly known by Mimi! I’m a 25 year old mom, entrepreneur, educator, and creator – a ‘ jack of all trades’ if I do say so myself. As a self taught crocheter I started my brand, Designer Exclusive – formerly known as “Doll Exclusives’ – 5 years ago in June.
As a young girl, I’ve always had an affinity for fashion. Playing ‘dress-up’ was my favorite pass time, and it was mandatory I had the hottest accessories, and pieces for my dolls. On top of that – I’ve always thrived creatively. With that being said, it only makes sense that I developed a “passion for fashion’ that is now my clothing brand.
Designer Exclusives is more than a clothing brand. It’s my vision, my peace, and I love it like I love my own child. I’m never more at peace than when I have a crochet hook, and yarn in my hands. Each piece a genuine masterpiece in my eyes – always amazed by my own handywork,
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What part of you has served its purpose and must now be released?
I love this question because I am currently on a journey of growth in many aspects of my life! The part of me that needs to be released is the version of myself that felt responsible for other people’s emotions. The part that overexplained, defended, and dimmed my light to avoid conflict. That version served a purpose when I didn’t feel safe or seen, but it no longer aligns with who I’m becoming. I’m letting go of the need to prove my worth, the instinct to absorb someone else’s chaos, and the habit of shrinking myself to keep peace that was never mine to hold. I’m also releasing the version of me who second guessed my gifts, who hesitated to put value on my work, and who played small in my business out of fear of being ‘too much.’ That chapter is complete. I release it with gratitude, and step into a version of myself that is grounded, confident, creatively powerful, and fully aligned with the woman God is shaping me to be
What fear has held you back the most in your life?
The fear that as held me back the most is the fear of not being ‘ enough.” In life as well as my business. Not skilled enough, not ready enough, not perfect enough. With my business; that fear made me second guess my prices, hesitate to promote my work, and downplay the value of my creations. It kept me accepting less than I deserved, taking on more than I could handle, and holding back ideas that could have elevated my brand.
It made me believe that I had to work twice as hard to justify my gift, instead of trusting that what I create already carries worth. But now I see that this fear was rooted in old versions of me. Versions that didn’t yet recognize my talent, my discipline, or the demand for what I offer. I’m releasing that fear and stepping into the mindset of a confident businesswoman who knows her work is worthy, her time is valuable and her growth is inevitable.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Whose ideas do you rely on most that aren’t your own?
The ideas that I rely on most that aren’t my own are God’s. I’ve learned that my plans and timing are limited, but His wisdom is perfect and far beyond what I can see. I seek His guidance in every decision in my life, my business, and how I show up in the world. When I feel unsure or tempted to follow my own understanding, I pause and ask for His direction, trusting that His plan is greater than anything I could imagine for myself. My choices flow best when they are rooted in His vision, not my own.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
“She turned creativity into influence, integrity into impact, and built a legacy of timeless excellence.”
Contact Info:
- Website: www.designerexclusive.company.site
- Instagram: @thedesignerexclusive / @mimiidadoll
- Facebook: Designer Exclusive
- Youtube: @themsexclusive
