We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda Nava and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
It’s a flexible path for me personally. Some days it is a heavy work day and others are more focused on my personal life and family. In the last few years, especially since the pandemic, I’ve had a stronger perspective on the importance of that balance and how I approach my work.

For example, I now plan my content and partnerships further in advance to allow for a better schedule and to be more efficient with my content and work. This allows me more time with my husband (who is also my photographer and appreciates the scheduling aspect as much as I do, if not more), our family and eliminates a lot of the feeling for urgency around my content. I’ve found that I produce my best work and have the best outcomes in my relationships when that balance hits a stride so it’s become easier for me to understand when that balance is off and I need to regroup.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
The Creative Brief Blog is a space I created while in college to talk about fashion, travel, styling and the stories of an early 20 something trying to figure life out. That space has grown over the years to a business that partners with some of the biggest brands through content creation and influencer campaigns.

Through several years of not making a dime to fully monetizing my blog, social accounts and content, I’ve been blessed to share my perspective on fashion, styling, and brands that I’ve loved since I was young. I’m most proud of the stories I’ve been able to tell through quality content creation and the relationships I’ve built with the people and brands that are a part of The Creative Brief community.

It wasn’t always easy and I’d be lying if I said I hadn’t thought about shutting it down a couple times, but I’ve learned that the more I push forward, the more I’m rewarded. Fighting that feeling of giving up can be tough, but you’ll never know that success comes at 101 if you stop at 100. I keep that in mind whenever I get discouraged.

My hope is that those who read my blog or follow my social accounts feel inspired, included and the best version of themselves. I love to create stories and connect with people over making the small moments the big moments. If they happen to find an outfit that they love, a book recommendation, a brand that resonates with them, or a travel guide that brings them on a trip they’ll never forget, then I’m happy!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Friday night we’d start with dinner at Mimo and then head to broadway for a night out – Jason Aldean’s rooftop or Luke’s 32 Bridge for a couple drinks and great music.

Saturday we’d start with brunch Gathre or The Mockingbird and then head to Arrington Vineyards for the afternoon to enjoy some frozé and hopefully the Mac Shack is there that weekend (best burger and mac and cheese). That night we would head to Barcelona Wine Bar and then end the night with ice cream sandwiches from The Baked Bear.

Sunday morning we’re heading to the Franklin farmer’s market and then spending the afternoon shopping the main square or if they are adventurous we’re packing up the car and going on a hike at Radnor Lake or Twin Falls Rock Island.

Nashville has such a great mix of activities, vibes and options for everyone that you can get a good mix of anything. I think the live music everywhere is so unique so checking out restaurants and venues that offer live music is great, as well as, the great food scene and sports teams. Oh, and the nature through hikes, lakes and parks.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Creative Brief Blog wouldn’t be what it is without the group of people in my life who have always been supportive of me and are continuously in my corner. First, my husband Kollin, who has not only encouraged me, but been my photographer, art director, attorney, and sounding board since starting my blog.

My mom, Kelley, who has helped me edit posts, shoot numerous photos, and been a voice of support since the beginning. I also want to share three friends who are always in my corner and have been cheering me on for years – Lindsey, Abby and Stacey – thank you for always engaging with my content, sharing feedback on content and being the biggest hype girls I could ask for. I love you all!

Website: www.thecreativebriefblog.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/amanda_navaa

Facebook: www.facebook.com/thecreativebriefblog

Other: www.tiktok.com/@amanda_navaa

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