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

Hi Cassidy, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I chose to pursue a creative career because it was innate in me from a young age. Both my parents were creative, and growing up, our house had an art studio that was filled with all sorts of toys for creativity. I had access to a drawing table with every color pencil, oil pastel, and marker, as well as massive sheets of paper to experiment on. We also had a pottery wheel, sculpting tables, and easels for large paintings and drawings, which I would watch my dad use to create beautiful and colorful pieces. This environment fostered a love of creativity that became an integral part of my life.

In high school, I realized my talent for being creative and artsy when my art teacher gave me more advanced assignments than the other students. When it came time to choose a college major, I knew I wanted to do something creative, but my entrepreneurial parents also encouraged me to consider how I could blend creativity and business. My dad advised me to take some business courses since it’s important to train oneself in how the majority of the business world functions. Thus began my decision-making process. While I knew what I didn’t want – to be a business major – I also knew I loved painting and drawing but wasn’t sure if I could make a living off of it.

As I paid attention to my day-to-day life, I began to notice things that I was drawn to. I found myself often calling out details of lighting or ambiance levels in a restaurant, paying attention to the fabrics on furniture in hotels, and observing how different layouts of spaces affected people’s moods. I would discuss these observations with others, and my friends were surprised that they hadn’t noticed these details before. Upon speaking to family friends and mentors, I discovered that I had a natural aptitude for interior design. I felt confident and at ease with my decision to pursue this field. It allowed me to create an experience for people, build relationships, and continuously learn about what lighting, sounds, materials, and layouts could transform a space into a cozy retreat or a moody cocktail bar. Moreover, it had a business model attached to it, and I knew that the ultimate goal was to have my own firm.

Choosing a career path that aligns with one’s natural abilities and interests is a recipe for success and fulfillment. Pursuing a creative career has been a rewarding experience for me, and I am grateful for the supportive environment that allowed me to develop my skills and passions. With every project, I am reminded of the positive impact that creativity can have on people’s lives, and I am inspired to continue pushing the boundaries of my craft. Whether it is through art, interior design, or any other creative field, I encourage everyone to explore their creative potential and find a career that brings them joy and purpose.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Out West Studio is an interior design and hospitality studio that specializes in restaurant and retail design. What sets us apart from others is our unique ability to tell our clients’ stories through the spaces we create. We’re passionate about using texture, color, edge, nostalgia, and luxury to transform spaces and help our clients achieve their goals.

What I’m most proud of is our view of partnership with every project we take on. When we work together with a client, their project becomes our project. We approach every project with a deep level of care, positive attitudes, and professionalism. We see challenges as opportunities and problems as platforms, using them to find creative solutions and stretch design to its highest task of blending art and function.

Starting my own company wasn’t easy, and the pandemic added a new layer of challenges. But I overcame these obstacles by relying on the support and encouragement of my family and friends. I learned that I don’t have to know everything, and that it’s okay to lean on my network of partners, such as material vendors, craftsman, fabricators, and contractors, to create the best possible outcome.

What I want the world to know about Out West Studio is that we’re inspired by the natural beauty of the American West Coast and the rugged charm of the desert. We bring together elements of the coast and the desert to create spaces that are both modern and timeless. We don’t just design spaces, we tell stories that are unexpected and timeless. Our team of innovative thinkers and doers brings a unique blend of creativity and expertise to every project, creating unforgettable and functional spaces.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
As a resident of the charming Leucadia/Encinitas area, I would kick off the day with a visit to Ironsmith for a coffee, followed by a stroll to Beacons beach to watch the waves. Or walk along the rail trail in Cardiff since the flowers are blooming and its absolutely gorgeous.

Then I would want to get some activity in and I’d lead my friend to Cottonwood Courts for a game of pickleball to get our hearts pumping. For lunch I would probably have us stop and get poke bowls from Seaside Market and eat them on the beach.

As the sun begins to dip, I’d make a stop to the cute Little Victory Wine Market along the 101 to grab some wine for a beach picnic. And for dinner, it’s an absolute must to get pizza at Corner Pizza.

And if we were feeling adventurous and up for a night on the town, I’d lead the way to Born and Raised for some classy cocktails and fun atmosphere. And a dinner with a view at the rooftop of Seneca would be the perfect spot to cap off a fabulous weekend in San Diego

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I owe a great deal of gratitude to my parents for raising me in an environment that fostered creativity, play, and expression. Growing up, my parents always encouraged me to explore my interests and pursue my passions. My dad’s entrepreneurial spirit was especially influential in shaping my outlook on life. He instilled in me and my siblings the belief that we could build anything we wanted, as long as we were willing to put in the hard work and perseverance required. This mindset has been invaluable in my creative career, where every project requires a unique vision and a willingness to take risks. I am also grateful to my mom for her unwavering support and encouragement, especially during challenging times. She has always been my number one cheerleader, reminding me that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible. Thanks to my parents’ guidance and support, I am now living my dream of building a successful creative career, and for that, I am forever grateful.

Website: outwestandco.com

Instagram: out.west.studio

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidywilliams-outwest/

Image Credits
individual images by emily kat photography interior images by james furman

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