Meet Judith Melendrez | Graphic designer and photographer.

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

Hi Judith, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Before quitting my job and becoming my own boss, fear was the foremost thing on my mind. It’s not easy to forge your own path. This was my second attempt, but I also resolved to give it my all to make it work this time. That meant taking care of my emotional well-being during the inevitable setbacks and always seeking someone to talk to when I had doubts about navigating my new professional life. It also involved carving out time to pursue a new personal project, something that would remind me of why I wanted to maintain this lifestyle. Starting my own business was also about being kinder to myself because the first person I needed to believe in was me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I would primarily like to be able to share part of my personal story to connect with people emotionally. I believe we can go through different stages or challenges that we often face alone. Ideally, we could see how common it is to go through these situations so as not to punish ourselves or be hard on ourselves. Doubts about your own decisions can arise, and you may even become desperate. It’s not about thinking positively all the time; it’s about knowing that there will be days for you and allowing yourself to feel even the unpleasant. If asked for something that distinguishes me, I wouldn’t really have an answer. I have my own style, like all other artists, but it’s much more beneficial when you draw inspiration from someone else’s work and recognize their talent and yours. Connecting with people and sharing why you do what you do helps you feel more confident to keep moving forward. Also, let’s not forget that practicing and learning are not enough; we also have to apply what we learn to show it to others.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
For sure, my favorite spots in the city are those events thrown by up-and-coming young artists, with all sorts of art to enjoy. We could hit up the usual spots, like checking out the Botanical Garden, grabbing dinner at the top taco joints, or even hitting the ice rink at the Explanada. But honestly, what really gets me going are the late-night walks and hangouts, especially with all the nightlife vibes or stumbling upon new places when plans take a spontaneous turn after midnight.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I like to say that I have many people in my life to thank. Since university, I have received support from my friends and family. That’s why I want to primarily thank my parents for not letting me give up, and my sister, who has been my role model in photography for years. To the Página Diseño firm, where I was able to begin developing myself both professionally and personally, for their support and the good times. To Iliana Bernal for always answering my questions and being there when I need her the most. To Gaby, Paola, Elda, Mirsa, Teo, Alan, Alexandra, Aida, and Ana for being part of my journey’s start. To Kenya Molina for teaching me the incredible art of worrying less and being my mentor. To Rodnez for sharing his knowledge and being a great friend. And to all my first clients and those who continue to support me today.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/judithmelendrez.design?igsh=MTN2ZW5rZzBxZHJ1dA==

Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/Judithmelendrezdesign

Other: Behance:

https://www.behance.net/judithmelendrez

Image Credits
Staff: Joel Lopez
Assistant Creative Director: Mother of Sun
Makeup: Nancy Medrano
Model: Alexa Padilla
Special Thanks: Roxanna Rojas, Kenya Molina, Alexa Osuna and Lauren Altman