Annie Reyes

I think my success comes from a lifetime of creating, a willingness to keep learning—no matter my age—and finding ways to connect, even when words fall short. As a Latina and a non-native English speaker, I’ve sometimes felt the language barrier, but art has always been my way of communicating what I can’t always express out loud. My experience, both in years and in the variety of creative projects I’ve tackled, has taught me that creativity has no expiration date. The real magic happens when I share that with others and see how art helps us understand each other, no matter where we’re from or what language we speak.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is that age is never a barrier to starting something new. I began this chapter of my creative journey in my 50s, and I quickly realized you’re not starting late, you’re starting with a lifetime of experience, perspective, and resilience that only makes your work richer. Every year, every challenge, and every story you’ve lived becomes part of what you create. If anything, experience is your superpower. The most important thing is to trust yourself, stay curious, and remember that your dreams don’t have an expiration date. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself or to follow a passion that lights you up.

My advice to young women starting out—no matter the industry, is to honor your unique story and trust the value of your perspective. You don’t have to fit anyone else’s mold or wait for the “perfect” time to begin. Your experiences, background, and even your obstacles can become your strengths.

Be curious, ask questions, and don’t shy away from opportunities just because they feel intimidating. Seek out mentors and community, and remember that supporting other women lifts everyone up. Most importantly, give yourself permission to grow at your own pace. Whether you’re creating, leading, or learning, your journey is valid, and you’re never too young (or too old) to make an impact.

One of the biggest challenges right now is the rise of AI-generated art and how it’s changing the creative landscape. While technology can be a powerful tool, it also raises questions about originality, value, and what it means to create something truly personal. For artists who pour their heart into handmade work, it can feel overwhelming to see digital tools producing art at lightning speed. There’s a real concern about how to stand out and protect the authenticity of human-made creations.

But I also see this as an opportunity, a chance to celebrate what makes handmade art unique: the imperfections, the story behind each piece, and the connection between artist and audience. People still crave that human touch, the sense that someone’s hands and heart were part of what they’re experiencing. By staying true to our voices and sharing the stories behind our work, we can remind others why original, handmade art matters now more than ever.

The values that matter most to me, both in my work and in my personal life, are faith, family, and integrity. My faith gives me strength and perspective, helping me stay grounded and grateful no matter what challenges come my way. Family is my foundation and my biggest inspiration; their love and support motivate me to keep growing and creating.

Integrity ties it all together. I believe in showing up honestly, keeping my word, and doing the right thing, even when no one is watching. These values guide every decision I make, from the art I create to the way I run my business and nurture relationships. Faith, family, and integrity are my compass, and I try to carry them with me into everything I do.