Jolenna Mapes

Hi! Meet Jolenna. Full disclosure. I’m a self-proclaimed Pink Toast Fanboy. I’ve always been an admirer of the work they put out. It’s awesome. Knowing the people behind the scenes like Jolenna making it all happen make’s it even better. It’s driven by passion. I love it. I asked her five questions. Addie asked her one.

P.S. Shoutout to #instabeerupCLT for bringing awesome people together. That’s where we met.

What is your passion?

My passion is finding happiness through creativity. Being here at Pink Toast doing graphic design as well as my artwork has allowed me to explore my passion. It could really be anything that allows me to be creative. For instance, it could be food related. I just started a paleo diet so I’ve been restricted as to what I can eat. I figure if I have to eat a restricted diet I may as well plate it really pretty. I’m really enjoying that. I was a pastry chef for a couple years which was also a great outlet for my creativity.

What is your greatest indulgence?

Wine! no… just kidding. I would have to say coming up with creative ideas or designs that i’m really proud of. Then I get obsessed with it. If I discover a new medium or technique I indulge in it and I want to do nothing but that.

What advice would you give yourself 10 years ago?

Stay true to yourself. Stay focused on what you actually want and not what other people expect of you.

What frustrates you?

Rude people. They are the worst.

Where would you move to live the rest of your life if you could only move one more time?

Hmm. I would say Tuscany. It’s so beautiful. The idea of living on a vineyard, drinking wine and being with family seems perfect. Plus I can work remotely.

Addie Holby asked what was your screen name in high school?

JJG which is Jolly Jo Giant. That was my nickname throughout all of high school.

You can find Jolenna on Twitter @jomapes13 or designing awesomeness at Pink Toast.