Meet Elise Godoy | Creative Entrepreneur | Designer, Photographer & Writer

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

Hi Elise, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Throughout my education, my plans changed several times as I explored where my passions truly fit. I originally planned to pursue graphic design for social media at Dixie Technical College before later changing my major to secondary English education. I earned my Associate’s degree at Utah Tech University in southern Utah, where I grew up. Creativity has always been a constant in my life. I began working with graphic design and digital photography in early high school, and those interests quickly grew from hobbies into something I took seriously. Over the past eight years, I’ve continued developing those skills through freelancing and side projects while also nurturing my lifelong passion for writing.
When I moved to Arizona in 2024, it felt like the perfect opportunity to try something new and take a leap into entrepreneurship. I had already been building portfolios for classes and freelance work, and I realized that I was creating the foundation for something bigger. That’s when I decided to officially start my LLC, Elise Creatives. Today I’m a student at Grand Canyon University pursuing my bachelor’s degree in Professional Writing for New Media, and I plan to continue my education with a master’s degree in secondary English or humanities education. While I hope to become a teacher in the future, creativity will always be a part of my life. Through my business, I offer graphic design, digital photography, and professional writing services in one place, along with writing tutoring for middle school students and beyond. It allows me to combine creativity, storytelling, and education in meaningful ways.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My art is all about storytelling—capturing moments and experiences in a way that’s both visual and verbal. Whether through photography, graphic design, or writing, I aim to help people share their stories meaningfully, whether it’s a wedding, a personal milestone, or a brand’s identity. What sets me apart is my ability to combine a creative eye with a thoughtful approach, making sure each project is intentional, personal, and impactful. I’m most proud of being able to build a business that allows me to do what I love while helping others preserve and communicate their stories. Getting here hasn’t been easy—it’s taken years of learning, experimenting, and sometimes failing. I’ve had to push through self-doubt, refine my skills, and take risks, but each challenge taught me resilience, adaptability, and the value of pursuing work that feels meaningful. What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that I’m committed to creating with heart. Every project I take on—whether it’s photographing a family, designing a brand, or writing a story—is done with intention, care, and a focus on helping people feel seen and celebrated. My goal is to leave people with something that’s not just visually beautiful, but also meaningful and lasting.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m still exploring Tucson since I only moved here two years ago, but I’ve already found so many spots I love! If my best friend came to visit for a week, I’d want to show them a mix of outdoor adventures, tasty local eats, and a little bit of Arizona history. I’d start with a relaxed morning at the Reid Park Zoo in Tucson, getting up close with the animals, then spend a couple of days soaking in the desert at Saguaro National Park and Catalina State Park—there’s nothing like those hikes and the views out there. For food, I’d make sure we hit Riot Grill in Oracle and Mi Pueblito in Mammoth—both are casual, local favorites with amazing flavors. To round out the trip, we’d explore a bit of history at The San Manuel Historical Museum, and take a day trip to Tombstone, AZ, for a real taste of the Wild West. It’s a little bit of everything—nature, small-town charm, and history—and I can’t wait to keep discovering more hidden gems around Tucson!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I want to give a big shoutout to my parents and my husband. My parents have always been my guiding lights—supporting me, encouraging me, and showing me what it means to work hard. And my husband has been my constant partner, cheering me on, sharing in the ups and downs, and inspiring me to keep creating. I wouldn’t be where I am today without their love, encouragement, and belief in me.

Website: https://elisecreatives.weebly.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elise_creativesco?igsh=MWt6Y2l5ZzAwd3R5ZQ%3D%3D&utm_source=qr

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elise-godoy-948b99361

Twitter: https://x.com/elise_creatives?s=21

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EliseCreatives

Other: Behance:
https://www.behance.net/elise_creatives