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

Hi Mikayla, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lessons my business has taught me…. Are the skills of patience, perseverance, consistency, adaptability as well as money and time management. Patience is one of the skills that has shaped me tremendously. I have definitely been taught plenty of patience, through my journey of growing a local small business. My perseverance has even been tested on a many occasions. As an entrepreneur, I’ve had to motivate myself to persevere even when I was ready to “call a quits.” As I move forward with Galactic Crafts, I have learned that staying “active” on social media does wonders for keeping my business ‘alive’ and ‘thriving.’ This includes staying in touch with my previous customers but also meeting future acquaintances. (Which involves me stepping out of my comfort zone as an introvert.) But when it comes to adaptability, I’ve found myself having to adjust and perfect certain aspects of my product. In order to provide the best customer service I can. Finally, the skills of money and time management have indeed taught me the biggest lessons about myself. Such as; my spending habits, my saving habits as well as good old fashioned bargain shopping. I’ve learned to commit to a savings account, as well as set spending limits where they’re needed most. In conclusion, I could really say my local small business Galactic Crafts has taught me more lessons about my inner strength than I’ve come to fully realize.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What’s sets me apart from other business is my unique yet one of kind brand! As the Galactic Crafts owner, I strive to be my most authentic self in and out. On the contrary, I sell especially “handcrafted,” seasonal candles. Galactic Crafts also provides powerful healing advice and spirituality media content. Last, our brand sheds light on a variety of ways to ‘expand your consciousness’ and ‘raise your vibrational awareness.’ What I’m most excited about is what lies in the future for Galactic Crafts. What these opportunities have in store for me and my small business. How I got to where I am today is solely off hard-work and dedication… And no, there’s nothing easy about maintaining a business. I overcame most my challenges by being persistent and keeping a positive mindset. Mindset is KEY! The main lessons I’ve learned from starting my small business, Is to never give up! I’ve come to the learn that there’s so much more behind the scenes to becoming an entrepreneur. Becoming your own Graphic Designer, Financial Advisor, Creative Development Team and Social Media Marketer, is no easy task. I would of never imagined the depth it’s takes to be your own boss!

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.
In my opinion, I especially love visiting the “West Gate Entertainment District.” Located in Glendale, it’s right off the loop 101 freeway… it’s easy to get too and you have plenty of stores and restaurants to choose from! My favorite restaurant would have to be ‘Yard House.’ They provide excellent food, great service and exquisite alcoholic drinks. As for hanging out, West Gate has many spots where you can relax and lounge around outside. Although, I do think Tanger Outlet is the best spot to hang out. There’s a wide variety of shops and the energy is lively. Tanger doesn’t disappoint. Finally, there are a few places where you can have some fun. Such as: AMC Theatre, Dave & Busters, and the local clubs, Mcfaddens, Salt, Whiskey Rose… and everyone favorite club ‘Fat Tuesdays!’ All of them are just as fun and exciting. West Gate always has a way of keeping you entertained!

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’d love to shoutout my partner, Orlonzo Brockman… if it weren’t for him, I probably wouldn’t be where I am today, with Galactic Crafts. He’s pushed and inspired me to be the best version of myself, that I can possibly be! Hes motivated me from the very start and has had my back since day one. Orlonzo has shown me true partnership as well as a true support system. He continues to inspire me to never stop working hard for things I desire in life. That with enough hard work, comes undeniable rewards of abundance of all kinds. That no dream is ever too big when your mindset is right. Orlonzo is the hardest working man I know next to ‘God’ and he gives me the strength I need. Orlonzo Rashon Brockman you are definitely my rock!

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/galacticcrafts12/

Facebook: @galacticcrafts12

Image Credits
Macarthy Paul Tsosie

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.