Calling All Creatives: How They Launched Their Dreams in Charlotte (and How You Can, Too)
By The Biscuit Staff
Ever dream of ditching your day job to transform your passion into a thriving creative business here in the Queen City?
It might seem daunting, but that’s the path these Charlotte entrepreneurs chose – and they’re ready to share their secrets.
We chatted with a few of our communities creatives to hear their stories. There’s Gloria Zavaleta (@gloria.c.zavaleta), the photographer and filmmaker who found her calling documenting Charlotte’s vibrant art scene thanks to a chance gig and a supportive community. And Morgan Gayla (@morgan_gayla), the powerhouse singer, who learned the hard way that passion needs a business plan – now she’s armed with pricing packages and contracts.
We also heard from Jasmine Roberts (@calluntomagic_) whose late-night polymer clay sessions blossomed into a thriving jewelry business, and Callunto Magic (@calluntomagic_) who found his voice at an open mic thanks to a friend’s nudge. We even get the inside scoop from hair stylist turned jewelry designer Lunafira (@lunafira_) who took the leap to open her own salon and is now building a new creative dream, one handcrafted piece at a time.
Sound daunting?
These artists prove it’s possible – with determination, a willingness to learn, and a city like Charlotte cheering you on. Ready to take the next step?
Let’s dive into their best advice for getting your creative hustle off the ground.
1. Find Your Spark (and a Few Good Mentors)
For photographer and filmmaker Gloria Zavaleta (@gloria.c.zavaleta), the creative journey began with a love of live music and a chance headshot gig. “I met Sam Guzzie, who later hired me to document her META Mural Program,” Gloria says. “That project opened doors and introduced me to a whole world of artists who’ve kept me inspired and supported my work.”
Tip: Network, Network, Network! Attend workshops, gallery shows, or join creative collectives (and come to Creative Mornings). Putting yourself out there creates opportunities and connects you to the people who can help you take those first big steps.
2. Believe in Your Worth (and Don’t Be Afraid to Ask for It!)
Singer Morgan Gayla (@morgan_gayla) reminds us that passion can’t pay the bills. “When I started out, I’d leave gigs with $50 after paying my band,” she says. She learned to create value packages, use contracts, and most importantly, negotiate. Her advice? “Know your worth, remember exposure doesn’t pay the bills, and don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re being lowballed.”
Tip: Treat Your Craft Like a Business: Research industry standards for pricing, set clear terms with clients, and get everything in writing to protect yourself and your time.
3. Start Small and Keep Creating
For jewelry artist Jasmine Roberts (@calluntomagic_), nights spent creating with polymer clay turned into her first sale… and then a steady business. “I’d make 20 pairs in a night! You don’t need a grand plan right away – just a willingness to start and to keep learning your craft.”
Tip: Just Start! Don’t let perfectionism hold you back. Share your work, ask for feedback, and allow your business to evolve alongside your skills.
4. Use Your Voice
Spoken word artist Callunto Magic (@calluntomagic_) found his voice with a little encouragement and a leap of faith. “A friend put me on her open mic flyer before I’d even made a decision! That push ignited something in me.”
Tip: Put Yourself Out There: Whether it’s an open mic, a small market, or an online shop, find a way to share your work. Sharing your craft gets you noticed (and the feedback helps you grow!).
5. Dream Big and Build Your Team
After years building her clientele, hair stylist turned jewelry designer Lunafira (@lunafira_) opened her own salon. Now she’s building a new creative business; one piece of handcrafted jewelry at a time. “Dreams change and evolve. Don’t be afraid to pivot or try new things – but find your community along the way.”
Tip: Lean on Your Support System: Whether it’s fellow artists, business mentors, or even family and friends, surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and can lend a helping hand.
The Takeaway
As The Listening CLT (@thelisteningclt) proves, sometimes it just takes a big dream and a willingness to take a chance. He moved to Charlotte with nothing and pitched his event idea. Now, he’s celebrating his 20th show and building a new art series. With heart, hustle, and the support of a city like Charlotte, anything is possible.
Ready to unleash your inner creative entrepreneur? Click here!
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