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

Hi Avery, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
I’ve always viewed risk as taking a leap of faith. I like to see it as an opportunity for growth by taking steps out of my comfort zone. Starting my blog and presenting myself as a “blogger” on social media was initially intimidating. I knew I had a passion for fashion and design, but was terrified of looking silly and placing myself in a box. I was scared to fail, to be embarrassed, and to put myself out there for the world to see.

Thankfully, my curiosity and passion burned a bit brighter than my fear. I knew I had the choice to either stay in the same place, or to take a chance on myself. I didn’t have a detailed plan. I had little money, and little understanding of what this journey would entail. Regardless of the outcome, I knew growth would be the result. So when I decided to transition my Instagram and website (blog) into fashion and home decor, my goal was to have fun with it. To this day, my focus is on growth and self-discovery. I’ve found my own version of success in what feels authentic to me, and I’ve been able build a like-minded community around that. Risk can seem daunting because it involves the unknown, but experience has taught me that planning can only get you so far. Maintaining faith while you step out is what carries you through.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve always loved expressing myself through fashion and design, but paving my own path in the social media industry has been anything but linear! Shortly after I graduated SHSU as a business major, I landed my first 9-5 job. I had always felt like corporate life wasn’t for me, but didn’t start making my own income until over a year after graduation. I knew I wanted my work to be flexible and creative. So I’d research Google and Youtube, and soon after, I learned how to build websites for small businesses, and I’d design graphics for social media entrepreneurs. For fun (and for extra cash), I’d spend some weekends thrift shopping, and reselling my old clothes on Poshmark (@shopwithavery). Through these little ventures, I re-discovered my passion for fashion and creative design. So with little income, some risk, and a lot of faith, I eventually decided to transition my work into sharing my love of fashion and design on social media!

Throughout this journey, there have been several bumps and roadblocks. I’ve had to learn a lot about time management and priorities. I’ve had to learn (and am still learning!) how to put self-judgment and fear of opinions aside. I used to be hard on myself for not having it all figured out. I felt pressure to live-out a version of a “successful” life after college. But if it weren’t for the experiences I’ve had, and some willingness to fail, I wouldn’t be able to wake up with the purpose and the passion that I have today, and by living the path that feels most authentic to me!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d recommend starting the week off with brunch at one of my favorite spots! Postino Heights, Upstairs Bar & Lounge, Empire Cafe in Montrose, or Dish Society.

If it’s in the month of February/March, the Houston Rodeo is a MUST! There are always events going on at Discovery Green.
And a little shopping in Rice Village or the Houston Galleria. And crawfish at The Barking Pig in the Heights is my favorite spot!

The Rustic (live music!), Pitch 25 and Truck Yard are all great, interactive spots to gather with friends in Downtown Houston.

Dinner at Sixty Vines in Rice Village for an amazing selection of wine and food.

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?
Alongside my mom & dad who have taught me about living in faith and standing in my convictions, I’d also like to thank my best friends and sorority sisters from SHSU Alpha Chi Omega. They have supported and encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone while I found the courage to pursue my dreams.

Website: https://averycarrier.com

Instagram: @avery_carrier

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/averycarrier/

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

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@averycarrier

Other: Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/averycarrier/ TikTok: @avery_carrier LTK: https://www.shopltk.com/explore/averycarrier Amazon Storefront: amazon.com/shop/avery_carrier

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX 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.