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

Hi CJ, why did you pursue a creative career?
The reason why I chose to pursue an artistic or creative career is because simply put, that is me in a nutshell! Not only do I have a passion and desire to create things from my very own imagination, I love seeing them come to life! It doesn’t get any better than actually having your creation come to fruition. My creative and artistic side has led me to create businesses with becoming a lifestyle creator, as well as an interior decorator.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I have loved doing what I do for sometime now and it has brought about creating a patented product to go along with my expertise! I enjoy getting to know and help my clients. As a lifestyle creator when they ask for fashion tips, makeup looks, and how to make things better in their lives – I relish in the moment! Early in life, I gravitated towards psychology and studied as my minor. I utilize that skill to better understand and assist as best I can for each individual. Due to this, I believe that I set myself apart from others just because I have my own style, with how I present myself and get to know my clients. With persistent work and dedication, I have slowly grown and I still love every moment and minute of it. Overcoming obstacles and challenges due to competition, the market, natural disasters and more brought about roadblocks. However, persistence pays off! Some of the lessons that I have learned along the way is to not second-guess yourself and if you know you’re capable, then conquer and achieve it! As to what I want the world to know about me and my brand. What you’re getting is awesome, top-notch and outstanding service. Not only as a service, but one that is customizable and dedicated to the clients’ needs.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh what fun we would have! We would start off the day with food and drinks in the upscale River Oaks area, along with a little bit of shopping. From there we would bounce around to enjoy local attractions, and organically mingle with our fellow Houstonians. While we’re at it, let’s zoom down to Kemah and hit up Moody Gardens, while visiting Galveston. Not forgetting to take care of  our tired feet, manis, pedis and some spa treatment will assist in rejunivination. After a super long and fantastic weekend, we close out with nice sounds of jazz at Sambuca‘s!

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?
There’s a number of people that I could give credit to, especially those who have allowed me to provide them with my services. However, the one main person that stands out above the rest is my husband who has been there through thick and thin!

Instagram: A Polished You (@apolishedyou) & Loving Your Home (@lovingyourhometx

Image Credits
All photos or collages of work were done by A Polished You or Loving Your Home. There may be some images taken by others, but were utilized to create a look for inspiration.

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.