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

Hi India, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
I pursued an artistic career because I enjoy creating new things with my hands. I love making creations that have purpose and value. I love turning people’s ideas into reality. I love putting that smile on a person’s face and knowing that I was able to bring them joy and happiness.

I created India’s Crafts & Creations during COVID when I was still in college for my engineering degree to pass time since we were inside, but this idea I had went from a hobby to a passion. I wouldn’t change my journey because I am just beginning. I cannot wait to see where I go and how many lives I can impact.

I am now finding my niche by being a part of the wedding industry because I love making a person’s big day a little more special. I started off with just making signage for businesses & events, but now I love being apart weddings and being able to make a couple’s day a little less stressful.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
As the owner and founder of India’s Crafts & Creations, I am most proud of putting myself out there in the world and showcasing my creations. I recently did a bridal expo in September, and I am so proud of myself for stepping out of my comfort zone and putting me and my business in front of countless individuals. I was so nervous and anxious that no one would see the beauty in my pieces like I did, but there were moments during the expo that I couldn’t see the booth across from me because everyone was admiring my creations and wanted to talk to me. This moment not only motivated but inspired me to push myself passed the limits and boundaries I have set because I know I can bring something magnificent into society.

I got to where I am by pushing myself and having a support system that saw the potential in me before I saw it in myself. I started this business when I had nothing to do and needed to support myself during college. It has not been easy, nothing ever is when you put yourself in front of society, but I keep telling myself I will reach the goals I have set because I have accomplished some already. I can’t say I overcame my challenges; I would say I turned my challenges into my motivation to make the future I envisioned for myself into my present.

Some lessons I have learned are: 1. Don’t get discouraged when you don’t achieve your immediate results because building a successful business is about creating a lasting legacy. 2. Remember they can copy you, but they can’t copy your energy. 3. Find something you love doing, so it will never feel like work.
4. There is enough room in this industry for you as well. You are not in competition with others. 5. The only person who can stop you, is you. So never stop

I want the world to know that I am a 23-year-old who has found her passion by turning people’s ideas into their reality.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting, 2 places I would take them to eat would be Maggiano’s & Candente. These are my favorite places to eat, get a nice glass of wine, and a good margarita in Houston, TX so far. I really like interactive places so definitely Artech House & Meow Wolf is an experience.

I am still experiencing Houston myself, so this is not a long list lol. Will definitely be a go with the flow vibe for right now until I can call myself a true Houstonian.

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 would love to shoutout my mom, Trischel. When I came up with this idea to start a business, she was all for it. She is an entrepreneur herself; a licensed cosmetologist, hair loss practitioner, certified mastectomy fitter. and owner of Extensions & Flow Salon, LLC. She instilled in me that you should find your purpose in life that God has given you and go for it because it will bring you more joy than you can imagine. She was my first customer, and I will never forget how she pushes my skills past each limit I have set for myself.

She has been there since the beginning and now she is ready to watch me reach the potential that God has bestowed upon my life & business. She is my #1 supporter, mentor, encourager, and customer. I can’t thank her enough for everything.

Website: https://indias-crafts-creations.square.site

Instagram: @indias_crafts_and_creations

Facebook: @IndiaAtkinson

Other: Tiktok: @indie4l

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.