How This Digital Artist Turned Her Passion Into A Dream

emily fintaemily finta

In our Ask A Founder series this fall, we follow 10 female founders on their entrepreneurial journey. Thousands of women have experienced our Selfmade virtual business coaching program, led by Brit + Co founder Brit Morin and sponsored Office Depot OfficeMax. Here, we hear from Selfmade alum and digital artist Emily Finta about the risks she’s taken, her path toward believing in herself, and the most powerful thing she does in her day.

ask a founder

How would you describe your brand in five words? Bold, Creative, Fun, Unique, Original.

What mood do you want your brand to evoke? Bold and exciting. My business is my way to express myself because I’ve always been very quiet and reserved.

What was your aha moment before starting your business? My business has evolved a lot throughout the years. I started off with a blog because I felt like none of my friends understood my dream to become an entrepreneur. I thought web design was the only way for a graphic designer to make money with an online business. I’d never really enjoyed the coding side of web design and one day someone made me realize that the options of what I could do were endless.

What were you doing before you started the business? I was working on a degree in graphic design, and I started off at a sign shop creating graphics for signs, billboards, and vehicles.

What’s one thing you wish you knew as an entrepreneur? How much work it is. I have a very creative mind, so the business side of things is very hard for me and takes a lot more research and trial and error.

How do you get in the right headspace to start your day? I listen to my Inspiring playlist on Spotify, which basically includes any upbeat song with inspirational lyrics.

How do you celebrate the small wins? I share my win with my group of business friends and sometimes I’ll reward myself with an iced caramel latte.

What is the biggest risk you’ve taken so far? I was stuck at my first full-time graphic design job and wasn’t making enough to live on my own, so I decided to move from Michigan to Tennessee without a job or knowing anyone. I was stuck in my comfort zone, and I knew I needed to take a big risk to push myself.

What’s your favorite form of self-care? I love reading! I try to read every night before bed and it’s my favorite way to relax after a long day.

What is the most powerful thing you do in your day? As an introvert I tend to get in my own head a lot, so developing the habit of journaling every night has helped me figure out my fears and let go of things that are bothering me. I also make sure to include something I’m grateful for and something I’ve accomplished that day because I tend to overlook how much I’ve done.

What is your go-to productivity hack? When planning out my week, I always break down my goals to specific days so I know exactly what to do and when.

What is your favorite desk essential? My iPad with GoodNotes! I love using the planner I designed to plan everything out. It’s helped me get so much done and work on my daily habits. I love checking off the boxes after I’ve completed a task.

What has receiving the Office Depot OfficeMax scholarship to Selfmade done to help you grow your business? The scholarship gave me so much confidence and clarity in what I wanted to do for my business. I learned so much about the business side of things that would have taken forever to research and figure out on my own.

How have Office Depot OfficeMax services/products helped you accomplish more in your business? They have helped me organize my desk and buy fun pens that make me excited to take notes and make to-do lists.

What does the word “self-made” mean to you? Self-made means to follow your dreams and build the life that you want even if others tell you to take a different path. I have constantly been told throughout my life that I couldn’t do my job because I am a quiet introvert. Being self-made is knowing exactly what you want your life to look like, working as hard as you can to get there, and pushing yourself to do the things that scare you.

Thanks Emily for reminding us that believing in yourself, even if others are skeptical, is the only way forward as an entrepreneur. Office Depot OfficeMax can help you with the rest, including staying organized & saving time with a suite of business services to help you accomplish more – from signs, posters & banners to get your business noticed to marketing materials to help bring your brand vision to life.





Whether your passion is in fashion, music, home decor, or something entirely different, we all love sharing our unique POV on social and with friends. Now, with the new free Photoshop mobile app for iPhone (with Android on the way), editing photos, crafting mood and vision boards for a goal-setting 2025, or simply exploring your creative side with photography and design is so easy and so fun. You can literally use it anywhere!

Check out the new Photoshop mobile app editing and design features!

Adobe Photoshop

We've tinkered with Photoshop’s image editing and design tools, such as layering, masking and the popular Firefly-powered Generative Fill, for work and play and they are just as pro-grade as the desktop version but so simple to use on the go. You can work on the same projects across devices, and access Adobe Stock library of hundreds of thousands of free assets. Not a quote "designer"? The app makes it easy for anyone to explore and create.

Adobe Photoshop

Here are just some of the amazing features:

  • Create unique images and designs by combining, compositing and blending images with tools like selections, layers and masks
  • Remove, recolor, or replace parts of an image with the intuitive Tap Select tool
  • Remove flaws like the Spot Healing Brush to brush away distractions in seconds
  • Use Gen AI tools like Generative Fill and Generative Expand to easily add new elements to designs and quickly edit photos
  • Integrate with creative apps including Adobe Express, Adobe Fresco and Adobe Lightroom
  • Add, replace and create with a vast library of hundreds of thousands of free Adobe Stock assets

Adobe Photoshop

The Generative Fill tool is a total game changer. Remove photo bombers or unwanted distractions from your background to achieve the perfect shot every time. You can also drop Photoshop files into Adobe Express for free to add animations, music, schedule social posts across all major platforms and so much more.

Adobe Photoshop

It's truly our favorite new app of 2025. Download it now and tap into the endless designs that elevate your photos and fuel your passions this year. Happy designing!

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Now that so many people have their heads buried in smartphones and other devices 24/7, countless timeless manners that once defined social decorum have seemingly slipped into oblivion.

The truth is there's a certain charm and respect that comes with old-school etiquette that's well worth reviving. So, here are some gestures and overall manners that should've never gone out of style in the first place.

Scroll to see all the old-school manners that have almost disappeared...

1. Getting Dressed Up

Marcus Queiroga Silva

In an age where super casual attire has become the norm, it's not uncommon to see people in pajamas at the grocery store or even attending doctor's appointments. While comfort is key, and athleisure is "in," there's still something special about dressing up for an occasion.

Whether you're just running errands, attending a casual gathering, or going out for a night on the town, taking the time to put together a thoughtful outfit shows you respect yourself, the people you're with, and whatever you're doing.

2. Addressing People With Titles

cottonbro studio

Addressing someone with a title like "sir," "ma'am," or "miss" wasn't just viewed as polite in the past. It also reflected a basic level of respect and acknowledgment of someone's status or age.

Using titles may seem old-fashioned in today's world, but it can still make a meaningful impact. While it's common for people to skip formalities and dive straight into conversation, taking a moment to use a respectful title is a small gesture that makes a great first impression.

3. Offering Seats To Women, Children, And Elderly

cottonbro studio

Did chivalry on public transport die? It used to be commonplace to offer up seats on buses, trains, and subways to women, children, and the elderly. Now, people are arguably so caught up with texting and social media that they might not notice (or care) to continue this act.

This tiny act of kindness doesn't take a lot of effort, but it speaks volumes about your character. If you see someone who might need your seat more, like a pregnant woman or an older man, offer your seat to show empathy and respect.

4. Being A Friendly Neighbor

Zen Chung

Being a friendly neighbor used to be a cornerstone of suburban life, but today, it's becoming increasingly rare for people to interact with those who live right next door.

Many people now come and go without much more than a polite wave or brief nod, and the days of chatting over the fence or borrowing a cup of sugar seem like a distant memory.

Nonetheless, taking the time to be a friendly, approachable neighbor can strengthen your sense of community. Don't be afraid to introduce yourself, greet them when you pass by, and offer help when you can.

5. Saying "Please" And "Thank You"

Mizuno K

Nowadays, convenience seems to trump consideration, and it's easy to forget the power of simple politeness. Saying "please" and "thank you" probably seems like basic manners, and that's because it is. Yet, these magic words are still becoming rare to hear.

The next time someone holds the door for you or rings up your groceries at the supermarket, don't forget to thank them. Or, when you're asking a retail employee for help, say please. These small phrases go a long way in showing appreciation and respect.

6. Apologizing In Real Life

Kaboompics.com

Everybody makes mistakes, but what's your go-to way to rectify them? When you've upset a loved one, you might type out a quick text or leave them a voicemail. While that's common practice today, nothing can replace in-person apologies.

Texts simply lack depth and can feel impersonal. By getting in your car, driving to your friend or partner's house, and knocking on their front door to apologize, you're making it clear that you feel genuine remorse and value their feelings.

7. Sending "Thank You" Notes

Katya Wolf

On a similar note, sending a "thank you" text to a friend or relative after they attend an important life event, like your birthday party, graduation, baby shower, or wedding, just isn't the same as sending a handwritten thank you note. This thoughtful gesture is now a lost art.

Not only is it helpful for our mental health and relationships to actively express gratitude to those around us, but it benefits the receiver, too. Ditch your texts (or worse, the mass "thank you" group chat), and send a thank you note instead.

8. Being A Bit Modest

Polina Zimmerman

Finally, this one may be a bit controversial, but it's time to bring back a bit of modesty.

Since so much of our lives revolve around social media, what we wear and how we portray ourselves online has turned into a competition. And it has pushed many people, especially teens and young women, to opt for more revealing clothing.

This isn't meant to shame anyone or stifle self-expression. On the contrary, having some modesty is about showing respect for yourself and not allowing just anyone access to your body. Plus, longing and desire are some of the most powerful emotions, and leaving certain things up to others' imagination can add to the allure of who you are.

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The business world is more competitive today than ever. From higher education to greater experience requirements and major technological advancements, the fight to climb the corporate ladder at work has never been more cutthroat.

Even so, certain zodiac signs are naturally equipped to rise above the rest. Whether due to strategic thinking or unwavering determination, here are the eight zodiac signs most likely to succeed in business.

Scroll to find out which zodiac signs are the most likely to success at work!

Kaboompics.com

1. Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Leos are natural-born leaders who always make their presence known. They're able to effortlessly command attention with their charisma, creativity, and confidence, and they absolutely love being in the spotlight.

But they don't just draw people in because of their drive for achievement and recognition. They also inspire and motivate those around them to be better, which is why Leos are prime candidates for leadership positions like CEOs or entrepreneurs.

Polina Zimmerman

2. Capricorn (December 21 – January 19)

This sign is typically practical, goal-oriented, and disciplined. Capricorns don't believe in cutting corners or doing things halfway. Instead, they commit to all projects fully, and their work ethic is unmatched.

That's what sets Capricorns apart in the business world. They're able to plan strategically and keep long-term goals in mind. Their reliability and determination make them excellent entrepreneurs, company execs, and business partners.

Polina Tankilevitch

3. Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Aries are trailblazers with a natural ability to lead. The fact that they're always ready for a challenge, coupled with their bold energy, helps them thrive in competitive environments.

This sign isn't afraid to make decisions that push them out of their comfort zones, either. They understand that taking risks can lead to big rewards in the future. Such fearlessness and confidence are invaluable in the business world.

Anna Nekrashevich

4. Scorpio (October 23 - November 21)

Scorpios are able to focus, strategize, and push through any obstacles in their way. This sign is also able to read people, which is critical when it comes to making decisions and striking deals in business.

They're great at negotiating and building relationships, so Scorpios can hold their own in high-pressure environments.

MART PRODUCTION

5. Virgo (August 23 – September 22)

Virgos are known for their sharp minds and practical approach to work. They have an eye for detail and a strategic way of tackling tasks, making sure that nothing falls through the cracks.

Plus, they can break down complex problems and find solutions, which is a daily chore in business. Virgos do best in environments that are organized and structured, which allows their productivity and precision to shine.

fauxels

6. Sagittarius (November 21 – December 21)

Sagittarians may be known for their adventurous spirits and willingness to take risks. While these traits may sometimes give the sign a bad rap, they can still be very helpful in business.

That's because Sagittarians are always on the lookout for new opportunities, ranging from their personal lives to business and investments. They have the courage to step outside their comfort zones, thanks to their optimism and embrace of the unknown.

ANTONI SHKRABA production

7. Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Tauruses love stability and getting to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Given that this sign is ruled by Venus, the planet of beauty and abundance, they are drawn to wealth and luxury. But that doesn't make them haphazard business people.

Rather, Tauruses are practical and know how to make savvy financial decisions that set them up for long-term success. They're patient, too, so they tend to stay the course and follow their goals until completion.

Tiger Lily

8. Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)

Last but certainly not least is Aquarius. This sign's forward-thinking and creativity often help them find success in unexpected ways.

They're able to spot opportunities that other people might overlook, especially in fields like technology and humanitarian work. Their strength lies in their ability to think differently, challenge the status quo, and embrace new ideas.

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So, you've stopped asking "does makeup expire" and have become a pro at spotting unhealthy particles churning in your foundation. We're proud of you, but this TikTok video suggests there's two more things you're likely overlooking: your face wash and the mold that could be growing in it *insert music from Psycho.* If anything should be considered icky, it's this.

Usually we like to make a funny joke, but we've been telling our trusted cleanser we're not pleased with its sneaky potential to betray us. It's a good thing cosmetic dermatologist Courtney Allen, FNP-C is here to ease our fears! She's the founder of Canvas Skin (recently named Nashville’s top skincare center) who has over 10 years of skincare experience so her advice is one we can rely on!

Learn about why mold develops and what you can do before it makes your skin go haywire

I'm clueless. What causes mold to grow in face wash?

Tiger Lily/Pexels

We can agree face wash is meant to tackle skincare concerns like acne, dark spots, and extreme oiliness, right? Great, because it means we're confused about how mold can destroy the thing designed to help our skin. Thankfully, Allen has the answer to our burning question!
She says, "Mold can develop in face wash due to exposure to moisture, improper storage, expired preservatives, or contamination from dirty hands or water." If this made you question how you're currently storing your face wash, you're not alone!

Concerning preservatives, she said "most skincare products have preservatives to prevent microbial growth," but they're going to eventually "degrade." The only way Allen feels this is preventably is for us to "check expiration dates and replace face wash every 6-12 months (or sooner if it lacks preservatives or is organic)."

Noted, but how can I tell what the mold will look like?

Cora Pursley/Dupe Photos

We've probably seen mold growing on old fruit or food we've left uncovered in the refrigerator, but does it look the same in face wash? Allen says, "Mold in face wash may appear as discoloration (black, green, or white spots), texture changes (clumping or separation), or an unusual smell (musty or sour)."

Now that we think about it, we've used face washes in the past that looked like it was separating or had an awful smell whenever we used it. It just never occurred to us that they could've had mold in them!

The bottom line, Allen says, is "any change in consistency or scent should be a red flag!"

How would moldy face wash affect my skin?

Polina Tankilevitch/Pexels

Imagine you think you've hit the jackpot because you found face wash that was hidden behind other beauty products under your skin. Without checking the expiration date, you eagerly start using it only to experience confusion when you have an allergic reaction.
The reason your skin's unhappy is because "using a mold-contaminated face wash can lead to skin irritation, breakouts, rashes, fungal infections, or worsening of conditions like eczema, according to Allen. Why? It's all "due to exposure to harmful bacteria and fungi," she adds. Oh and if you have sensitive skin? She feels you're "especially at risk."

What should I do if I notice a problem with my face wash?

KATRIN BOLOVTSOVA/Pexels

Stop, drop and roll! Just kidding — that's not the answer in this situation. Allen's advice is a little more than a suggestion, however. "Immediately stop using it, discard the product, and sanitize the area where it was stored," she advises. But this isn't the time to get to the internal root of the problem. "Avoid trying to 'scoop out' the mold, as contamination spreads deeper than what’s visible," she mentions.

If there's a chance you're experience irritation in the wake of finding mold in your face wash, Allen doesn't think your life will never be the same. Instead, she wants you to "wash the face with a gentle cleanser and apply a soothing, fragrance-free moisturizer."

In other words, keep it simple post-exposure to mold!

Kaboompics.com/Pexels

To be on the safe side, you should always stop using beauty products if you notice they're irritating your skin. It could be that the ingredients are too harsh OR mold has secretly found its way inside your daily cleanser. But as long as you follow Allen's advice, you'll be okay!

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This Women’s History Month, celebrate strong, complex, and unforgettable female characters who challenge the status quo. These books with strong female leads span centuries and continents, offering a powerful look at resilience, rebellion, and reinvention. Whether you’re in the mood for historical heroines seeking justice, fierce detectives uncovering dangerous secrets, or contemporary women navigating love, loss, and identity, these must-reads showcase the many ways women carve their own paths — no matter the obstacles in their way. So here are all the books with strong female leads we're excited about this year!

Scroll to see all the empowering new books you should read with strong female leads in 2025!

Amazon

The Queen’s Spade by Sarah Raughley

Nineteen-year-old Sarah Bonetta Forbes, once a princess of the Egbado Clan, wants revenge against the British Crown. Stolen from her homeland and turned into royal property, she vows to destroy those responsible, starting with her own godmother, Queen Victoria. To bring down the monarchy, Sally must navigate court politics, manipulate the Queen’s inner circle, and align with a dangerous London crime lord. She even exploits the affections of Prince Albert, using him as a pawn in her deadly game. But when Queen Victoria forces her into marriage, Sally faces an impossible choice. With her freedom slipping away and her heart on the line, she must decide how much she is willing to sacrifice for vengeance.

Amazon

An Intrigue of Witches by Esme Addison

History professor Sidney Taylor is stuck shuffling papers in DC after an inconvenient discovery stalls her career. When an anonymous invitation offers a million-dollar reward to find a missing artifact in Robbinsville, North Carolina, she can’t resist — especially with a chance to visit her grandmother. Following centuries-old clues, Sidney embarks on a thrilling treasure hunt, but soon realizes she’s entangled in a dangerous conspiracy. As secret societies, ancient bloodlines, and witches come into play, she uncovers a truth that shakes her to the core. What she finds isn’t just an artifact — it’s a revelation that threatens the very foundation of America itself.

Amazon

Kinda Koreanby Joan Sung

In this powerful coming-of-age memoir, Joan Sung reflects on her Korean American identity while learning to forgive her Tiger Mom. Raised in a home shaped by intergenerational trauma, Sung bravely breaks the silence that haunts her family. With honesty and courage, she shares her journey of growing up with a mother who struggled to understand American society. As she navigates the challenges of being both Korean and American, Sung exposes the microaggressions, fetishization, and racism she faced. She connects her personal experiences with the broader issues affecting Asian American communities, exploring how the COVID pandemic brought long-standing violence and discrimination to the forefront.

Amazon

Junie by Erin Crosby Eckstine

Junie, a sixteen-year-old enslaved on Bellereine Plantation, has lived her life tending to the white master’s daughter, Violet, and grieving the death of her sister, Minnie. When guests arrive from New Orleans, bringing changes to Violet’s life, Junie’s world is turned upside down. In an act of desperation, Junie awakens Minnie’s ghost, and her sister remains tethered to the living world unless Junie can release her. With the help of Caleb, the coachman, Junie discovers hidden secrets about Bellereine. As the Civil War looms, she faces a life-altering choice about love, freedom, and the sacrifices she must make in the fight for her future.

Amazon

Fog and Fury by Rachel Howzell Hall (July 1, 2025)

After a decade with the LAPD, Sonny Rush moves to quiet Haven, California, to care for her mother and join her godfather’s PI business. Her first case finding a missing goldendoodle with a Versace collar seems harmless enough. But Figgy’s disappearance quickly leads to an unexpected reunion with her wealthy ex and a much darker mystery. When a teenage boy’s body is found on a popular trail, Sonny realizes Haven is not as idyllic as it seems. As she digs deeper, she uncovers secrets more twisted than anything she encountered in LA. A cryptic warning from a local makes one thing clear. In Haven, nothing is what it seems and finding the truth might cost Sonny everything.

Amazon

(S)Kin by Ibi Zoboi

Two teenagers connected through family secrets and ancient magic unite in Ibi Zoboi’s new novel. Fifteen-year-old Marisol is the daughter of a soucouyant, a fireball witch who must feed off the lives of others every new moon. She hoped their old traditions would be left behind when they emigrated from the islands, but her mother keeps her bound to her magical past. Brooklyn isn’t a place for witches, with its bright lights and locked doors. Seventeen-year-old Genevieve, struggling with a worsening skin condition, longs for answers about her estranged mother. When a new nanny arrives to care for her family’s twins, a hidden connection to Marisol is revealed. As the girls uncover secrets, they realize that their magic, hidden beneath their skin, may prove more destructive than they imagined.

Amazon

Cover Story by Celia Laskey (March 25, 2025)

Ali is a Hollywood publicist responsible for keeping gay celebrities in the closet, which is ironic since she is a lesbian herself. When she is assigned rising star Cara Bisset, whose breakout role is in a straight romantic blockbuster, managing Cara’s image becomes her toughest job yet. Cara is bold and unwilling to hide who she is, leading to a series of close calls. Ali is sent on a global press tour to keep her in line but instead finds herself drawn to Cara’s confidence. Still grieving the loss of her partner, Ali begins questioning the closeting system she has upheld. As Cara’s fame grows, they must decide whether to play it safe or risk everything for love.

Amazon

The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick (April 22, 2025)

Margaret Ryan has the perfect life by 1960s standards—three children, a husband, and a home in a suburban neighborhood. But when she meets Charlotte Gustafson, the newest neighbor, Margaret is pulled into a life-changing journey. She starts a book club, inviting Charlotte and two other women, Bitsy and Viv, to read The Feminine Mystique. As the women bond over the book, they begin to realize that the American dream they were sold doesn’t fulfill their deeper desires. Together, they form a strong sisterhood and unknowingly set off a feminist revolution.

Amazon

Portrait of a Feminist by Marianna Marlowe

In Portrait of a Feminist, Peruvian American feminist Marianna Marlowe shares her journey from childhood in California, Peru, and Ecuador to adulthood as an academic, wife, and mother. Through braided memories, she explores the development of her feminist identity and the influence of patriarchy in her life. Marlowe examines the challenges of growing up in a family shaped by cultural and religious differences, confronting issues like misogyny, unequal marriages, and class structures. With insightful writing, she reflects on how feminism has shaped her and raises critical questions about its future evolution and relevance in today’s world.

Amazon

Isola by Allegra Goodman

Marguerite’s life of privilege is shattered when she is orphaned, and her guardian squanders her inheritance. Forced to accompany him on an expedition to New France, their journey takes a tragic turn. Marguerite is accused of betrayal, brutally punished, and abandoned on a remote island. Stripped of her former life and surrounded by harsh elements, she must rely on her inner strength and a newfound faith to survive. As the island is blanketed in ice, Marguerite’s fight for survival becomes a testament to resilience and defiance. Isola is a captivating historical epic inspired by the real-life struggles of a sixteenth-century heroine, Marguerite de La Rocque.

Amazon

The Widow’s Webby Susan Moore

When tech mogul Brad Jones is found drowned off the Marin coast, his death is ruled a suicide. But his wife, Dr. Anna Jones, a renowned cyber-psychologist, suspects foul play. Driven by grief and doubt, she begins to investigate Brad’s past, uncovering secrets that lead her into the world of Silicon Valley’s elite. As Anna digs deeper, she crosses paths with Scott and Kristy Lyle, powerful figures with high-level connections. The more Anna uncovers, the more she realizes Brad’s death is linked to a dark secret that powerful people will kill to protect. Caught between truth and danger, Anna must decide if she will risk everything to expose the deadly forces at play.

Amazon

Shooting Stars Above by Patricia Leavy

Tess Lee is a world-famous novelist whose books inspire people to believe in hope, yet she struggles to find own happiness. Jack Miller is a federal agent working in counterterrorism, scarred by years of violence and dedication to his job. When Tess and Jack meet, their connection is instant, but old wounds soon resurface. Jack struggles with the loss of a loved one, and Tess faces her painful childhood. As they struggle with their pasts, they must decide if unconditional love can heal their invisible scars and help them find light after years of darkness.

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