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

Hi Claudia, alright, let’s jump in with a deep one – what’s you’re definition for success?
Having the ability to overcome any obstacles with ease. It reveals a mental strength and self-discipline needed to lead. You have a choice to be influenced by distraction and get overwhelmed or stay on track and be ready to keep up with the changing business trends.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
NeonBomb Designz is an idea that took over two decades to manifest. It started as a clothing line, but I had such a hard time staying focused that it also became costume, home decor, accessories, and whatever I felt like making at the moment. That was the key to my productivity. The more I had fun creating, the easier it became to see myself starting a business. Letting ideas take shape and form is different for everyone, but the point is to never stop working. Anything great takes time. The exciting part is finally having a clear vision in your mind about your brand and getting to work asap! But of course, knowing when to rest is just as important, you never want to burn yourself out and get discouraged.

When you make the choice to be your own boss, be ready to wear many hats.

And the whole idea behind NBD are one of a kind, comes from up-cycling other materials that would have otherwise become trash. So whether I’m making a garment, accessory, or home decor piece, that’s an original piece of art. Dressing in fast fashion is no different from hanging store bought art on your walls. I work with bright, wild colors and prints heavily influenced by the 80s and 90s. My style is for anyone looking to add some statement pieces to their wardrobe or home.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d tailor that visit to their schedule. Every part of Chicago has its hidden gem so depending on where you stay and what your budget is, plenty of bars, shows, places to eat, sleep and rock’n’roll all night! 😀

Some of my favorite spots include The Green Mill, Chicago Botanic Garden, and anywhere along the Lake.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are way too many people in my life who deserve a whole chapter explaining how and why they influenced me. Maybe I’ll write a book about it one day. Currently, I sew for Shernett Swaby and I have to admit this experience has given me my spark back. I’ve been learning so much and I’m blown away at how quickly I’ve been inspired to take a new direction that makes sense. All I can say is, I’m really excited about the future and I have lots of work to do!

Website: www.etsy.com/shop/neonbombdesignz

Instagram: neonbombdesignz

Facebook: www.facebook.com/neonbombdesignz

Image Credits
John Mourlas Photography for the profile picture.

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