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

Hi Pily, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I always knew I wanted to have my own business. I think it’s in my blood. My grandparents migrated from Spain to Venezuela, looking for new opportunities and hoping to leave the struggles of a post-war Europe behind. With a lot of hard work, planning, and execution, they were able to achieve that. My grandfather was the first one to do so, leading a very successful business, but my grandmother wasn’t far behind. She also had the entrepreneurial bug and began her venture as well. This business thrived and, years after, it even succeeded my grandfather’s. So for me, it was just in my blood, I cannot explain it. Regardless of where life takes me, I know I will always have an endeavor of my own.

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 believe the biggest challenge is to mute all the rest. Oftentimes, you encounter people that plant the seed of doubt in what you do. Whether it is done on purpose or not, that might prevent you from reaching your desired goal. I’ve learned to identify those individuals and distance myself from such, and it’s proven to be a big differentiator when it comes to creating new work.

I think I am most proud of persevering and believing in myself. I am a depression survivor. Within the past two years, I suffered a relapse that led to the staggering of certain projects. This led to frustration. Nevertheless, I focused on my artistry and kept working on my endeavors.

Believing in what I do is the most important part, but being realistic is more crucial. Have a sensible goal, make a business plan, set a budget, and follow it to the T. I’ve started partnerships that weren’t fruitful and wasted time in projects that led nowhere. It happens to everyone. Keeping that in mind is crucial. We repeat to ourselves that “the road to success is not a straight line”, but we often forget about it. Get past the hurdles while sticking to your plan.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would take them to the beach, early in the morning before it gets crowded. I’d like to relax with the sound of the waves and probably walk along the shore with them. Close to lunchtime, I would drive them to Miami Design District to grab a healthy bite at Pura Vida and probably show them a few of my favorite retail store interiors.

I would schedule a visit to the Rubell Museum to see the art selection and will probably grab a (less healthy) bite at an Italian or Asian restaurant (depending on the mood and budget). Lastly, they will have to try my favorite coffee at Casa Tua Cucina to get some energy to do a workout with me at my local box, Move Lift Live.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My mom, for always being there for me and for seeding my business. My grandparents, for setting a great example and such a foundation as well. Lola Sanchez, for believing in my artistry and giving me a professional push. Myself, for always persevering.

Website: www.pilymontiel.com

Instagram: @pily

Image Credits
© PILY LLC

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