Meet Yaima | Live fashion illustrator

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

Hi Yaima, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Launching my own business was a creative endeavor and a practical one at the same time. I’ve always appreciated fashion and illustration because of its beauty in encapsulating one’s essence through flow and movement. But it was not until I interacted with people at live events and noticed the joy on their faces when they were illustrated that I understood it could be much more: a passion and later an experience, even a service.

I set out to build an elegant and interactive piece of art that encapsulated fashion and human connection so that brands and clients would appreciate it. That is where the concept of live fashion sketching was born. I had spotted a gap in the event industry for tailored, personalized custom experiences that went beyond mere entertainment.

With that, I began developing my brand image: offering onsite fashion sketching through high-end presentation, event logo cards, and an overall luxury aesthetic that complemented the opulent venues I aimed to work in. The business expanded seamlessly through referrals and partnerships with incredible brands.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I studied graphic design formally, but my passion for drawing started long before that, since childhood, I was always sketching my friends and capturing moments from everyday life, whether at school or during family gatherings. Those early experiences were my first introduction to how art can connect people, tell stories, and celebrate individuality.

While studying design helped me develop essential techniques and refine my style, the real growth came from practicing consistently and learning on the job. Live fashion sketching, creating quick portraits in real time, has pushed me to hone my skills under pressure, balancing speed with detail and personality. This unique format also sets me apart, as it’s not just about the finished drawing, but the experience and connection I build with each guest during the process.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that creativity thrives when paired with professionalism and clear communication. Building trust with clients and delivering consistent quality has been key to growing a sustainable business.

Above all, I want the world to know that my brand is about more than just art, it’s about creating meaningful, personalized experiences. Each sketch is a celebration of style, personality, and momentary connection. I’m proud to bring fashion illustration out of the sketchbook and into live events where guests feel seen and inspired.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I’d start the morning with breakfast at Tinta y Café in Coral Gables, it’s this cozy spot that’s even been mentioned by Michelin, and you really get a taste of my Cuban roots there. Then I’d take my friend out for some paddleboarding at Oleta River State Park, we’d paddle across Biscayne Bay over to Raccoon Island, it’s such a fun little adventure.

After working up an appetite, lunch would be at Motek in Aventura Mall, their food is always fresh and tasty. Then, it’s beach time! My favorite spot is near the Faena Hotel, perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

Later, we’d head home to freshen up before heading out for the night. For drinks, I love starting at Maiz y Agave, great vibe and awesome cocktails. Dinner would be at Zucca.

And to finish the night, I’d take my friend to El Tucán, this amazing Latin dance spot where the music and energy just pull you in. It’s the perfect way to end a great day.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There’s definitely a large group of people who have impacted my journey, but I’d like to recognize my husband first. He has always stood behind my creative pursuits, even when they seemed unorthodox. His unwavering belief in me gave me the courage to take risks, trust my talents, and persevere, especially during the moments when the business side of art felt overwhelming.

I’d also like to spotlight the women in business and the creative industries who’ve influenced me, those who have mentored me, shared honest conversations, or led by example. Watching women build meaningful and resonant brands gave me the confidence to pursue my passion without hesitation. I’m especially grateful for Gissi Jimenez, whose inspiration and advice have meant so much, and Holly Nicholson, whose work and YouTube tutorials were incredibly influential and helpful in shaping my journey.

Most importantly, I want to thank the brands and clients who believed in me early on and invited me to bring my art into their events. Being part of experiences like DIOR’s grand opening at Brickell City Center, sketching live for guests, has been a true honor, one that I will always cherish.
There are so many people who’ve supported me along the way, and that spirit of gratitude is something I carry with me to every single event I sketch at.

Website: https://www.yaimaillustrations.com

Instagram: @yaimaillustrations

Image Credits
Diana Zapata