Today we’d like to introduce you to Brianne Fanning.
Hi Brianne, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Growing up, I planned to go to college, get a degree, and then find a job and work there… well, if not forever, then at least a long time! You know, the more “traditional” life path. I’ve always relied on structure and organization, so this route didn’t bother me one bit. At first, this is exactly how everything went.
I graduated from BYU with a degree in Geography and got a job in my hometown in New Mexico, doing issues management and technical writing. Writing is something I’ve loved to do my whole life, so I really enjoyed that aspect of my job. While working, I pursued my graduate degree in Geographic Information Systems, intending to get a job in that field. However, after only a couple of years in this type of working environment, I could already feel burnout. I wasn’t even halfway through my twenties! At that point, I knew I needed a change.
I quit my job, and moved to Florida with my sister, with the goal of starting my own freelance writing business. For me, this was totally out of character. I like stability, and this was a leap of faith that had a high possibility of failure. But it was something I needed to do. Fortunately, when I left my job, I was offered a casual remote position with the same group, making the plunge of pursuing a freelance writing career a little less daunting—and less risky.
In Florida, I grew my writing business (Pen Credible), and it was a wonderful experience. I had the opportunity to work and network with individuals and companies across a variety of industries that I never would have otherwise. I expanded both my creative and technical writing skills and reached out of my comfort zone to develop other new skills. The flexibility of my work was such a blessing. I literally got to work on the beach when I wanted to!
Though Florida was the right move for me at the time, I missed the mountains. Because of my work’s flexibility, making the decision to move to Utah was easy. Here, I continued writing, all while exploring the beautiful outdoors of Utah—from hiking to snowboarding to rock climbing.
In addition to writing, I started to expand other aspects of my creativity by experimenting with alcohol ink and resin art. As a new mom, this was also a great way to get some much-needed “me” time. In 2020, I opened my Etsy shop (Whimtastical Wonders) to share my work. I’ve loved every minute—even the hard ones.
It’s been a crazy but wonderful journey. And I’m so blessed that throughout it all, I’ve had the constant support of my family and friends. I may not be doing anything related to my undergrad and graduate degrees, but I can positively say I’m doing what I love and have gained the confidence to pursue other dreams as they come!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
In general, I’d say the road has been rather smooth. I have been incredibly fortunate to have the most supportive family, friends, and even coworkers in my life, cheering me on every step of the way or picking me up when I stumble.
Some days are of course harder than others. There are always learning curves when starting new adventures! I have had my share of naysayers—who basically said I’d need to get a “real job” eventually—but I think that fueled my desire to succeed rather than discourage my progress.
For me, my biggest obstacle has probably been my shy personality and natural desire to stay in my comfort zone. My personality hasn’t changed, but over the years, I’ve recognized that doing things that are hard for us usually leads to something great—even if it’s uncomfortable at the time.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I think both of my businesses would fall in the creative category.
As a freelance writer, I work with a variety of individuals and businesses across very different industries—including property management, real estate, photography, eco fashion, fitness, social media, non-profits, and more. What I love most about this kind of work is the flexibility and diversity of writing for different clients.
For some, I have a full creative license. For others, I strive to convey the company’s tone through my writing. And for others, I follow a more technical approach, like when developing user guides, policies, procedures, and manuals. It’s fun to stretch my abilities and expand my skill set.
Flexibility is also something I enjoy about my work as an alcohol ink and resin artist. Alcohol ink is an unpredictable medium that can be both frustrating and fun. No two paintings ever turn out the same! When I first started, I mostly focused on creating whimsical wall décor, but have since moved on to making bookmarks, coasters, ornaments, and jewelry.
In contrast to my writing, my artwork is a way to fully express my personality and creativity. I love vibrant colors and whimsical designs and always try to share that in my work. My favorite pieces to make are bookmarks—combining colorful art with my lifelong love of reading!
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
I would define success as being happy in what you are doing and in life.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.whimtasticalwonders.etsy.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whimtasticalwonders/
