CV MEETUPS

interview  JORGE PEREZCHICA

Meet Dazy Smith, founder of CV Meetups and Dazy’s Designs. If you have attended any of Dazy’s coordinated events throughout the Coachella Valley, they are like the “Avengers” assemble of local pop-ups showcasing their best flex. From fresh baked desserts to homemade ice cream, from BBQ grilling to specialty drinks, from fashion and accessories to arts and crafts — the list goes on. For attendees, it is a great chance to meet and greet, and see what local small business owners have been dreaming up lately. For entrepreneurs, the occasion offers a space to network and engage like-minded individuals in the community and grow your brand beyond social media.

Hi Dazy, tell us more about yourself.
Hi! Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share with readers a little bit about myself and what I do. As you know, I’m Dazy Smith, I am the founder of Coachella Valley Meetups, Dazy’s Designs, and participate in local entrepreneurial groups. My mission is to help local businesses and entrepreneurs by providing markets for networking and business growth. I provide many tools that are necessary to get started such as product photo shoots, social media exposure, marketing and business support groups. We can all flourish together! In my off time, I have the privilege of raising two beautiful children and making memories with my family.

Was modeling something you always wanted to do?
Modeling was always a hobby of mine. My true passion is coordinating events and creating art. I love building backdrops, designing events, and decorating. You can find some of my designs and sets at @dazys_designs on Instagram.

Who are some of your favorite local creatives you discovered on social media?
There are many hidden gems I have discovered through Instagram. Angela (@anggaitan) is a genuine local blogger that covers relatable issues. She radiates confidence and is a professional boss babe. I enjoy working with her and seeing where her journey goes. Another amazing creative to keep an eye out for is Andrew Cabral (@andrewcabral_photography). He has a spectacular way of capturing his subjects and is very easy to work with. Everyone loves his positive energy and feedback. There are many creatives I have met and cherish every one.

What are the most important lessons you learned over the years from artist to modeling and business owner?
One of the most important lessons I have learned over the years is to surround yourself with positive, like minded individuals. I appreciate being around people who lift each other up and celebrate each other’s successes. I enjoy seeing businesses start off at CVMeetups and grow their business. If I can connect two businesses together to collaborate and see them flourish, then I know I did my job! I love hearing all the successes of vendors and models and appreciate the acknowledgment of how it started at the Coachella Valley Meetups events.

In the last two years, the pandemic has disrupted businesses, set new challenges and opened new opportunities. How has life changed for you?
During this pandemic, one challenge for me was adjusting to the new way people were working remotely and the limited access to in-person interactions. I realized that I am not a 9-5 kind of person and I took the leap of faith by committing to Coachella Valley Meetups full time. As a social butterfly, it was difficult being confined in a house without in-person interactions. Modeling came to a halt and I relied on a part-time job. This pandemic opened my eyes, that nothing is permanent. I felt the strong desire to go after my goals and dreams and not wait for things to happen. There will always be risk in anything you do in life – I’m glad I took the risk! I am happier working for myself doing what I love and feel so lucky to have the opportunity to continue chasing my dreams.

From your personal experience, what advice can you share with us?
We are living in unprecedented times where it’s easy to be worried about the uncertainty of what the future will hold in all aspects of your life. Try to focus on what brings you joy, always work on your goals/dreams, and appreciate everything!

Where do you see yourself going in the next 5-10 years?
In the next 5-10 years I would like to expand CVMeetups by finding a home base where creatives will have a permanent place to host pop-ups, photo shoots, and events. I will be expanding my business by taking on larger themed events in the future so keep an eye out for that coming soon!

Anything else you would like to add?
Come out and enjoy one of our many CVMeetups events posted at @cvmeetups. See ya there!

social media: @CVMEETUPS  @dazyydazyy