Conversations with Chelsea Olivo Benefield

Today we’d like to introduce you to Chelsea Olivo Benefield

Hi Chelsea, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
In 2013, my first child was born. I wanted to dress my daughter in the cute clothes I saw online, but I couldn’t afford them. So, I taught myself how to sew to make the clothes I envisioned for her.

Some people online saw my creations and asked if they could buy them, which led me to start selling baby quilts/blankets and plush llamas on Etsy. I continued posting my work online, and a few years later, a company inside the Opry Mills Mall (in Nashville, Tennessee) reached out to me, asking to sell my items in their store.

By 2014, I decided I wanted to design my own fabric for my collections. I bought a Wacom tablet and began teaching myself how to draw and design. During my daughter’s naps, I would watch countless “how-to” videos to learn the skills needed to become a designer. Eventually, another company reached out to me, expressing interest in selling my fabric designs to their customers. That was such an exciting moment for me. I started freelancing that same year.

In 2020, one of the companies I work for sold products featuring my designs to Target Online. I was so excited that I practically cried when it happened.

Most of what I know is from being self-taught. I’ve consistently invested in my businesses and myself, eventually going back to college at the University of Michigan to earn a degree in Graphic Design – where I am the Graphic Designer for Qua (student-run literary and fine arts magazine). My goal for now, is to continue freelancing for other companies and growing as a designer so I can be the best I can be for them. My dream is to illustrate children’s books one day.

I currently have work featured on company logos, branding, stickers, fabric, notebooks, t-shirts, greeting cards, mugs, bags and more. It has been an amazing eleven years, and my children and husband continue to be the motivation behind everything I do. If you can dream it, it’s a possibility.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
I’m not sure if a smooth road truly exists. Being almost entirely self-taught has brought its fair share of challenges, but I’m fortunate to have an incredible support system. My husband, Zach, has stood by every crazy entrepreneurial idea I’ve pursued, and I feel so blessed to have his unwavering support.

Overcoming obstacles is such a rewarding experience, and I constantly remind myself to keep pushing forward. By now, I’ve realized that being a habitual learner is a big part of who I am, so I tend to embrace and even enjoy the challenges that come my way.

As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am an illustrator specializing in surface pattern design, with the added skill of sewing. I create designs that are featured on fabric, notebooks, stickers, mugs, t-shirts, and more. I was perhaps best known for my (now retired) plush Lavish Llamas and baby quilts/blankets. Of all my creations, the ones I’ve made for my children are the pieces I’m most proud of. I hope these tangible treasures can one day be passed down as heirlooms.

Professionally, one of my proudest accomplishments this year is having a greeting card sold on Minted.

What has been the most important lesson you’ve learned along your journey?
“Comparison is the thief of joy”, so I try to stay in my own lane. There will always be someone ten steps ahead and someone ten steps behind. My goal is to focus on my own path and always keep my family as my top priority.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Www.chelseaillustrator.com
• Instagram: https://Instagram.com/chelseaillustrator