“Female creatives are overlooked and undervalued, especially in corporate. And it can be extremely lonely, especially as a freelancer,” Courtlyn Jones, a graphic designer and visual artist, shares.

Jones is also the CEO and founder of The Design Database which she created out of a personal need. The Design Database is the leading online community and job platform exclusively catered to female creatives who want to connect with like-minded individuals and ultimately create their dream careers.

Prior to creating The Design Database, Jones had experienced her share of toxicity in the creative industry as a woman. Three different professional experiences added up and pointed Jones toward something else. One was landing her first real full-time designer job and hating it. Then, she was laid off from that job due to COVID-19. Afterward, she landed a job at her “dream company” as a graphic designer, but this wasn’t what she thought it would be. “I ended up absolutely hating that job, too.”

Read More About Courtlyn Jones and Creating a Life of Her Own Design

Take me to Courtlyn’s Moondust Article.

About Startup Stories

Startup Stories is a photography project by women in business for women in business! We are a fierce team on a mission to ensure fellow female bosses shine bright and get the visibility they deserve. Audrey Tappan of Hued and Angela Acosta of Angela Atelier are on a mission to capture the essence of 100 kick-ass entrepreneurs through their lenses to create a visual feast of empowerment and success.

Ally Berthiaume, of The Write Place, Right Time writes their article for Moondust Magazine, featured by Carina Dietz, boosting visibility and credibility.

This project is not just about photos; it’s about building a community where we lift each other. A shout out goes to Melanie Cunningham of Melanie Cunningham Law, for her strategic advice and we move along this path.

About Angela Acosta & the Atelier

Based in New Jersey, Angela Acosta specializes in personal branding and portrait photography for women business owners and professionals in New York and the tri-state area. She expertly channels brand narratives through tailored images, offering insights on wardrobe and styling to ensure authenticity. With a deep commitment to capturing the essence of each client, Angela transforms branding with impactful photographs that resonate and inspire. Contact us to schedule your complimentary consultation.