Today we’d like to introduce you to Amber Holt
Hi Amber, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Hello, I’m Amber Holt but many also know me as Amb Holt. I love the arts, fashion, public policy and all things Christian faith based. My sense of arts and fashion first developed at the age of four. As the youngest child with a significant age gap between my older siblings, many days I played alone and was left to my own imagination for entertainment. I would sketch cartoon characters displaying different styles based on their personalities and work. Years later, I progressed to Barbie dolls, and collected more than I could keep count. I styled each of them and designed their clothing from towels, socks and scarves. I continued to advance the older I became from Barbies to fashion model influencers like Tyra Banks, Naomi Campbell, and Cindy Crawford. My favorite luxury inspirations were Prada, Gucci, and Versace. I studied the art of outfits on the runway, and paid close attention to how statement pieces and designs were paired with essentials for a styled look. My fascination of expression through fashion and arts grew more and more, until I decided to pursue businesses in image consulting, custom designs, jewelry, photography, creative directing and artwork in 2020. Each business is built on other endeavors I’m involved in, challenging my creative ability to new levels. I view my work as masterpieces, and myself as the master of each piece I produce.
My creative inspiration comes from everything I do, including public policy, faith, and my passion to impact and thrive. In addition to my businesses, I recently received my master’s degree in Public Policy and Administration, and graduate certificate in Local Government Management from the University of Missouri St. Louis. I was blessed to be awarded the Robert J. Baer Endowed Fellowship in Public Policy Administration in 2023 and recently inducted into Pi Alpha Alpha, an international honors society recognizing excellence in graduate school for public affairs.
Over the past year, I’ve worked with UMSL’s Research and Economic and Community Development office, which exposed me to the many opportunities available for communities to come together, receive resources and succeed.
I’ve furthered my network in involving myself with the St. Louis chapter of the National Women’s Political Caucus, which aims to increase women’s participation in the political process as well as the number of women in elected and appointed positions. For the past year, I’ve served on the policy council and endorsement committees.
I’ve also become a member of Missouri Women Leading Government administration, advancing the role of women and helping them succeed in the public sector.
In 2023, I was selected to take part in FWRDSociety’s inaugural cohort program, FASHNXT, a six-month program geared toward helping designers, stylists, photographers and others grow their small businesses.
All of my endeavors have contributed to my businesses in businesses in image consulting, custom designs, jewelry, photography, creative directing and artwork. There’s more overlap than one would initially believe. My goal is to simultaneously pursue each endeavor piece by piece with effective collaboration.
Of course I can’t take all the credit for the creativity God produces through me. It is Him I give thanks to for blessing me with my creative talents. I also give credit to my father who was and is my greatest inspiration to pursue my businesses, as he was also a multi-business owner. He taught me the importance of showing up for myself with confidence, individuality and style. He told me these words which I abide by and serve as my motto for all my businesses, “When you look good, you feel good, and when you feel good you do good.” As my father and pastor, he motivated me and instilled in me that I could do anything I put my mind to. Sadly he passed in 2013, but I still hold the values he rooted in me close to my heart. My inner strength comes from God and my father. I aim to honor him and his legacy in each of my entrepreneurial endeavors. Before I leave this earth I will utilize every gift God deposited within me, and allow Him to multiply and bless everything I put my hands to.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
What great success story doesn’t have challenges? None right?! I’ve learned that the journey is equally important as the destination. Though I’m still striving to reach success, I accept my journey as God’s plan for my life and business endeavors, whether it’s a dry season or season of fruitful harvest. I’ve experienced slow seasons, especially during COVID, but thanks be unto God, He still provided. This is where my spiritual faith taps in the most concerning obstacles I face because I included God in my business plan. He is the author and finisher of my faith and plans, and my Jehovah Jireh – My Provider.
My favorite scripture pertaining to my business is Proverbs 16:3. It states, “Commit your works to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” NIV. This verse reminds me of the importance of entrusting my actions and efforts to God in my businesses. When I commit my work to Him, I acknowledge God is in control and that I rely on His guidance and wisdom above my own. When I do this, my plans are successful, not necessarily because of my own efforts, but because they align with God’s will. Countless times I’ve prayed for God to intervene in my businesses and He’s showed up and showed out for me in miraculous ways like only He could.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
In all Godfidence, the first thing that differentiates me from other brands is my distinct and unique purpose and path ordained by God. Through my ministry, I’ve discovered who I am and what I can offer the world as gifts. My creativity brings signature styles, pieces and visions to life. I offer aesthetic masterpieces that are timeless, multigenerational, inclusive, and socially impressive. My thematic approach meets the eye.
I offer my professional experience with tailored services based on individual client needs, preferences and personal brands.
I also offer innovative packages that combines two or more of my services from image consulting, creative directing, photography, custom designing, custom jewelry, and artwork.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
In entrepreneurship, you have to be confident. You have to communicate with others to receive the help you need. I was raised that a close mouth don’t get fed, and ever since I learned the power of that statement, I’ve advocated for myself and others.
I’m a witness that utilizing your voice works. I also believe that no man is an island, and neither are businesses. Collaboration is necessary in business, especially in the startup phase, and mentors can help tremendously. Don’t be afraid to reach out to someone you admire, they just might take you under their wing and show you the way to success.
And lastly, have faith and courage in your vision. You have to first believe in yourself before you expect anyone else to. When ministering to the people of God concerning faith, I often preach, “You have to see it before you see it! And when you have faith to believe, you will receive!” I apply this motivation to everything in life as life itself is a faith walk. These have all worked for me and hope it helps someone else.
Pricing:
- $100-$5,000 – for Photography Services
- $125-$2,000 – for Image Consulting Services
- $50-$500 – for Custom Clothing Design Additions Services
- $250-$1,200 – for Artwork
- $30-$400 – for Custom Beads and Bracelet Sets
- $65 – $400 – for Additional Motivational and Talent Services
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.ambthevisionary.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ambvisionarygroup
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/tjytoPtuQKBqeKaj/?mibextid=LQQJ4d
