Briana Spence

Owner of Spence Studios, 29

Briana Spence has an eye for identity. Meaning, her passion lies in helping brands and businesses define themselves through design. From logos for business cards to custom tee-shirt designs to a complete business rebrand, Spence delights in knowing her clients’ stories and turning them into tangible art. Spence has taken her craft to the streets with murals in Gulf Breeze and the iconic new Pensacola Welcome sign.

What is the accomplishment you’re most proud of?

Building Spence Studios from the ground up has been my proudest accomplishment. I’ve been able to work with incredible cities, businesses, and brands, helping them bring their visions to life through design, illustration, and branding. Seeing my work on city welcome signs, murals, and packaging, things that people interact with daily, is surreal and incredibly rewarding.

What advice would you give to young people/entrepreneurs with a similar trajectory to yours?

You don’t have to have it all figured out right away. Fake it until you make it is sometimes a great motto. Say ‘yes’ to projects that challenge you, put yourself in rooms where you can learn, and don’t be afraid to reach out to people you admire. Also, charge what you’re worth. It took me a while to understand that design isn’t just about making things pretty; it’s about solving problems and creating value.

How do you hope to make an impact within your community?

I hope to make an impact by adding value and beauty to the businesses, individuals, and communities that surround me.

What motivates you?

I’m motivated by the idea of adding beauty and value to the world through my work. Whether it’s signage that brightens up a city, a brand identity that helps a small business grow, or an illustration that invokes a memory, I want my work to be more than just visually appealing—I want it to create meaning. Art and design have the power to inspire, connect, and even transform spaces, and knowing that I can contribute to that in some way keeps me going.

What would you go back and tell newly 20-year-old you?

At 20, I was a ball of energy (that might have actually been stress) who was trying to make her way into the real world while anticipating college graduation. I would tell that 20-year-old version of me to slow down, enjoy the moment, and stop stressing about having everything figured out. The path will unfold as you go, and some of the best opportunities will come from unexpected places. Oh, and rest is just as important as the hustle, burnout doesn’t make you more successful.