Pivoting with Passion: Emy Dyer’s Path to Multi-Brand Success

Client Story

Nov 6

Let’s talk about the multi-hyphenate energy that is Emy Dyer. In the latest Daring Made episode, I sat down with Emy—a graphic and web designer, fashion entrepreneur, and mom of two—who somehow juggles multiple businesses while keeping her values front and center. Her journey isn’t just about running a successful clothing line or design agency; it’s about staying authentic, embracing the chaos, and showing up fiercely, no matter what.

From Corporate Life to Creative Freedom

Emy’s story starts like a lot of ours—doing what she was “supposed” to do. She graduated from the Art Institute of Phoenix and landed a stable corporate job in Seattle. It was the dream on paper: the “big girl job,” the steady paycheck, the kind of job we think we need to make it in the world.

But something was off.

"I was doing what I was supposed to do, but it just didn’t feel right," Emy says. "I wanted more freedom, more creativity."

The corporate grind didn’t scratch that creative itch, so she started side hustling. Emy launched an Etsy store and put her designs on anything she could—a tee, a mug, whatever. And get this, in just a few months, she matched her corporate salary. It was a lightbulb moment, and one that sparked a major leap of faith.

Leaving a stable job to pursue her own thing wasn’t easy, but it was exactly what she needed. For anyone out there feeling the same—take this as your sign. Sometimes, success starts by betting on yourself and going for it.

The Birth of Emy Ave: Turning Passion into a Thriving Business

When Emy left corporate life, she didn’t just coast on her Etsy success. She expanded. She dreamed bigger. That’s how Emy Ave Boutique was born—a brand known for its unique graphics and comfy, stylish pieces. It was more than just clothes; it was about creating something that reflected who she was.

Emy’s success with Emy Ave wasn’t just a result of her creative talent; it was because she knew her audience, and she stayed true to her vision. Her boutique grew because it wasn’t about following trends or fitting in—it was about creating something she genuinely loved.

"When I create, I’m thinking about what I love, what I’d wear, and what makes me feel good. That’s what I want for my customers too," Emy shares.

Knowing your audience means knowing yourself, and authenticity in business is what draws people in. Emy’s customers connect with her brand because it’s real, and that’s what keeps them coming back.

Embracing Multi-Passionate Entrepreneurship

If there’s one thing Emy embodies, it’s multi-passionate entrepreneurship. She’s running Emy Ave Boutique, co-owning Dyer Inc., a printing company she founded with her husband, AND has her own graphic and web design business. She’s got her hands in a lot of pots, but it all works because she knows how to manage her time and energy.

"It’s easy to get overwhelmed when you’re passionate about so many things. The trick is knowing where to focus your energy and when to ask for help," she advises.

For Emy, success isn’t about being a one-woman show. It’s about staying intentional, knowing when to delegate, and focusing on what matters most.

The Reality Behind the Success: Overcoming Challenges

Emy’s journey may look incredible, but it hasn’t always been smooth. From financial struggles to the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship, she’s faced her fair share of obstacles. A real turning point came when she started working with my husband, Mike, on her finances.

"Partnering with Mike was game-changing. He helped me understand the financial side of my business in a way I never had before."

With Mike’s guidance, Emy streamlined her operations, cut down costs, and found more balance between work and family. This led to the creation of Dyer Inc., which helped her get a grip on production costs for her boutique. It wasn’t glamorous, but it was exactly what she needed to make it all work.

And let’s talk about imposter syndrome for a minute. It’s something Emy has been real about—especially as she expanded into new ventures. She faced those doubts head-on, reminding herself of the value she brings and focusing on the positive feedback she got from clients.

"I used to worry so much about whether I was ‘good enough.’ But I’ve learned that people come to me because they love what I do. That’s what matters," she says.

Authenticity in Business: The Foundation of Success

If there’s one theme that keeps popping up with Emy, it’s authenticity in business. Staying real about what she loves, what she’s passionate about, and being transparent with her audience—that’s what has fueled her success. She admits that there have been times when industry trends made her question herself, but keeping her focus on her values is what made the difference.

"When you’re authentic, it shows. People can tell when you’re passionate about what you’re doing, and that’s what makes them want to support you."

Her advice? Stick with what feels true, even when everyone else is going left. Your authenticity will draw in the people who really connect with your brand.

The Role of Graphic and Web Design in Building a Brand

One of Emy’s superpowers is her design skill. We know graphic and web design can make or break a brand, and Emy has used her expertise not just for her own ventures but to help others create a powerful online presence.

Through her design agency, Emy offers branding that reflects her clients’ identities. It’s about more than just making something look pretty; it’s about telling a story and building trust.

"Design is so much more than aesthetics. It’s about telling a story and building trust with your audience. Whether it’s through a logo, website, or packaging, everything should reflect who you are as a brand."

For anyone starting out, Emy emphasizes investing in your brand identity early. A solid design strategy can set the tone, build credibility, and help customers recognize what makes you, you.

Looking Ahead: Education and Empowerment

Emy isn’t stopping anytime soon. She’s on a mission to help other entrepreneurs step into their potential, which is why she’s creating Merch 101—a course that’s all about building profitable merchandise brands. It’s her way of giving back and helping others learn from her journey.

"I want to help others avoid the mistakes I made and give them the confidence to build something they love."

Final Thoughts: Embrace Your Multi-Passionate Path

Emy Dyer’s business journey is a testament to the power of authenticity in business. She didn’t just follow the script; she wrote her own, embracing every challenge and opportunity with open arms. From Etsy to boutique fashion, from graphic design to printing—she’s done it all on her terms.

Her story is a reminder that success isn’t about following one straight line. It’s about embracing the chaos, trusting your intuition, and building something that reflects who you are. Strategic partnerships, killer design skills, and the courage to juggle all those passions—that’s what sets Emy apart.

For more of Emy’s journey, follow her on Instagram @itsemydyer or check out Emy Ave Boutique and Dyer Inc. Whether you need inspiration, bold designs, or a peek into multi-passionate entrepreneurship, Emy’s story is one that proves staying true to yourself is always the right move.