Today we’d like to introduce you to Glórious Felicity
Hi Glórious, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey started at CU Boulder, where I studied environmental design. From a young age, I’ve always been an artist—whether it was pencil sketches, colorful drawings, or abstract geometric designs. It was there that I learned a range of skills, including 3D modeling, Photoshop, Illustrator, and various fabrication techniques like laser cutting and 3D printing. These were the foundational tools that really opened up my creative potential.
After graduating, I worked at a general contracting firm as a construction associate. While I learned a lot in that role, I realized I wanted to do something more aligned with my passion for design and creativity. That’s when I returned to CU Boulder to teach graphic design, technology, and fabrication. I was able to share the very same skills I had learned as a student with a new generation of creatives. This was incredibly fulfilling for me and helped me grow both as a designer and as a mentor.
In 2022, I joined the ballroom scene, and that’s where things really started to take an unexpected turn. The creativity in ballroom fashion and hand-designed effects completely fascinated me—everything from one of a kind gloves to sickening vogue accessories. The first time I walked a category, I designed a glove that was this ethereal, forest fairy-inspired piece adorned with rhinestones, nails, and petals in soft baby blues. That night, I won my first grand prize! It was an exhilarating moment and the spark that ignited my desire to keep creating these unique, personal designs for myself and my ballroom house siblings.
A lot of this growth as a designer came from my house mother, Soleil, who really helped me hone my craft. With her guidance, I started thinking more seriously about my work and how to turn it into a business. As a business owner herself, she helped me understand that the possibilities in design were limitless and that I could bring my creative ideas to life in so many different fields.
In 2024, I officially launched my LLC, “Glorious Designs.” That shift from doing favors for friends to fulfilling orders marked a pivotal moment in my journey. It wasn’t just about creating for fun anymore—it was about providing high-quality, personalized creations that had a real impact. As I took on more projects, from trophies for ballroom events to custom vinyl designs for garments and accessories like earrings and necklaces, my skills grew and my creative possibilities expanded.
Now, Glorious Designs has a tangible presence in the community. I’ve been fortunate to work on various projects, including creating trophies for ballroom competitions and fundraising galas. It’s been an amazing experience to see my childhood love for abstract geometry translated into tangible works of art that live in the homes of grand prize winners across Colorado.
It’s been a journey of self-discovery, growth, and creativity. Each project brings new lessons and challenges, and I’m excited to continue evolving, creating, and sharing my work with others. Glorious Designs is truly a reflection of my passion, my journey, and my commitment to bringing artistry into every corner of the world.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
No, it definitely has not been a smooth road. Being a queer Arab, born and raised in the Middle East, was a unique challenge in itself. I grew up in a culture where there were rigid expectations around gender expression, and where creativity was often stifled by traditional norms. For example, there were clear lines—pink was for girls, blue was for boys—and I wanted to rebel against that by including all the colors in my designs. But I found that expressing myself, my creativity, and my true identity wasn’t always welcomed or understood.
The culture I grew up in didn’t leave much room for entrepreneurship or creative expression. The societal expectation was that I would either pursue engineering or medicine. Those were the paths that seemed most respected, most secure. I was actually accepted into the American University of Sharjah for interior design, but my father—who came from a place of wanting the best for me—asked me to give it up. He told me I wouldn’t have a future in that field, and he didn’t believe that design could be a lucrative or respected career. As encouraging as my father was of my siblings and I developing skills and engaging in different hobbies, he didn’t want any of his children pursuing a creative field because it was seen as impractical, even though that’s what I was deeply passionate about.
That mindset stayed with me for years, even as I pursued my education and career. I didn’t start my business until 2024 because, for so long, I didn’t think that my hobbies, my art, and my creativity could be a real source of income. I believed the internalized thoughts that told me that pursuing a career in design or art wasn’t a viable option. I felt like I was constantly battling these doubts, trying to reconcile my love for creativity with the pressure to pursue a more traditional path.
It took years to shake off that mindset, but in the end, it was my own journey of self-discovery that helped me realize that creativity and artistry could be a career. When I launched Glorious Designs, it was the culmination of overcoming those internalized barriers, and proving to myself that I could carve my own path, one that wasn’t dictated by the limitations I’d been taught growing up. It was liberating and empowering to finally embrace my passion and turn it into something real.
Now, I’m proud to say that Glorious Designs represents not just my artistry, but the freedom to express who I truly am—without limits, and without the fear of being judged.
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?
With Glorious Designs, I specialize in laser cutting and 3D printing, which allow me to bring intricate, personalized creations to life. I’m passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with these technologies. I take pride in creating high-quality, one-of-a-kind pieces that not only serve a functional purpose but also capture the essence of creativity and individuality.
One of the things I’m most proud of is the reaction I get from people who win my trophies. Knowing that they’re competing for one of my works, and that my designs become a part of their cherished memories, is incredibly fulfilling. It’s not just about the physical object—it’s about the emotions and the stories behind those moments of triumph. There’s something so rewarding about knowing my creations hold such significance to others.
What sets me apart is that I don’t put limits on what’s possible. I truly believe that the sky’s the limit when it comes to creativity. I’ve always been known as “the creative one,” and I’ve carried that identity with me through every phase of my life. Now, as Glorious Designs continues to grow, I’m more committed than ever to making sure my work reflects the uniqueness and limitless potential of my imagination.
My designs are G.L.O.R.I.O.U.S.—they are bold, they are unconventional, and they refuse to follow the standard norms. I take pride in offering something that stands apart from what others are doing, both in terms of design and the experiences I create for my clients. The growing recognition of Glorious Designs and the way people respond to my work only reinforces my belief that there’s a space for creativity without boundaries, and that’s something I will always stand by.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
First and foremost, there’s Soleil—my chosen mother and the mother of the Kiki House of Felicity. Soleil saw my potential when I didn’t even see it myself. She’s the logical, goal-driven voice who has been my guiding light throughout my ballroom journey and my entrepreneurial path. Soleil is the one who always tells me that the impossible is achievable, and she was the one reassuring me that I could bring my dream to life. She’s my “Jiminy Cricket,” always helping me stay grounded while pushing me to reach new heights. Her mentorship has been invaluable, and I’m endlessly grateful for the way she’s helped me grow, not just as an entrepreneur or business owner, but as a person.
Then there’s the Kiki House of Felicity, my ballroom family. This group has been incredibly supportive, filled with creatives who constantly challenge my own artistic vision. Their unique ideas and requests for effects to help them walk balls push me to expand my boundaries and elevate my work. As their older sibling, I feel a responsibility to make sure their looks are always on point—and now, with Glorious Designs, I can confidently say they will be. The House’s support has fueled my drive to keep creating, and they’ve played a huge part in the evolution of my business.
I can’t forget about Corazon Felicity, my heart, who has stood beside me through starting my business and seeing me grow. Corazon and I have been together a few months before Glorious Designs was realized. They are the gentle wind in my back guiding me forward, the calming voice of reason. They are one of the most creative and artistic people I know, and their love and support of who I am and who I aspire to be is one of my greats blessings.
I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention my mom. She’s an artist in her own right—she’s a poet, and she dabbles in so many different forms of art, from knitting to crocheting to calligraphy. I truly believe my creative spirit comes from her. One of my earliest memories is when I was seven years old, and she gave me a needle, thread, and beads to create bracelets and necklaces for her and my sisters. That moment sparked something in me. My mom has always been my first audience—whether it was showing her my drawings or hanging my paintings at home, she’s always supported me with love and constructive feedback. She taught me that art is not just about creating but about sharing it with others and making something meaningful out of what you have.
These people have shaped me into the artist, designer, and business owner I am today. They’ve been my cheerleaders, my mentors, and my sounding boards, and I am forever grateful for their support and belief in me.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gloriousdesigns.llc?igsh=MXBvaDJpeDI0cWUxag==
- Other: https://linktr.ee/GloriousDesigns















