28 and Unapologetically Me, A Letter to My 18-Year-Old Self 💌

Today I turn 28. And instead of writing a traditional “birthday post,” I wanted to write a love letter...to the girl who started it all.

At 18, I walked into York University’s & Sheridan College's join graphic design program with big dreams, a little self-doubt, and no idea just how wild and meaningful this journey would be. I thought I’d be designing logos and building brands… but what I really did was design a life. A business. A legacy.

This letter is for her—and maybe, for you too, if you’ve ever wondered if all the late nights, risks, and unknowns are worth it.

Spoiler alert: they are.

Dear 18-Year-Old Me,

You’re standing at the edge of something new, nervous, excited, and trying to act like you’ve got it all figured out. York’s graphic design program isn't your "dream" school, but you're excited to embark on a new adventure. While you think you know where this road might take you, let me be the first to say: you have no idea just how powerful you are, and how wildly beautiful this journey is going to be.

Right now, you're pulling all-nighters in the studios, learning software from scratch, and wondering if all this hustle is going to pay off. It will. Every late night, every critique that made you doubt your talent, every group project that tested your patience, it’s shaping you into a creative force that one day will lead a multi-six-figure creative agency, working with women all over the world to bring their visions to life.

I see you, running from one job to another, trying to maintain a high GPA, juggle a social life, and squeeze in side clients to build your portfolio. You’re doing everything you can to make it. Just don’t forget to slow down and actually live. These years go by in a blink. You deserve to enjoy them too.

But here's what I want you to really hear:

Keep going. Even when it feels like no one sees your vision. Especially then. Your resilience will become your superpower. Say yes to connection. That person in your typography class, the professor you’re nervous to approach, the creative meetup you don’t want to go to alone, those moments will open doors you never saw coming. Networking isn’t about being the smartest, most impressive one in the room. It’s about being present, learning, collaborating and growing.

You’ll meet people who are only meant to stay for a season, but their presence will serve a purpose. Some will challenge you, some will inspire you, you may deal with some friendship break-ups, but every single experience will shape you. They’ll teach you to trust yourself more, to set boundaries, and to recognize your worth. Let them go with gratitude, but never forget what they gave you: strength.

I know you’re driven, you give your all, even in that low-paying job where it feels like no one’s watching. But trust me, it’s worth it. Don’t ever underestimate how brilliant you are. Trust your gut, say yes to the opportunities, accept the promotions, take the raise. You’ve earned every bit of it.

One day, you’ll lead a team. You’ll serve over 250+ clients. You’ll build a business rooted in impact, authenticity, and purpose. And you’ll do it entirely on your own terms.

So hold your head high when you walk into that first lecture. Soak it all in. You’re not just learning design, you’re learning how to design a life.

You’re going to be proud. And I’m already proud of you.

Keep going. Keep creating. Keep being you.

Love,

Your 28-Year-Old Self Founder. Creative Director. Future Self.

To Anyone Reading This...

Whether you're 18 or 38, just starting out or deep in the grind, this is your reminder that you are not behind. You are building something that has never been done before. And the fact that you’re still showing up, still trying, still daring to dream? That’s enough.

The late nights are worth it.The “no’s” will lead to better “yeses.”And the real magic happens when you stop chasing validation and start trusting yourself.

Here’s to 28. Here’s to every version of me who got me here.

And here’s to you—for doing the damn thing, even when it’s hard.

If this resonated with you and you're in a season of building, pivoting, or dreaming bigger, we should talk. Whether you're ready to work with our agency to bring your vision to life or you just want to hop on a casual coffee chat to connect and brainstorm, we’d love to hear from you.

Let’s build something bold together.Authentic. Impactful. Unapologetically you.

xo

Alessya Baggetta