Every year, the best of the best from the Arizona Nightlife Biz come together to support one another in the crowning of new victors in the wide array of categories. Here, AZFoothills got to chat with one of the winners, AJ Colores of Colores Media, on the event, winning an award, and the future of Arizona nightlife.
What did you think of the AZNIA awards this year?
I thought it was great!! Lots of love in the building...great to see everyone in in one place to support each other. Or just to see if we were going to win...either way.
Were you surprised about your award? Have you won other AZNIA awards in the past?
I was surprised! I took my family to the award show and I was talking a lot of smack about the speech I would give, and this and that. But then when I won I was really truly humbled and shocked. I've never really won anything I'll always come in 2nd 3rd.. or 4th.. Haha
Were there any other winners that surprised you?
I was surprised I did not win Best Photographer! But I know that was a very competitive category. Everyone who was nominated was deserving so I was just happy to be there. I know a few other people that were deserving of other awards too but I won't name names.
You won for Best Graphic Design firm for a nightlife award, what does that mean?
That I'm awesome, haha. Well honestly, it means a lot to me.. Recreate Media and SLE are both so good at what they do. So for me, someone who never went to school, this award means so much. I feel truly validated and that I can now say I am a Professional Graphic Designer. And I'm so grateful to have a following of people who truly care about what I create!
What do you think about the AZ nightlife? Any favorite place that is your go-to?
It's work! But definitely cool. Anywhere where this is a live DJ, active dance floor, and some sort of performance. Barsmith, The Mint, Axis, WildKnight, Smashbox, El Hefe, Casey Moores, School of Rock, and Party Foul was cool while it lasted.
What would like to see new or improved in the AZ nightlife scene?
More everything! Shows, DJ's...Beautiful people. More photographers taking pictures and putting them online, More video people... Something awesome to do every night of the week. We have such potential here in Arizona...and a lot going for us already in the nightlife scene. But that's not enough, we need to be a destination, like Los angeles, Miami, New York...or even...Ibiza. Haha.
Any plans for your future as for as nightlife goes? Any plans for Colores Media?
Yeah, I want to open a club that has the best sound, live shows, and attendance. And surely it would have amazing (award winning) media, day in and day out. (So hurry, someone give me a bunch of money so I can do that. Thanks). And for Colores Media...the world. We have a new office in Los Angeles, and hopefully I will be able to continue living my dream life...putting together great media for the world and being known as a successful Digital Artist who hails from Phoenix, Arizona!
Final Statement: You need to follow me on twitter...@AJColores
