Meet Ariana Detrez | Founder of Second

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ariana Detrez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ariana, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk is never easy, but neither is feeling stuck.

For so long, I believed success meant keeping up with everything going on in life without missing a beat. But after becoming a mom, I realized balance wasn’t just something nice to have. It was necessary.

Like so many moms, I found myself constantly giving to everyone else and rarely taking a second for myself. I wanted a space where moms could breathe, connect, and feel seen in the middle of the chaos. That’s where Second was born. A newsletter for moms who just need a moment. A second cup of coffee, a second to catch their breath, a second to remember who they are outside of all the titles they hold.

Starting Second felt like a risk because it meant putting my voice out there in a real way. But I’ve learned that the biggest risks aren’t always about quitting jobs or making drastic changes. Sometimes, they’re about choosing to create something meaningful even when you’re unsure where it will lead.

For any mom wondering if she has time for herself, her passions, or the things that light her up, I promise you that you do. And sometimes, all it takes is a second.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My career has been anything but linear, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve worn many creative hats and each role has shaped the way I approach my work today. What sets me apart is my ability to blend design with strategy, creating thoughtful, engaging experiences that connect with people on a deeper level.

One of the things I’m most proud of is launching Second, a newsletter for moms who just need a moment to breathe, reset, and feel seen. Motherhood changed everything for me, including the way I view work, creativity, and balance. I realized so many moms, myself included, needed a space that felt like a deep exhale, a place where they could pause and feel connected to a community that truly understands them.

Getting here wasn’t easy. I’ve faced self-doubt, career pivots, and the challenge of figuring out how to make space for both my ambitions and my personal life. But I’ve learned that success isn’t about doing it all…it’s about doing what feels right and sustainable for you.

I want the world to know that Second isn’t just another newsletter. It’s a love letter to moms who are trying to hold onto themselves while showing up for everyone else. It’s a reminder that you don’t have to do it alone. And most of all, it’s proof that even in the busiest seasons, you deserve a second for yourself.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My go-to places to take my friends and family when they visit are Optimist Hall, venturing out to Boone to Blowing Rock, trying a Cider flight from Red Clay, checking out the farmers market on Kings Drive or Atherton, and visiting 2nd & Charles bookstore and the Goodwill boutique in LoSo

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
All of the people that have supported me throughout—especially that moms that feel comfortable sharing their stories and kind words on how Second impacts them.

Website: https://takeyoursecond.beehiiv.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/takeyoursecond

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aryvfi/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@aridetrez

Image Credits
For the maternity photos, credit @soulstory_photography