Q: Tell me a little about yourself
A: I always find this to be the most difficult question to answer. I am a mixture of contradictions. An extroverted introvert, a cautious risk-taker, a type-A creative… the list goes on. Mostly, I like to think that I’m a cheerful and curious woman that loves her family, her friends, and her clients.

Q: What do you think is the most significant barrier to female leadership?
A: The female brain. I think, as women, it can be hard to establish our place in leadership. We often are our own biggest barrier — lacking the confidence it takes to stand up for ourselves and the amazing, unique qualities and perspectives we bring to the table. It can be hard to break through that mindset and find our voice. On another note, it’s phenomenal to see companies and corporations placing an emphasis on female leadership and working with woman-owned businesses. Kudos to them!

Q: What have you learned about leadership, entrepreneurship, and mentoring others?
A: Here are some highlights from the past few years:
I am fully capable of stepping, and staying, outside of my comfort zone. What a revelation!
The people, mentors, and creative partners I surround myself with are invaluable. I owe them everything
The best kinds of leaders are the ones who take what they’ve learned/achieved/observed and give it back, whenever possible

Q: How and why did you become an entrepreneur? Was it something you always intended for you yourself?
A: I can vividly remember saying, “I would NEVER start my own business. It’s too risky”. However, I always knew that I wanted to be in a leadership role. Taking the leap was a mixture of wanting to have more control and higher standards for the work that I was producing, combined with a [fleeting] moment of fearlessness…

Q: As a mentor to us all, what is one piece of advice that you would give to readers?
A: My greatest piece of advice is to always believe in yourself and know your worth. And if you find that hard to do, surround yourself with people who will believe in you, for you. Oh, and always, always encourage, uplift, and celebrate other women. We’re all in this together.

Q: Tell me about yourself
A: Creative, dedicated, and kind I’ve always been on the quiet side. Never quite the center of attention, always listening to others, and trying my best to make people smile. I’m an introvert who has now found a love for building relationships with new connections, traveling to new places, and accepting new challenges that I never thought I would be taking on. My craft drives me to learn and try more, and the values instilled in me by my loving family guide me daily.

Q: Define a great leader. What are some traits you think great leaders posses?
A: I believe a great leader is someone who has the following traits: the ability to listen, the ability to see potential in individuals and opportunities, and the ability to work hard. By listening to their team, a great leader can identify strengths and weaknesses, as well as note client and potential customer needs and goals. By keeping an eye on the future, a great leader can lead and guide their team to the best possible outcomes while avoiding pitfalls and errors. Lastly, by working hard, they set a strong example for their team, inspiring each individual to do their best as well.

Q: How and why did you become an entrepreneur? Is it something you always intended for yourself?
A: I always knew I wanted to work in the arts. I’ve loved drawing since I was very small, and have studied art and music at ETSU. While learning these creative skills, I didn’t foresee that my path would lead me to become an entrepreneur. With the guidance of key mentors and colleagues, I realized that to bring my full potential to my clients, and myself, I would need to build a company to support my values, artistic direction, and future goals.

Q: What advice would you give young women that want to succeed in the workplace?
A: Never stop learning. If you can add new skills to your arsenal, learn about them and put them into practice. If you want to expand into a new department or field that you have interest in, find a mentor and ask all the questions. Read as much as you can, about your field of work and others that interest you. The more that you learn the more that you have to offer, and the stronger a person you become.

Q: How do you push through your worst times
A: It is no secret that the life of an entrepreneur can be challenging. During these tough times, I believe that keeping your sights locked on the following things are key: Your blessings in life. Being thankful for the things that are going well, the people that support you, and the accomplishments you’ve achieved. That, and remaining focused on the original goal, which in my case is to do great work with, and for, great people. With a heart of thankfulness and a focused mind, you can push through challenges that may arise.

Q: As a mentor to us all, what is one piece of advice you would give to readers?
A: Work as hard as you can toward your goal, then make time to rest. By balancing your work life with personal time to physically and mentally rest, spend with loved ones, and pursue personal interests, you stay fresh and motivated. This is what will make the difference in your long-term career.