We had the good fortune of connecting with Cameron Herring Trucks and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cameron Herring, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Growing up, I was encouraged to find my passion in life and make it a career. This was a tall order, but I’ve always aspired to this goal. Once I realized I didn’t need to settle for one single interest, this goal felt more attainable. I grew up in a very creatively driven home, from music to cooking to art to literature. As a young girl, while visiting family in rural North Carolina, I was introduced to the thrill of finding/restoring antique furniture. That nostalgia has stayed with me and those experiences were imprinted as fun. I continue to chase that fun to this day! I started Abalone Interiors just over a year ago at the family owned and locally driven business, Kudzu Antiques+Modern. This has been a very welcoming and supportive place to start my small business. The thought process behind Abalone Interiors is to combine my love of art-making and vintage furniture to create a calming and balanced space. I graduated from SCAD ATL with a major in painting. That opportunity introduced me to many different mediums and I quickly learned I didn’t just want to be a painter. Abalone Interiors gives me the freedom to use original art, vintage furniture, handmade goods, etc. to share with you a myriad of things that I love. My hope is that the furniture and art you see in Abalone Interiors interests you and adds to your restful space, wherever that may be. The truth is, I’m new at this. I’m making mistakes. I’m learning everyday. I’m succeeding everyday, and I’m having so much fun!

What should our readers know about your business?
We all face obstacles when trying to manifest what we want. I’ve had many challenges on my path, but still, I think my biggest challenge has been myself. I’m still learning to trust myself and my instincts. Starting a business is a huge life transition. There’s nothing to hide behind. My intention is be authentic and unapologetic when it comes to my business. This is much easier said than done! We all struggle with the “brand” dilemma. When I have doubts about this dilemma I just try to remind myself that all I need to do is be who I am and the rest will fall into place. This attitude gives me so much power! I come from a family that is very successful in the music industry. It would be very easy to lean into other’s success. When I started Abalone Interiors, I really wanted something for myself. I didn’t want to use the success of others to establish my identity. Another challenge I faced was figuring out how to combine all of my loves into one business. Luckily, for me, they are all in the same vein. Adding Art-making, handmade salt bowls, feather smudgers, and vintage bohemian furniture equals Abalone Interiors. I haven’t overcome all of my challenges, but I know that with a positive disposition and trust in my instincts, I’ll get through anything that’s put in my path.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Let’s call this “The perfect day in Decatur”.. Get your morning coffee at Banjo Coffee.

Go for a walk through the square. Do you have a dog? Visit Fetch Dog Park and have a couple of beers. Grab a delicious lunch at Victory. Go bowling at Comet Pub and Lanes. Go eat oysters at my favorite restaurant, Kimball House. Finally, close your evening with a nightcap at Trackside Tavern!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I could never reduce my thank you’s to just one person. So I’ll say thank you to my husband, mom, dad, brother, mentors, friends, therapist and my dog, Poncho. Thank you for reminding me to stay authentic.

Instagram: @Abalone_Interiors

Other: Kudzu Antiques+Modern 2928 E Ponce de Leon Ave Decatur GA 30030

Image Credits
Duane Trucks

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.