We had the good fortune of connecting with Johnnie Winston III and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Johnnie, can you tell us more about your background and the role it’s played in shaping who you are today?
I’m originally from Jersey City, New Jersey. My parents separated in 1995 and my mom took my sister and I to South Carolina. Going from the city life to the southern life took some adjusting, but I believe it helped for the better. If I stayed in NJ I’m uncertain if my current career path would be the same. When the environment changes so do you. I wholeheartedly believe having the southern influence impacted the southern and well mannered gentleman the world get to see today.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business Exclusive Designs is unique in its own form because we are a full service event planning and catering company known as a one stop shop. It allows clients to deal with just one vendor instead of having to go through multiple people just to get things done. I’m most proud and excited that on July 11th of this year I will celebrate 18 years of being in business. The road to success wasn’t easy there were several bumps in road, but faith was my guide and I was determined to break any stereotype. It took me a while to find the right team and having people that are just as passionate about your business as you are is very important. Now we can comfortably do more than 3 events in one day due to the vast amount of staff. I want the world to know that no matter where you are from your dreams are still valid. Never give up on what you want no matter how long it takes to achieve it. My original career path was to be a defensive attorney and then a judge, but God had other plans. Now I’m a successful event designer and master chef.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
One of the favorite spots in the city is my house. My friends love to come enjoy some of my gourmet cuisines and definitely some of my famous cocktails the Caribbean punch and Hennessy Margarita. Outside of my house we’d go to Midtown bowling, Cascade Skating Rink, STK for nice ambience with great food. Then we’d bar hop on Edgewood which is our party district from Harold’s Chicken and Ice Bar to Fin & Feathers to Cafe Circa, and more.

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?
My shoutout is dedicated to my family. They’ve pushed me, supported me, motivated me when times I wanted to give up. Having a strong support system is vital to achieving success. Most importantly all thanks and praises to the most high without God I am nothing, with him I am everything.

Website: Www.jwexclusivedesigns.com

Instagram: Jwexclusivedesigns

Twitter: Jwexclusive

Facebook: Www.Facebook.com/exclusivedesignsjw

Image Credits
323Creativedesigns Jecor_photo

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