We had the good fortune of connecting with Shanda (ShowCaseShanda) Reed and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Shanda (ShowCaseShanda), why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued and artistic and creative career, because I felt like it fits me as a person. I am not the type of person that likes to be “Put inside the box,” My creative mindset is always evolving and thinking outside the box so I knew I needed a career that will allow me to do the same, Having a restricted career, impacts my growth personally and professionally. I Feel like I am always a person who tries to improve things any way I can, and if I do not have that creative space to do so, i will not be motivated for success and progression. My creative career helps me in many ways, it is my passion, my therapy, my escape, and so much more. I encourage everyone to find the type of career that fits them, because then it won’t be just a job, it will truly be something they love to do.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
As a licensed stylist and cosmetology instructor, I have developed a creative career pathway for myself. We live in such a creative world, where there are so many creative and talented people, and I am grateful that I can be considered one of them. All of my career, I have always been told how creative I was, how informative I was, how I have growing hands, and how versatile I am. I feel like having all of these things sets me a part from others. I have always been told ” Shanda so many people can do hair, but you actually can do it and care for it,” These are the same statements I continue to hear today about myself. For the longest time I struggled in the industry with finding my Niche. It wasn’t until a few months ago I realized I found my niche. It was the ability to provide versatile trendy services while treating and maintaining hair, This is how i have gained and still continue to gain the clientele I have, This business is just more to me and it shows in my work. People leave my chair with an experience not just a finished product, Whether I am styling hair for fashion shows. photoshoots, weddings or regular hair care appointments, people leave my chair educated, Some of the lessons I learned along the way of my journey are to stick to what I believe in, trust god and my gut, and believe in myself. I let fear prolong me from doing so many things in my life, and I will never do that again, I am a small town girl who has recently relocated to an exciting new city and I am ready to thrive and bring my experience to you, Currently servicing clients in Delaware and Atlanta as well as other surrounding areas Salon DouxLuxe is prepared to make its mark on the world, Along with my Co Owner, Partners, and Collaborators, a legacy is in the making!

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
As I recently stated I am new to the area, so I still am experiencing new things here myself. If anyone were to travel here of course I would encourage them to check out major tourist attractions downtown like the Georgia Aquarium, World Of Coca Cola, Sweet Auburn Street, And all civil rights attractions. I like to follow different pages on Instagram like ATL Scoop that keep me up to date with different festivals and events that are going on. Some of the dine in places I have enjoyed are Houstons, Grits & Eggs, and Blue Martini. Some of the after-work spots I have enjoyed are Sivas, Wing Factory, Barber Bistro, and Café Circa. I also like going to the Putshack, Silverspotmovie theatre, Bowlero and taking my family to other kid friendly places around the city. I have already been involved with numerous fashion shows since I have been here which has allowed me to see the city as well. The networking and connections with people have been nothing short of amazing and have helped me build my name in this area.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to begin my shoutout with thanking god for the endless people and opportunities he has and still is putting in my life. To my family, friends, boyfriend, you guys have been my rocks, thank you all for keeping me levelheaded and together. To all my mentors, motherly and fatherly figures. Thank you for the push, I always had a constant battle with fear, but you all were good at making me push through my limits, you all seen the success before I seen it in myself. To anyone I have ever collaborated with, I am honored to have ever done any project that I have done with you all and will continue to be ready for the next when you call. To my clients, this success could not have happened without you. Those near and far, you all have been a part of the brands in some way, and I will forever appreciate that. To My son, thank you for being the heart and motivation that I need to exist every day and keep striving for success. I pray I will build up and empire that will leave generational wealth I can pass down to you my king, Lastly, Thank you Shoutout magazine. This is the first of I hope many magazines that I can be a part of. I am so honored, and I will cherish this opportunity for a lifetime. Continue to impact others’ lives just as you have done mine. THANK YOU!

Website: www.starleinc.com

Instagram: showcaseshanda

Other: Booking Site: vagaro.com/salondouxluxe

Image Credits
A.P. Photography mcphoto

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.