Meet DeAnna Heard | Transformational Consultant

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

Hi DeAnna, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The decision to start my own consulting business stemmed from a combination of factors. Firstly, I wanted the freedom to pursue projects that truly aligned with my expertise and passions. By having my own business, I could work with clients and work on projects I believed in and could make a meaningful impact. Additionally, I saw it as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, allowing me to challenge myself in new ways and continuously learn from diverse experiences. Lastly, I recognized the potential for greater financial reward and autonomy that comes with running your own business. Overall, it was a calculated decision driven by a desire for autonomy, fulfillment, and the opportunity to create positive change

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
As business owner and founder of National Wear Your Pearls Day, I am deeply passionate about making a positive impact on mental health awareness. National Wear Your Pearls Day serves as a platform to recognize and support those silently battling depression and anxiety, offering solidarity and encouragement through the symbolic act of wearing pearls.

What sets my consulting business apart is its dual focus on driving organizational success while championing social causes. I am most proud of the intersectionality of my work, blending business and personal growth with a heartfelt commitment to mental health advocacy.

Getting to where I am today has been a journey marked by challenges, triumphs, and my own struggles with mental health. It certainly wasn’t easy, but each obstacle presented an opportunity for growth. I overcame challenges through resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from setbacks. The lessons I’ve learned along the way have been invaluable – from the importance of perseverance to the power of collaboration and community.

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?
Day 1:

Morning: Start with a delicious breakfast at The Devine Cinnamon Roll Deli, known for its mouthwatering cinnamon rolls and breakfast sandwiches.
Afternoon: Explore the historic downtown area, taking a stroll down Main Street and visiting attractions like the South Carolina State House and the Columbia Museum of Art.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Motor Supply Co. Bistro, a farm-to-table restaurant offering seasonal dishes in a trendy atmosphere.

Day 2:

Morning: Have brunch at Café Strudel, a local favorite known for their unique twists on classic brunch dishes.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon at Riverbanks Zoo and Garden, home to over 2,000 animals and beautiful botanical gardens.
Evening: Head to The Vista, a vibrant entertainment district, for dinner options

Day 3:

Morning: Take a guided tour of the Congaree National Park, a stunning natural area known for its old-growth hardwood forest and diverse wildlife.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch at The Gourmet Shop, a charming café and specialty food store offering gourmet sandwiches, salads, and pastries.
Evening: Catch a show at the Township Auditorium, a historic venue hosting concerts, Broadway productions, and other live performances.

Day 4:

Morning: Explore the South Carolina State Museum, the largest museum in the state, featuring exhibits on South Carolina’s natural history, art, and culture.
Afternoon: Have lunch at Di Prato’s, a deli and market serving up delicious sandwiches and salads.
Evening: Spend the evening at Soda City Market, a lively outdoor market featuring local vendors, artisans, food trucks, and live music.

Day 5:

Morning: Take a day trip to Lake Murray for a beautiful lake view
Afternoon: Enjoy a picnic lunch at Lake Murray Park followed by hiking or exploring Dreher Island State Park.
Evening: Have dinner at Mimsy’s Restaurant, a Ghiana restaurant with a southern flare.

This itinerary offers a mix of culinary delights, cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, and entertainment options, ensuring a memorable and fun-filled week in Columbia, SC!

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?
The decision to start my own consulting business was influenced not only by my professional aspirations but also by the support and motivation of my children. Their unwavering belief in my abilities and their encouragement to pursue my dreams gave me the determination to push forward, even when faced with the challenges of the death of my then-husband (their father). Knowing that I was setting an example for them and working towards a better future for our family fueled my drive to succeed. So, undoubtedly, my children deserve credit and recognition for being a driving force behind my decision to leap into entrepreneurship. Their belief in me was a constant reminder of the importance of perseverance and determination, and I am grateful for their support every step of the way.

Website: www.bookertagency.com

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanna-bookert-heard-mba-%F0%9F%92%9A%F0%9F%A9%B7-465b3b1b/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/deanna.bookert.heard