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

Hi Sandy, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Life has always shown me that necessity breeds innovation. My business, Sandy Marie Consulting, was born out of the necessity to file applications to the Department of State and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order for me to start my non-profit organization. The paperwork and application process was challenging even though I was an Administrative Assistant at the time. I did enlist the help of an consultant however I could only afford but so much of her expertise and so I had to figure the rest out. I experienced much trial and error until I eventually understood the process. Once people saw that I was able to navigate the complicated process and maintain it others noticed and asked me to help them with their non-profit applications.

The same with my travel agency ShellebrityEXP Travel. My sister and business partner always planned trips for our friends and family. I always had a love of travel since I was a child. Both my parents were from the Caribbean so taking tropical vacations became second nature to me. As an adult, I kept traveling and helping others because they just didn’t know where to begin and which beaches in the Caribbean was the best. As a result we decided to pursue our passion and start our own travel agency specializing in accessible travel and tropical vacations.

What should our readers know about your business?
As a service provider, I offer a unique services in that I consult with individuals who are social entrepreneurs and want to start their own non-profit organization. I listen to their ideas and motivations and create a plan for them to start the journey. I offer a very personal service. There are options online where you can file the applications to do this yourself however it’s not personal…it’s all online. So if you have a concern or need extra assistance you would not have a hands on consultant like myself to work through any issues. Also, as one who loves travel, I also am a travel advisor. I curate personal and business experiences for my clients as if it were for myself. I love to research hotels, cities and resorts to see the offerings in other cities and countries.

My business is built on referrals, so I make sure to over deliver, so I always have new clients coming my way. I also enjoy what I do so I’m passionate about my clients passions and their endeavors.

Nothing is ever easy so I just continue to do the work, stay in tune with industry trends and evolve so I always have a service to offer my clients. As I consult with previous and new clients, I am evolving and sharing my growth with new offerings. I’ve learned over the years that you cannot please everyone especially when you have boundaries. I’m learning that every entrepreneur needs boundaries for their business.

Sandy Marie Consulting continues to unfold and offers personal service which seems like a lost art.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take any visitor to The Continent Restaurant. The atmosphere gives sexy lounge, the food is great and the chef is cute! I would also do brunch over at WR Social House. This is a cute and cozy spot that has great salads and appetizers. Another fun spot for good food and music is iLounge. This restaurant offers indoor & outside seating, a DJ (on certain days), great food and a wall for fun photo ops!! You can’t get any better than that.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has always been an encouragement & inspiration to me during all seasons and phases of my life and business. My family encompasses my friends, family and church family. They support me and act as my cheerleaders especially while navigating sickness and life events.

Website: SandyMarie.Org

Instagram: @SandyMarie_Consulting

Facebook: Let’s Start Your Nonprofit Organization (private group)

Other: ShellebrityEXP.com

Image Credits
Red Carpet Shelley

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