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

Hi Summer, what are you inspired by?
Both of my parent inspire me tremendously. They equally have passion for their careers and have always had strong family values. I’ve had a pleasure to be raised by two people who are committed to their personal growth still in their later years – which has inspired me to be a continuous student of life.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been a chameleon my whole career. My degree and background is in communications and fashion merchandising. From an early age, I’ve known I have always been a brand enthusiast and it came easy to me to find the connection between a company and it’s consumer. I felt a direct hit from Covid professionally because the role of my positions were customer facing particularly. At the time I was heavily discourage, but know I’m thankful for the slow period that allowed me to look at my skills less specific to a role or industry, but more of intangible assets that I can bring anywhere. This was a game changer for me! After relocating from NY to Atlanta post-Covid, I have been able to surround myself with a professional community that has propelled me to take on opportunities that are not only fruitful monetarily, but align with my passion of being a “connecter’.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Atlanta, we would start at the beltline for an early afternoon walk, then head to Inman park to restaurant hop between Barcelona and Del Bar. I am a huge fan Mediterranean and Spanish cuisine. For the evenings, I would plan an intimate speakeasy experience like Stereo or Jojo’s Beloved were we can catch up over elevated cocktails. Because I am active, I would sign them up for one of my hot mat pilates classes.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/summermahand/ 

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