We had the good fortune of connecting with Andrelle Wilson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Andrelle, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I enjoy commemorating life’s moments – from planning a friend’s birthday celebration to decorating for a loved one’s baby shower. There is an excitement within me that awakens the desire to take charge in order to ensure special days are celebrated well. After transitioning out of the military, I was left with the uncertainty of what my “next” would be. I chose to build on that ever growing desire to “create” meaningful moments. And in the passion of those moments, Andy’s Treasures, LLC came into fruition.
What should our readers know about your business?
Since starting Andy’s Treasures, I’ve been most excited about entrepreneurship itself. I have grown so much from that very first request to “hand-make” a tutu, to coordinating my first wedding. My love for creating moments for my clients is something I will forever treasure.
I take great pride in creating memorable moments for my clients and in this season of revamping my business, I am looking forward to broadening my scope of entrepreneurship. There’s so much impact in that one word – so much to unfold!
I want to offer an internship program that will allow those who desire a “hands-on” training opportunity to work alongside me. Through this internship, there will be opportunities to gain experience by coordinating an event – start to finish. Throughout this internship, I will share other skills that have helped me to remain successful in my business field.
Reaching this level of success in business was no easy feat and required a total mindset change. I had to understand that I could no longer see myself as a mere employee but as a business owner. Andy’s Treasures needed my undivided attention. After much prayer and getting advice from my mom, my mindset had to mirror the thought of entrepreneurship because I could no longer allow my business to manage me but I had to manage my business. I had to shift my focus towards the realization that a 9-5 would not give me the freedom I desired to do what I loved most.
Running a business can be difficult and definitely has its challenges. My mom invested a lot into my business but everything I profited was used to sustain/run the business. In the beginning, most of the events were funded out of my pocket. I know this wasn’t a good business decision but I had to learn. Some of us have to hit that wall first before the light comes on! I have learned to discipline myself and forced myself to not overspend my budget. Budgeting was the most difficult part for me. I simply wanted everything to be perfect, even if it cost me!
The most important lesson that I have learned throughout my entrepreneurial journey has been the power of PRAYER and delegation. I cannot do ANYTHING without God nor without the help of others. Some people genuinely want to help and I’ve learned to accept it. And as my business continues to grow, I know I am going to need help! Needing help is not a sign of weakness but is actually a sign of wisdom. We all need help at times
Andy’s Treasures is a lifestyle! Try us out – you may be surprised by what comes out of the treasure box. The unpredictability of what my brand will create, while celebrating your special moment, is what excites me. I guarantee creativity and awesome customer service. Simply over-the-top quality events. This has been and will continue to be what sets me apart from others.
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.
Douglas, GA is a small quaint town with a few delicate key spots that offers fine dining and entertainment. I would definitely introduce and encourage any visitors to embrace this “southern hometown experience” by visiting the downtown historic area for shopping at the local boutiques and for brunch at J&D Cafè. We would definitely encourage a stop by Paulk’s Vineyard for one of their hosted events or for a glass of wine in one of their sophisticated tasting rooms. I definitely can’t leave out a visit to my church home – FaithONE17.
One of the joys of living in Douglas has been the closeness of my family and friends! Hosting mini events on the lake in my backyard is often the main highlight of my time in the area – it’s what I do best!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost, this journey would not be possible without God. My honor to Him for entrusting me to uphold the gift He has given me, is a constant reminder of why I do what I do.
My mom is my driving force. She has been my gift from God to lead and guide me through anything I come up against! She’s my “Person!”
Also, my loved ones who act as my support system demonstrates, motivates, and encourages me daily to excel beyond my personal limitations and for that I am truly blessed!
Website: Andystreasuresllc.com
Instagram: @andystreasuresllc
Facebook: Andy’s Treasures LLC
Awesome article! I happen to know Andrelle and she’s done so work for us! She creates the wow factor in everything she does! I will never forget my daughter’s baby shower; we walked into the decorated venue and we were spellbound! It was a Wow moment of breathtaking view!! Definitely the one to call!