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

Hi Anik, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Risk taking is essential to business owners; Launching out to earn your own living, going on a limb in hope that your product or service will be a success, and will make a difference in people’s lives, it’s pretty scary. Some people thrive on taking risks. I think I do. Personally and professionally. But that’s only because at my core I feel confident that even if the project fails, I will not fail as a person. My faith in God gives me confidence that I am being held by something greater than myself. Taking risks has been fun, it has stretched me, grown me and given me wings.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
When I became a floral & event designer, it truly was a jump into the unknown as far as running a business. I learned a lot working with other companies, but nothing prepares you quite like making the jump to become a business owner. It really isn’t for everyone. It takes courage and dedication and truly trust. I have to say I went through many challenges, but thanks mostly to my faith, and the help of those around me, I overcame and kept going. Truly, it is about being authentic to yourself. I am a servant at heart, so I love to pour my heart out into what I do and serve others well. The hospitality & design part of my work comes easy. The challenge has been not giving away too much of myself. I truly care about my clients, and want to serve their dreams, but I had to find a balance and not sell myself short.

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?
Goodness, honestly with this year, I am not sure any more, lol. I have to say I love both the outdoors and the city life and dining. So especially if it is in the fall, or spring, I would go for a day drive through the North Georgia Mountains. It is so relaxing. I would stop at a few wineries and definitely have lunch or dinner on the terrace at Montaluce Winery in Dahlonega. In Atlanta, I would visit the History Center. It is absolutely phenomenal! After a day visiting, stop in at the St Regis in their wine room. I like exotic foods and international flavors. 10degrees South for dinner is a must. Take a stroll through the quaint square of Downtown Roswell , stop into Crazy Love Coffee house for a Belgium Waffle, and go shopping in the afternoon in Avalon. Have dinner at any of their restaurants! and have a late night drink at Cafe Intermezzo. I would spend a day in town through the old Fourth Ward. It’s very vibrant with energy outdoors, restaurants and shops on the beltline. I’ve always enjoyed Virginia Highlands and brunch at Murphy’s.  I like finding holes in the wall eateries. Simple but usually full of flavor. The last one was a barbeque place in White GA, in middle of the country. I was spending a weekend up at Barnsley Resort for work. Now if you like horseback riding, you can ride through the beautiful property, their gardens and historic Manor Ruins. It is definitely worth it. Their chefs are excellent, the flavors wonderful at all their restaurants. Try the Rice House. I love small town feels so I love going apple picking and driving up the Jasper through back roads. On the way, stop in at Ball Ground, at the German store, they have the best German sausage around, lol.

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?
Yes, absolutely! Actually, I just am re-naming my brand the Anik Collective, because though I may be the owner or the creative lead, I realize that my success in business and life is a collective result of so many people and factors! Every aspect of the events I participate in, from the creation of the perfect bouquet to the conceptualization of my client’s dream wedding, requires team work! Since the start of my business, I have always collaborated with countless people. My family, parents, neighbors, friends and other business owners have been essential to my success! I like to say it is the secret sauce of life….Community! My life is so much richer because of those around me who have loved me, sacrificed their time and resources to support me and I try to live my life so others benefit also. This is part of the secret sauce of happy living to me! So many deserve credit!! Who do I choose? Professionally, I will say Glori of Glorious Moments photography , has always been such a source of encouragement and inspiration for many years. She truly is a joy. Then my pastors, Daniel and Anna Latshaw. They have been a rock for the past 10 years. Truly loving unconditionally above and beyond.

Website: www.anik.co
Instagram: @anik_flowers
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anik-keuller-8381416

Image Credits
Glorious Moments Photography

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