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

Hi Anna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
We all have more than one thing going on in our lives besides our business. I don’t believe there is such a thing as complete balance where you spend an equal amount of time in each area of your life – but rather being intentional with the time you have in each area – being fully present when you’re with your family, and not checking emails at the same time. Being deeply focused during work time and not distracted by the laundry or other personal responsibilities. Each area has a time and place. It might not be balanced if you were to put it on a scale – but it ends up feeling like harmony.

After experiencing major burnout in both my professional and personal life over and over again, it caused me to simplify how I was approaching everything and implemented big changes that led to the systems and lifestyle that I strive for today.

What should our readers know about your business?
For the last 10 years, I have built a business as an entrepreneur in the makeup industry focused on the wedding space. It went from a solo act to a team of 10 makeup and hair stylists serving West Georgia and East Alabama. Learning how to be a leader, having an amazing client experience, managing multiple events, schedules and keeping your lane narrow were all challenges I continue to learn and grow from. I am so proud of our team and most excited about our full wedding year! I used to dream of being able to do a couple weddings per year – now we are fully booked!

In April of 2021, my husband and I had the opportunity to go into business with our friends, Lacey & Tyler Rouzee and, as fate would have it, – we decided to franchise and open Tropical Joes Juice & Smoothie Bar in Bremen, GA! The building we purchased was built in the 60’s, a former auto repair shop and gas station that had been abandoned for years and was in terrible shape! From April to August 19, 2021, we spent every spare minute renovating, getting equipment, training, hiring, setting up systems, figuring things out we had never done before and doing all the necessary things needed to get up and running! Timelines were pushed, unexpected setbacks happened – but on August 19, 2021 – we opened the doors and were ready for business! Our first day was a screaming success. It was DEFINATELY not easy! During this process we have kids to think about and are still working our other full time jobs. All I can say is we took things one day at a time, We have so much thanks and gratitude towards our family and friends who helped!

What sets both businesses apart is a unique set of skills and experiences we each bring to the table in trying to make it the best it can be!

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?
The Battery and taking in a Braves game is a MUST! I could spend all week there haha!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My dad, for the example of a successful business owner and instilling the value of hard work and problem solving. My mom for teaching me that if you never stop learning you can do anything and showing me the value of faith. My amazing husband of 10 years who’s constant support, even through failures, has kept me grounded and moving forward – we now have the pleasure ( and sometimes displeasure haha!) of working together! Our two beautiful children who teach us more than we teach them. My friends who challenge me and keep things fun. Business partners and team members who have taken the risks and work along side me. For every “YES” and every “NO” from vendors, customers, clients and investors.

Thank you to content creators who share their wisdom on platforms for us all to learn from like Shoutout Atlanta!

Website: www.velvethammerartistry.com

Instagram: @tropicaljoesbremen @velvethammerartistry

Facebook: Bremen Tropical Joes & Velvet Hammer Artistry

Image Credits
All professional Images by Caitlyn Weathers & Linda Threadgill

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