Meet Aundrea Smiley | Educator, Wellness Advocate & Owner of Valor & Grace Literacy Cove

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

Hi Aundrea, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I wanted to have the flexibility to do what I love, on my own terms. I wanted to do something that not many others in my area are doing, and that is bring supplemental education and social/emotional wellness together. I wanted to create a place and a space for children (my clients) to work to their highest potential and be uplifted and inspired by doing so.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
In order to get where I am professionally I had to overcome fear. I had to put myself out there, and trust that I could do what I loved on a daily basis- the exact way that I wanted to do it. It was not easy, there were days of doubt , and moments where the drive dwindled. However , I know that there is no joy like the joy that comes from serving these families, this community and the educational needs of our children. I want the world to know that my brand, valor and grace- is done with the greatest confidence and the most calm grace. I will always strive to educate, uplift and inspire.

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?
In this small town, theres not many places to go. I would be sure we went for lunch at Blue Creek Cove, dinner at Cooper’s Landing, and stopped for a sweet treat at the Cottage Barn. You didn’t shop in Clarksville, unless you run to two of my favorite spots- Hite’s and Sweet Violet. Drinks at the brewery are always fun, and some time lakefront- and on the lake if we are lucky.

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?
There is absolutely no way I could do this alone!! Thankful to God for putting this mission on my heart, and equipping me to keep moving forward with every step! To my family, for the support of this dream of mine, to my college professors who believe in me to continue to educate on this different platform. To colleagues and friends, who support me in so many ways. To my team of tutors, designers and volunteers that make this all possible. Last but not least, to my clients- my students and my parents, your success and the joy of working with you each and every week is the reason I do what I do!!

Everyone, here’s to you!!

Website: www.valorandgrace.net

Instagram: @valorandgrace.lit.cove

Facebook: Valor & Grace Literacy Cove

Image Credits
Headshot: Lauren Thaxton- Lauren Carter Photography Facility Photos: Brittanny Williams- Photos by Brittanny