Meet Brianna Chester | Visionary Architect & Marketing Catalyst

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

Hi Brianna, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
When I embarked on this journey in 2016, I was navigating the realms of both corporate life and entrepreneurship simultaneously. The hustle was real—I’d clock out of my corporate job at 5 pm, hit the gym, and then dive into Iconic Minds until the wee hours of the morning, only to repeat the cycle. My determination to build Iconic Minds was unwavering.

Fast forward a year later, I took the leap into full-time entrepreneurship. The real game-changer occurred in 2020 when I embraced motherhood. Suddenly, the hustle had to evolve into something more sustainable. The challenge was real, prompting me to seek balance between being a mother and running a business. This period underscored the paramount importance of systems.

Implementing robust systems allowed me to streamline operations, reducing the time spent on logistics and enabling me to focus more on the aspects of my business that I’m passionate about. This self-discovery not only facilitated a smoother personal and professional life but also led to a significant pivot in Iconic Minds’ culture. We began offering comprehensive done-for-you services, recognizing that, like me, many entrepreneurs needed to delegate certain aspects of their business to fully live out their dreams.

What should our readers know about your business?
With a journey that traces back to my middle school days, my passion for marketing and design has been a guiding force throughout my life. From my early role in the promotions team during grad school to crafting flyers and customized artwork for social media platforms like Bebo and Myspace, my creativity has always been at the forefront. This drive to promote and engage continued as I became a DJ on the university radio, held positions in national Public Relations organizations, and served on the Publicity Committee for the NAACP.

My commitment to making an impact grew as I interned with United Way of Etowah County, successfully raising $67k for their Success by 6 Program. Community campaigns with organizations like the American Red Cross and FEMA further solidified my dedication to driving change through marketing. Moving to Dallas led me to a role as a client service manager, social media manager, and photographer liaison for a prominent magazine. Guiding businesses in Dallas and Houston to strategically target their audiences became a hallmark of my work, unveiling the untapped potential of effective marketing.

As a visionary architect, I hold a steadfast belief in the transformative power of passionate dreaming. Backed by a decade of marketing expertise, my journey of crafting innovative concepts and cultivating impactful brands began in my undergraduate years. I have forged my purpose through a myriad of roles that have refined my skills.

I stand as a seasoned marketing catalyst and a recognized international keynote speaker, boasting a decade of experience. I empower serial entrepreneurs to craft impactful brands by delivering potent marketing solutions, specializing in business development and custom apparel. My international acclaim as a speaker and instructor rests on my mastery of marketing, public relations, systems, and merchandise. On August 23, 2016, Iconic Minds came into being. The subsequent year marked my transition into a full-time business owner and visionary architect, a journey that has steered over 450+ businesses to success.

Across industries, I’ve learned that innovation thrives when ideas cross-pollinate. My approach, unconventional in some fields, can often be a fresh perspective when applied elsewhere. Managing a brand’s complexities is an art we’ve mastered, ensuring our clients shine center stage, passionately pursuing their dreams while we handle the intricacies behind the scenes.

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?
Welcome to Atlanta, the city where Southern charm meets vibrant energy! For a week-long extravaganza, here’s an itinerary that promises the best time ever:

**Day 1: Welcome to Atlanta**
– *Morning:* Kickstart the day with a hearty brunch at **Buttermilk Kitchen** for their famous pancakes and Southern-inspired delights.
– *Afternoon:* Head to the **Atlanta Botanical Garden** for a leisurely stroll amid beautiful blooms.
– *Evening:* Sip on craft cocktails at **The Lawrence** in Midtown, followed by dinner at **South City Kitchen** for modern Southern cuisine.

**Day 2: Cultural Exploration**
– *Morning:* Visit the iconic **Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site** to delve into history.
– *Afternoon:* Enjoy lunch at **Ponce City Market**, home to various eateries and unique boutiques.
– *Evening:* Experience Atlanta’s arts scene at the **High Museum of Art** and then dine at **Bacchanalia** for a gourmet dinner.

**Day 3: Outdoor Adventure**
– *Morning:* Take a scenic hike in the **Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area**.
– *Afternoon:* Refuel with lunch at **Taqueria del Sol** for delicious tacos.
– *Evening:* Unwind at the **Jeju Sauna Spa** for a relaxing spa experience.

**Day 4: Foodie Delights**
– *Morning:* Discover the vibrant flavors of the **Krog Street Market** for breakfast.
– *Afternoon:* Indulge in a culinary journey at **The Optimist**, known for its seafood.
– *Evening:* Enjoy cocktails at the rooftop bar **Nine Mile Station**.

**Day 5: Entertainment Extravaganza**
– *Morning:* Visit the **Atlanta BeltLine** and explore the Eastside Trail.
– *Afternoon:* Have lunch at **Ladybird Grove & Mess Hall** for a casual outdoor setting.
– *Evening:* Catch a live performance at the iconic **Fox Theatre**, followed by dinner at **Staplehouse**.

**Day 6: Retail Therapy and Rooftop Vibes**
– *Morning:* Shop at the trendy boutiques in **Virginia-Highland**.
– *Afternoon:* Savor brunch at **Murphy’s**, a local favorite.
– *Evening:* Enjoy sunset views at **Ponce City Market Rooftop** and dine at **Two Urban Licks**.

**Day 7: Farewell Atlanta**
– *Morning:* Explore the historic **Oakland Cemetery**.
– *Afternoon:* Conclude the trip with lunch at **Mary Mac’s Tea Room** for classic Southern comfort food.

This itinerary captures the essence of Atlanta’s diverse offerings, from cultural landmarks and outdoor adventures to culinary delights and spa relaxation. It ensures your best friend experiences the finest Atlanta has to offer!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Three individuals played pivotal roles in shaping my journey, each deserving credit for contributing to my story. First and foremost, my mother—her influence on my mindfulness and creativity has been profound. Growing up in a family that cherished music, our weekly trips to the record store and Blockbuster fueled my love for self-expression through albums and movies. This early exposure ignited my passion for fashion, creating a seamless connection between music, movies, and my personal style. All of which have an impact on my creativity today.

The second credit goes to Free from 106 & Park. During my high school years, I envisioned myself hosting a music countdown show, inspired by Free’s charisma and the latest fashion trends showcased on the program. High school marked my deep involvement in radio promo teams, where I spent countless hours watching interviews and participating in creative endeavors. It was during this period that my teacher, Mrs. Karzetta Bester, introduced me to the world of Public Relations. Mrs. Bester not only fueled my interest but also encouraged me to participate in oratorical and writing contests, sparking my desire to explore the industry further in college.

In pursuit of my aspirations, I entered college to study Communications with a concentration in Public Relations and a minor in Marketing. Additionally, I took on the role of a rotation DJ for the school’s radio station, conducting interviews and honing my skills, a journey that continues to unfold to this day.

Website: www.iconicminds.biz/home

Instagram: instagram.com/iconicmindsinc

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/company/iconicmindsinc/

Facebook: facebook.com/iconicmindsinc

Image Credits
Kamera Girl @kweenkayyysnapped Flawless Image Studios @flawless_images_studio