We had the good fortune of connecting with Carrita Tanner-Cloud and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Carrita, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
As I reflect on the journey that led me to found Creativity Justified back in 2016, I’m reminded of the winding path that brought me to this pivotal moment. Growing up, my passion for art burned brightly within me, igniting my imagination and fueling my creative spirit. However, as I ventured into adulthood, I found myself drawn to a different path – one rooted in healthcare, driven by a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of others.

During my college years, I immersed myself in the study of healthcare administration, convinced that this was my calling. Yet, as I delved deeper into the field, I discovered that while I had an unwavering dedication to helping others, the clinical aspects of medicine left me feeling somewhat disconnected. It was then that I began to explore administrative roles, seeking a way to marry my passion for service with my love for organization and strategy.

It was in the midst of this journey, while navigating the complexities of the healthcare space, that the seeds of Creativity Justified were planted. As I dabbled in freelancing, I found myself drawn to the world of digital design and marketing, captivated by the power of creative expression to transform businesses and connect with audiences on a deeper level.

In 2018, fueled by a growing passion and a desire to chart my own path, I made the bold decision to transition into entrepreneurship full-time. Yet, my motivations extended far beyond personal success. I was acutely aware of the stark underrepresentation of women, particularly women of color, in the advertising industry – a realization that ignited a fire within me to effect change.

With a mission to disrupt the status quo and carve out space for diverse voices and perspectives, Creativity Justified took on a new purpose. I was determined to challenge the notion that creativity knows no bounds, to shatter barriers, and to empower women and people of color to claim their rightful place in the industry.

My agency was born not only out of a desire to create impactful digital experiences but also to advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and recognition. It exists to challenge stereotypes, dismantle systemic barriers, and pave the way for a future where talent knows no boundaries and creativity knows no limits.

In every project we undertake, in every campaign we launch, we carry this mission forward – striving to leave an indelible mark on the world, one creative endeavor at a time. For me, Creativity Justified is more than just a business; it’s a platform for change, a beacon of hope, and a testament to the transformative power of creativity and diversity.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Certainly! At Creativity Justified, we pride ourselves on being more than just a digital marketing agency – we’re a catalyst for change, a champion of creativity, diversity, and inclusivity. What sets us apart is our unwavering commitment to not only delivering exceptional results but also advocating for underrepresented voices in the industry. We are proud of our mission to disrupt the status quo and create opportunities for women and people of color in advertising and marketing. Our journey to where we are today has been anything but easy. We’ve encountered numerous challenges along the way, from breaking into a predominantly male-dominated industry to navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. However, through perseverance, resilience, and an unshakeable belief in our vision, we’ve overcome each obstacle that has come our way. The lessons we’ve learned have been invaluable – from the importance of staying true to our values to the power of collaboration and community-building. We want the world to know that Creativity Justified is more than just a brand – we’re a movement, a force for positive change in an industry ripe for disruption. Our story is one of passion, purpose, and the relentless pursuit of excellence, and we’re excited to continue making an impact, one creative endeavor at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend was visiting Atlanta, I would want to show them the best of what the city has to offer, particularly focusing on black-owned establishments that highlight the vibrant culture and rich history of the African American community. Here’s a week-long itinerary of where we would eat, drink, visit, and hang out:

Day 1:
Morning: We would start the day with breakfast at Le Petit Marché in Kirkwood, known for its delicious Southern-style breakfast dishes and cozy atmosphere.
Afternoon: We would visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic Site, including the King Center and Ebenezer Baptist Church, to pay homage to the legacy of Dr. King and learn about the civil rights movement.
Evening: For dinner, we would head to Busy Bee Cafe in the West End, a beloved institution serving up classic soul food dishes like fried chicken and collard greens.

Day 2:
Morning: We would grab brunch at Sweet Auburn Curb Market, a historic market in downtown Atlanta featuring a variety of food stalls and vendors.
Afternoon: We would explore the Atlanta BeltLine, an urban trail connecting various neighborhoods and offering art installations, parks, and stunning views of the city skyline.
Evening: Dinner would be at Slutty Vegan in Westview, a popular spot known for its creative plant-based burgers and lively atmosphere.

Day 3:
Morning: We would start the day with breakfast at Breakfast at Barney’s in East Atlanta Village, a cozy diner serving up hearty breakfast classics.
Afternoon: We would spend the afternoon exploring the historic Sweet Auburn district, visiting landmarks like the Apex Museum and the Sweet Auburn Historic District.
Evening: Dinner would be at Paschal’s Restaurant in Castleberry Hill, a legendary soul food restaurant that has been serving Atlanta for over 70 years.

Day 4:
Morning: We would enjoy brunch at Atlanta Breakfast Club in downtown Atlanta, known for its innovative takes on classic breakfast dishes.
Afternoon: We would visit the National Center for Civil and Human Rights, an interactive museum dedicated to the global struggle for civil and human rights.
Evening: Dinner would be at Tassili’s Raw Reality in the West End, a vegan restaurant offering delicious and healthy raw food options.

Day 5:
Morning: We would start the day with breakfast at Home Grown in Reynoldstown, a quirky diner serving up Southern comfort food with a twist.
Afternoon: We would spend the afternoon exploring the Atlanta History Center, including the Swan House and the gardens.
Evening: Dinner would be at Twisted Soul Cookhouse & Pours in Westside, known for its modern take on Southern cuisine and creative cocktails.

Day 6:
Morning: We would grab brunch at The Beautiful Restaurant in Southwest Atlanta, known for its delicious brunch buffet featuring Southern favorites.
Afternoon: We would visit the High Museum of Art, one of the leading art museums in the Southeast, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.
Evening: Dinner would be at D Cafe in East Point, a cozy neighborhood spot serving up Caribbean-inspired dishes.

Day 7:
Morning: We would end our trip with brunch at Old Lady Gang in Castleberry Hill, a popular restaurant owned by Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burruss and her family, serving up Southern comfort food with a twist.
Afternoon: We would take a stroll through Piedmont Park, Atlanta’s largest and most popular park, and enjoy the beautiful scenery and skyline views.
Evening: We would have a farewell dinner at Virgil’s Gullah Kitchen & Bar in College Park, known for its authentic Gullah Geechee cuisine and warm hospitality.

Throughout the week, we would also make time to explore Atlanta’s vibrant nightlife scene, including live music venues, jazz clubs, and cocktail bars, to fully experience the city’s rich cultural heritage and dynamic energy.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Throughout my life, I’ve always relied on God as my ultimate source of guidance and strength. That’s my number one belief, unwavering and unchanging.

Additionally, I attribute much of who I am today to the profound influence of my parents. They have played a pivotal role in shaping my character, challenging me, correcting me, and ultimately molding me into the woman I have become.

My father, Robert D. Tanner, Jr., is an exceptional individual, excelling in various roles as a father, husband, businessman, entrepreneur, and pastor. Long before the era of social media glorified entrepreneurship, my father embodied the spirit of a successful entrepreneur, achieving significant success in his endeavors. He instilled in me the core values of hard work, integrity, and purpose-driven living.

On the other hand, my mother, Denise Travis Tanner, possesses a beauty and spirit that radiates from within. As a devoted special education teacher for most of my life, she has demonstrated unparalleled compassion and dedication. I have witnessed firsthand her unwavering care and support, not only for me and my siblings but also for her students, both inside and outside the classroom. Her selflessness and boundless love are truly remarkable.

Website: https://creativityjustified.com

Instagram: https://instagram.com/creativityjustified

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/creativity-jusitified

Twitter: https://twitter.com/creativityjust2

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creativityjustifiednola/

Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/creativity-justified-mandeville-2

Image Credits
Armon Dauphin

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