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

Hi Christina, why did you decide to pursue a creative path?
I pursued a creative career because art has always been my outlet and a form of therapeutic expression. From a young age, my interests were drawing and creating projects. Turning this hobby into a full, artistic career is just the icing on the cake. Being able to have a vision and bring it to life is the most rewarding aspect of art.

Please tell us more about your work. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The business aspect of my art first started in August 2019 when a craft project that I worked on with my kids turned into an idea. We took simple crayons and transformed them into different pieces of art. This lead to the opening of our successful Etsy Shop, The Cray Co, with many features that followed.

After Covid-19, my kids started to pursue other aspects of art expression and I decided to take my love for decorating to a new level. I wanted to use my diy crafting skills to create memorable events. This DIY aspect of my business is what I believe sets me apart from others.

Pursuing a career in event designing was very challenging at first because you are starting from nothing. You have to build an inventory and find clients that trust your vision. I have learned to not allow things to impact my energy and to not take on too many tasks. I have to remind myself that it’s okay to take breaks.

What I want the world to know about me is that I give a 110% in everything I do. I am my biggest critic and always try to find ways to improve myself. I am my best self when I am in my creative space. To be able to do this as a living is a blessing.

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?
I would start off on Monday first eating at Ponce City Market. There are so many different options to chose from like Holman and Finch. Afterwards, we can grab drinks from Bar Vegan and head to a play at the Fox Theater.

Tuesday, I would take them on a nice stroll to the Beltine and stop at Nina and Rafi’s for a slice of pizza. For dessert, I would go to Jake’s Ice Cream and then hit the High Museum’s art exhibit.

Wednesday would be a trip to Chattahoochee Food Works to devour Philly Steaks, which in my opinion is the best Philly in Atlanta. Later that night, we would head to the State Farms Arena to check out a Hawks game.

Thursday, I would head down to the Atlanta Breakfast Club and for lunch, Rumi’s at Colony Square. Afterwards, we can hangout at Stats downtown for dinner and drinks and then to Tongue and Groove for music and dancing.

Friday, I would go to Buttermilk Kitchen for their famous chicken biscuits and then head to Bar Taco for their lunch special. Afterwards, we can rent bikes and explore Piedmont Park. For dinner, I would go to Marcel and check out Little Trouble afterwards.

Saturday, I would venture to Egg Harbor for brunch and coffee and swing by Jeni’s for ice cream. Then, we would head over to Top Golf for some putting action and then to Painted Ducks for bowling and drinks. On the way home, we can slide by Sublime Donuts for dessert.

On Sunday, I would take them to Buckhead Church and then to South City Kitchen for brunch. Lastly, some much needed shopping at Lenox Mall before heading to the flight.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would first like to give credit to the strong women in my life. Without my grandmother, mom, aunt, and sister, I would not know where I would be today. These women have not only shown me unconditional love throughout my whole life but they have seen my talents long before I knew they existed. I would like to also recognize my incredible dad who has always supported me in everything I pursue and calms me down when life gets tough. Most importantly, I would like to thank my husband Sean and my two daughters, Nyomi and Sadie. My artistic career could not have been possible without the support of my amazing husband and kids. I also want to give a special shoutout to my niece who gave me that push I needed to start my event business. I would like to end this by giving many thanks to all my family, friends, and clients who have been with me from the start. I appreciate each and everyone of you.

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Twitter: https://twitter.com/seaci

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