Meet Christina Craig | Small Business Owner and Interior Designer

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

Hi Christina, is there a quote or affirmation that’s meaningful to you?
Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote, “You must do the thing you think you cannot do,” has been the guiding principle and the backbone of my business idea and startup. This powerful statement encapsulates the essence of overcoming challenges and pushing beyond self-imposed limitations. It has become a source of inspiration that has fueled my entrepreneurial journey in several ways.

Firstly, the quote serves as a constant reminder that growth and success often lie outside our comfort zones. In the realm of entrepreneurship, where uncertainty and risk are inherent, the willingness to embrace the unknown and tackle seemingly insurmountable tasks is crucial. This mindset has empowered me to take calculated risks, try innovative approaches, and explore unconventional solutions in building and growing my startup.

Secondly, Eleanor Roosevelt’s words have instilled resilience in the face of adversity. Building a business is a journey fraught with setbacks, failures, and moments of self-doubt. However, the quote has been a beacon of encouragement during challenging times, urging me to persevere and persist in the pursuit of my goals. It has helped me view obstacles not as roadblocks but as opportunities for learning and growth.

Moreover, the quote has influenced the culture of my startup. It encourages a mindset of continuous improvement and a willingness to embrace change. This has translated into a company culture that values innovation, adaptability, and a proactive approach to problem-solving. As a leader, I have sought to instill in my team the belief that they can overcome any challenge and achieve what may initially seem impossible.

In essence, Eleanor Roosevelt’s quote has shaped not only my approach to business but also the very fabric of my startup. It has fostered a spirit of courage, resilience, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. By internalizing and embodying this philosophy, I have found the strength to turn my vision into a reality, propelling my business forward and creating an environment where challenges are met with determination rather than hesitation.

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?
Athens & Company, founded in 2019 by Interior Designer Christina Joy, stands out as a premier destination for individuals with a discerning taste for exquisite modern furniture, contemporary lighting, and elevated home decor. The brand’s carefully curated offerings encompass a diverse range of items, including modern chandeliers, Scandinavian designs, luxurious leather sofas, and unique gifts. What sets Athens & Company apart is its unwavering dedication to excellence, commitment to showcasing beautiful and authentic design, and a curated selection that includes both iconic and emerging brands.

One aspect that I am particularly proud of and excited about is our commitment to delivering exceptional craftsmanship and unparalleled elegance. Athens & Company has positioned itself as a symbol of luxury design on a national scale. The brand’s extensive selection features renowned names like Knoll, Vitra, Louis Poulsen, Kartell, and Carl Hansen, contributing to its reputation for offering the best in both in-season assortments and timeless design icons.

The journey to where Athens & Company stands today has been marked by passion, dedication, and a keen eye for design. Starting a business is rarely easy, and overcoming challenges has been a significant part of the journey. However, the brand’s commitment to excellence and the vision of creating extraordinary living experiences have been powerful motivators. Challenges were met with strategic problem-solving, adaptability, and a continuous pursuit of improvement.

Throughout this entrepreneurial journey, valuable lessons have been learned. The importance of staying true to the brand’s commitment to quality and authenticity, adapting to market trends, and fostering strong relationships with both clients and suppliers have been instrumental in the brand’s success. The combination of these factors has contributed to Athens & Company’s establishment as a go-to destination for those seeking the epitome of luxury in design.

What I want the world to know about Athens & Company is not just the products it offers but the story behind the brand—a story of passion, dedication, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Athens & Company is not just a retailer of furniture and decor; it is a curator of extraordinary living experiences, bringing together the best in design to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also deeply meaningful.

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 were visiting Athens, Georgia for a week, I’d want to ensure they experience the best the city has to offer. Here’s our itinerary for an unforgettable week:

Day 1: Explore Downtown Athens
– **Morning:** Start the day with breakfast at Big City Bread Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious baked goods and cozy atmosphere.
– **Late Morning:** Take a stroll through the historic downtown area, exploring boutique shops and art galleries.
– **Lunch:** Enjoy lunch at The Grit, a popular vegetarian restaurant offering creative and tasty dishes.
– **Afternoon:** Visit the Georgia Museum of Art, located on the University of Georgia campus, to appreciate a diverse range of artworks.
– **Evening:** Dinner at Last Resort Grill, known for its southern-inspired cuisine. Wrap up the night with live music at one of the many downtown venues like the Georgia Theatre.

Day 2: Nature and Culture
– **Morning:** Head to the State Botanical Garden of Georgia for a peaceful morning surrounded by beautiful flora.
– **Lunch:** Grab lunch at Mama’s Boy for a delicious Southern-style meal.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the Tree That Owns Itself and take a stroll through the UGA North Campus.
– **Evening:** Dinner at The National, a farm-to-table restaurant with a diverse menu. Attend a performance at the historic Morton Theatre for a taste of Athens’ cultural scene.

Day 3: Athens History and Sports
– **Morning:** Visit the Georgia Museum of Natural History to learn about the region’s natural and cultural history.
– **Lunch:** Try Cali-N-Tito’s for a taste of Caribbean and Latin American cuisine.
– **Afternoon:** Tour the UGA campus, including the famous Arch and Sanford Stadium.
– **Evening:** Grab dinner at Ted’s Most Best, a pizza place with a great outdoor seating area. If it’s football season, catch a Bulldogs game at Sanford Stadium.

Day 4: Day Trip to Oconee National Forest
– **Morning:** Take a scenic drive to Oconee National Forest.
– **Afternoon:** Hike the trails, have a picnic, and enjoy the serenity of nature.
– **Evening:** Head back to Athens and unwind with dinner at Seabear Oyster Bar.

Day 5: Food and Music
– **Morning:** Breakfast at Jittery Joe’s Coffee for a local coffee experience.
– **Late Morning:** Visit the Athens Farmers Market for fresh produce and local crafts.
– **Lunch:** Check out Weaver D’s Delicious Fine Foods, a soul food restaurant and an Athens institution.
– **Afternoon:** Explore the Athens Music Walk of Fame and then browse record stores like Wuxtry Records.
– **Evening:** Dinner at Five & Ten, a renowned restaurant with a focus on seasonal ingredients. Catch a live show at The 40 Watt Club, a legendary music venue.

Day 6: Outdoor Recreation
– **Morning:** Start the day with a hike or trail run at Sandy Creek Park.
– **Lunch:** Picnic at the park or head to Ike & Jane Cafe and Bakery for a quick bite.
– **Afternoon:** Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Lake Chapman within Sandy Creek Park.
– **Evening:** Dinner at The Branded Butcher, known for its inventive dishes.

Day 7: Relax and Indulge
– **Morning:** Have a leisurely brunch at Heirloom Cafe and Fresh Market.
– **Late Morning:** Explore the quirky shops in the Normaltown neighborhood.
– **Afternoon:** Pamper yourselves with a spa day at Urban Sanctuary Spa.
– **Evening:** Conclude the trip with a celebratory dinner at 5&10, indulging in the culinary creations of Chef Hugh Acheson.

This itinerary combines the rich cultural, culinary, and natural experiences that Athens, Georgia has to offer, ensuring a week filled with memorable moments for any visitor.

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?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to two incredible mentors who have played pivotal roles in shaping my professional journey: Hulet Smith, the CEO of my full-time job at Rehabmart, and Catrina King, my executive manager.

Firstly, Hulet Smith has been a guiding force in my career. As the CEO of Rehabmart, he has not only provided strategic leadership for the organization but has also been a source of inspiration for me. His visionary approach to business, emphasis on innovation, and commitment to making a positive impact in the healthcare industry have been instrumental in broadening my perspective. Hulet’s mentorship has empowered me to think critically, navigate challenges, and strive for excellence in my role.

Secondly, I want to extend my gratitude to Catrina King, my executive manager at Rehabmart. Catrina has been a supportive and encouraging mentor, consistently fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. Her leadership style, characterized by empathy and effective communication, has had a profound influence on my professional development. Under her guidance, I’ve learned the importance of teamwork, adaptability, and maintaining a client-centric focus. Catrina’s mentorship has not only enhanced my skills but has also contributed significantly to my personal growth within the company.

In recognizing Hulet Smith and Catrina King, I want to highlight the profound impact mentors can have on one’s career. Their wisdom, guidance, and belief in my potential have been invaluable, and I attribute a significant portion of my success and growth to their mentorship. Their dedication to fostering a culture of learning and empowerment has created an environment where I feel motivated to take on challenges, learn continuously, and strive for excellence in both my full-time role and my personal business endeavors.

Website: www.athensandcompany.com

Instagram: @athensandcompany

Linkedin: @athesnandcompanyllc

Facebook: Athens & Company LLC

Image Credits
Raneem Ahmad