Meet Cierra St. Hubert-Upshaw | Business Consultant & Creative

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cierra St. Hubert-Upshaw and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cierra, why did you pursue a creative career?
Whewww! I started my business in 2018 after losing someone very close to me. It was a dark time for me because I was fresh out of grad school in a job I once loved but no longer aligned with. I had always been creative. I loved to play around with colors and making keepsakes for others. My best friend at the time saw how much I was dealing with and always sent me messages and pictures to cheer me up. He actually designed my first logo for my IG page, Healing Hearts, that talked about dealing with grief. After that I was obsessed with learning how to make logos. We made a deal that during my lunch breaks he would come and teach me Photoshop basics. What I did not know was that I had a spiteful coworker who was following me and sending all of my social media to the CEO. Yes I was well aware of my jobs social media policy and non-compete agreement. I was not in violation of either. I got called into the CEO’s office, and I was told that I was in direct violation because I was competing with our company because they offer counseling services for all including those dealing with grief. My IG page was strictly informational and offered no services but I was told to take it down or be terminated. I removed all of my postings and blocked everyone related to the company. The coworker made a fake page and went right on back to screenshot showing that I had not deleted it. I cannot even remember our last conversation when they pulled me in the office again. I told them I was not dealing with this and walked out and removed/shredded everything that had my name on it. A week later I started my business in graphic design and never looked back. I was happy to be free and be able to do what I wanted.

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?
My business is called Everything & Co. I started doing graphic design and websites but I needed to pivot. I was consulting for free and realized I could still offer design but it was time for me to show up as a business consultant. During the pandemic I had to become more hands-on in their businesses. The business environment had evolved, and as a consultant you adapt to change and stay ahead of trends and emerging technologies. I literally knew EVERYTHING. I worked with nonprofits, construction companies, hairstylists, clothing boutiques and artists. Some of them still till this day

Running my business has not been easy. I have had clients dispute projects resulting in thousands lost. I have had difficult clients who were not clear on their needs and made the revision process longer. I revised my policies and stuck to them. This was my biggest lesson being clear on what I would accept and would not accept. I had to effectively communicate how without becoming rude but also still standing firm on my policies.

What sets me apart as a business consultant is that I am well-rounded. I have worked with different businesses in various industries and take that knowledge to help me assist others. I understand my clients’ needs, goals, and vision and tailor my services accordingly. My ability to think critically and provide innovative solutions sets me apart. I have a wide network of resources allowing me to be all inclusive.

I’m proud of my business’ growth and continued success. I’m just getting started I have so much more knowledge to give the world.

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?
Well me and my best friends share a running list of restaurants and things to try in different cities. I live in Atlanta so of course we gotta find a nice vibe. For starters, we gotta do some shopping. We would start off in Ponce City Market for a relaxed afternoon of shopping, dining, and rooftop drinks with stunning views of the city. Some of my other go to places are Modish, Roc South, and Seasalt. They have great food and drinks. Birria ATL on Tuesday for Taco Tuesday & James Room on Wednesday for R&B night. If we are looking for Day Party vibes – suite lounge or boogalou for the weekend. For fun there are a lot of festivals that occur indoor and outdoor. Oh and let’s not forget, places like Your 3rd Spot or Bowlero are always a good spot too. We love brunch and mimosas, so of course we will be finding a spot for that as well.

I’m in a girls social group called GRLS ATL. So of course we are gonna link with them for a good time. We have various events monthly that are open to the public.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I dedicate my shout out to my parents! I’m adopted and everything I am today came from my parents (both sets). Growing up I saw how hard my parents (Barbara & Joe Upshaw) went to ensure I felt loved, seen and heard. They did everything to make sure I knew my family. I also want to shout out Obinna, you took time out of your day to teach me graphics and literally are the start of my business. To the nonprofits and all the businesses who allowed me the opportunity to work with them I am forever grateful that because of them I am able to get more clients and grow every day. To my first boss and neighbor Laurice Simmonds-Wilson thank you for allowing me the opportunity to learn how to run a business straight out of high school and providing me with continued tools for success. And last but not least thank you to God. It was times I wanted to quit and times I saw my life flash before my eyes but God does not play about me. He saw more for my life and I continue to keep pushing.

Website: www.theeverythingandco.com

Instagram: Personal: @everythingcierra ; Business @everythingandco_

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cierra-st-hubert-upshaw/

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

Image Credits
Jasmyne Booker, Fashion Riot Photography Aisha, House of Content ATL Darika Harris-Chase, Media Production Studios