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

Hi Epiphany, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
I didn’t think; I just went for it! When I graduated from high school in 2011, as we all do, I was thinking, “what’s next”? College was a must for me. However, I had no clue what my major was going to be, I wasn’t interested in much at the time, and I didn’t want a summer job because I was transitioning to another state. When an idea came to me and my mother to start my first business Sweet Epiphanies’ Chocolate Boutique. I built my brand all through college on my own, created my logo, marketing/advertising content, and managed my social media. Once again, not thinking what I was doing much, I was. I was an entrepreneur! Honey, I was a baking graphic designer and digital marketer all in one. I had friends and even strangers (young and old) contacting me to help them create content for their businesses and learn how to become entrepreneurs. With that being said, I started my next company, ENJ Branding, to fulfill a need and to be whom I needed when I first started my business for someone else. My thought process was that if I could help someone accomplish their dream and make a part of the journey more comfortable, that would be enough for me.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What sets ENJ Branding apart is that we are a one-stop-shop! We provide our clients with whatever they need to start/continue to build their brand. We encourage our clients to come to us with the idea of their business. From there, we can help with “Next Step” planning, logos, promotional flyers, marketing strategies, content calendar, business cards, and even a website. For those more established companies that need a revamp, we are here to provide a fresh look or help advertise more effectively. We offer product shoots and social media management as well. This makes us an unstoppable force because ideally when a business is in progress, it’s most beneficial to have consistent branding. Working with one company can help create that cohesiveness. Where I am today professionally came from many different areas of my life. First, building my brand, Sweet Epiphanies Chocolate Boutique, surprisingly prepare me for ENJ Branding. I am also a mother, so I compared developing a brand to “preparing for a baby.” Preparation is essential to produce a thriving company. So, I keep that in mind when I work on each project. I know the services I provide are a critical part of producing a profitable brand—encountering different personalities during my attendance at my alma mater Alabama A&M University taught me how to work well with others. I’ve discovered service-based businesses are not always a cakewalk, but I’ve truly learned how to stay professional and always give the best service no matter the situation. Besides some of the personalities encountered, the business itself can be challenging. One day business is booming, and the next, you’re wondering if you should give up. I have defeated a lot of hard times by leaning on my family. Some days it’s the encouraging word and scriptures from my mother; other days, it’s the necessary stern lectures from my father. Although I’ve experienced more bad days than I’ve wanted to, I know I’m on the right path. One of the best lessons I have learned is to: set the tone! Wake up and prepare yourself for the day. Wiz Khalifa said, “I used to think going to sleep late was cool. Till I realized waking up early is the real boss shit.” Life is not about waking up early to start “the work”; it’s about making sure you are in the right mindset to tackle life. Waking up at 5 am, starting my day with devotionals and a good workout helps me increase my productivity. When I start it any other way, I’m bound to drown. After that, I have the whole day ahead of me to complete tasks. Not to mention, the early bird catches the worm. The second best lesson is to “march to the beat of your own drum.” Your journey will not be like someone else, so do not try to compete or rush your process. This is the quickest way to get the Great Value version of life. What I want the world to know about Epiphany is, I work hard. Simple as that. From the outside looking in, it may seem easy or that I have it all together, but it’s not, and I don’t. I wake up some days, and business is the furthest thing from my mind. But I know God has blessed me with unique abilities, and to thank him, I share them with the world. My son is also watching my every move. There have been days that I wanted to scream to the top of my lungs, break down and cry, or just give up, but for the sake of him, I keep pushing. Which brings me to the last lesson I learned: IT’S OKAY NOT BE OKAY. I go in my private corner, and I allow myself to feel. Then I release the negative, pray about it, and move forward. I am human.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well I’m simple but the best visit to Atlanta begins with brunch at Corner Grill in College Park! The best shrimp and grits with a simple mimosa is the only way to start the morning! Head down to little 5 points to support the many black owned shops and to take dope photos with the art. Slide down to Slutty Vegan for a Menage A Trios and a Slutty Slushy. Gotta take a lil’ nappy nap after all of that and then end the night at the U Bar in Camp Creek. Hot Cauliflower wings with a vodka and pineapple juice, all while vibing to Dj Eversince, LITTY!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
A special shoutout to my family is undoubtedly necessary! God has truly blessed me with the most amazing family ever! They have always encouraged, believed, and pushed me to be the best version of myself. There is no part of any of my businesses that my family isn’t involved in! I could never thank them enough, but you can bet they will be with me at the top!

Website: www.enjbranding.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/enjbranding/?hl=en

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/epiphany-jackson

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/enjbranding101/

Other: www.chefepiphany.com / IG: www.instagram.com/lovesweetepiphanies/?hl=en

Image Credits
All right belong to ENJ Branding for the provided images.

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