We had the good fortune of connecting with Giselle Climpson and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Giselle, how do you think about risk?
Taking calculated risks keeps you alive! I’ve learned how to create the life I want by taking risks and learning from every move I make. I relocated to Atlanta over five years ago, with no job, and only a few dollars to my name. I had no idea what to expect, but I knew I needed to leave my hometown in order to truly fulfill my purpose in life. Upon my arrival to Atlanta, things just kept getting more and more challenging, but that never kept me from pushing through and navigating my way through both my personal and professional life. Since relocating, I have managed to earn my Master’s Degree, I landed my dream job with my dream company, and I even fell in loved and married my perfect match! I know this may sound like some Disney movie, but believe it or not– our lives CAN be just like movies if we take the first step in doing so! Nobody found happiness in life by playing it safe. Risks are the key to keeping your pulse going.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’m the Founder & CEO at Giselle Ave. an International Blog & Media Agency, headquartered in the Fairlie -Poplar District of Downtown Atlanta. I created my company, quite frankly, due to the lack of opportunities for black women in media, arts, and creative careers. This journey seems like a never-ending climb uphill, but still I rise. Through my work, I’m reminded of why I started, and how big of a task I’m charging myself with as a stand-alone, indie media outlet, on a mission to impact lives worldwide. The greatest lesson I’ve learned thus far is to always be firm in your vision but flexible with your method. Funding is a critical aspect to any organization, and funding is what keeps everything going. While I have enjoyed creating on Giselle Ave. I realize that funding is needed, no matter how “fun” your art is! So — keep working (whether that’s for yourself, or taking on freelance projects) so that you can comfortably manifest the perfect scenarios for yourself and your business. The face of media is changing and I’m on a mission to be at the forefront of new, digital media and storytelling. Giselle Ave. will be a household name, known for inspiring people to find their voice and be heard. But until then, I’m committed to building my company, and lifting others up as I climb.
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’m a city dweller, so I would first take them to Ponce City Market to explore the shops, dining, and Rooftop experience! I love brunch and supporting black-owned businesses, so I would also take them to Breakfast at Barney’s for their delicious breakfast menu and royal ambiance. As far as nightlife goes, this is Atlanta so everything is popping! But, I would start at The Garden Room, then head over to The Regent Cocktail Club for an elegant evening of drinks, live music, and VIBES. Atlanta has a ton of neighborhoods to explore, but I would say Downtown has the most culture, and East Atlanta Village also boasts a flavorful taste of Atlanta. It’s important to stay inside the perimeter, because I do not like driving in and around Atlanta. So ride-sharing is preferred, plus no parking fees! Of course this was the way of life before 2020 hit, but I’m sure the city will be back up and running very, very soon.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I would like to give a shoutout to my husband, and my best friend — Corderius “Awesomeisjayell” Climpson! Because of his hard-work, dedication, faith, and belief in me — I was able to work for myself full-time through my company, Giselle Ave. I’ll never forget having (what felt like) a mental breakdown when my dream job turned into a nightmare! But, he was right by my side, encouraging me along the way. Through his selflessness, and love for me, we were able to bounce back and find our own pathway in the midst of it all. To me, love is the most important thing in life. Not success, not material possessions, not social status, not clout, and definitely not my status of employment! Love conquers all, and true love brings you back to yourself. Since we got married last Spring, we both have been on a never-ending spiritual journey towards healing ourselves and finding our way back to who God has called us to be. Love conquers all, and I am so blessed to spend my life with Him!
Website: https://ongiselleave.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giselleave/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giselleclimpson/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/giselleave
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GiselleAvenue/
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNm5KNe3OrZZ9F2n0IcjP1w?view_as=subscriber
Other: Checkout my signature service, A Talk With Giselle by visiting me OnGiselleAve.com
Image Credits
Corderius Climpson Founder | CEO at Yell-Air Yell-Air.com IG: https://www.instagram.com/_yellair/