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

Hi Karlie, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking

I think taking risks are very important in life and business as they have been instrumental in shaping where I am today. Most of my career paths have been a “risk” or as I like to phrase it, a “leap of faith”. My leaps have not always gone as planned, but I believe that’s part of the learning process. Many people are scared to take a risk or afraid they will be viewed negatively, when really it’s often an opening to a new path in life. I usually tell myself, “What’s the worst thing that could happen?” And most often, the reward far outweighs the risk. In December of 2019, I graduated from Georgia State University with a degree in entrepreneurship and a minor in marketing. At that time, I thought I would work in the music industry the rest of my life. When COVID hit, I, like many others, felt deflated and unsure of what the future would hold. I took time to reflect on what was important to me and what makes me want to get out of bed everyday. I combined my creativity, along with my love for the outdoors and making others feel special, and that’s how Comfort & Company was born. I never thought I would start my own business, but my advice-take the risk, especially when it comes to a career; it’s worth it!

What should our readers know about your business?
Comfort & Company offers intimate, bohemian styled picnics to celebrate our client’s special moments. Our custom picnics transform any space to a special getaway made just for them. What sets Comfort & Company apart from others, is our personal approach to ensuring we capture each client’s unique picnic style. We are dedicated to providing a quality experience and seeing our clients’ reactions to our picnics is priceless! I am proud to say Comfort & Company is a woman owned business and I hope to inspire other young woman to take a leap and lead their own business. At Comfort & Company, our goal is to make your picnic dreams come true.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well I love to eat, and Atlanta has many amazing choices, so eating out would be a priority! One of my favorites spots is Hattie B’s for a delicious lunch and we would stroll around Little 5 points as everyone visiting Atlanta needs to experience it. I would also take them to the Atlanta Beltline because I love to be outside, in the sunshine, and a walk along the Beltline is always a good time. I would also take them to Piedmont Park, there’s so much to do there and it’s a favorite spot for many of my picnics! For dinner, my favorite sushi place is Oku. Oku is so delightful with beautiful cusine, an awesome rooftop view, and fun cocktails. And one night we’d have to visit The Yard for a huge, amazing milkshake with a donut or piece of cake on top! There’s so much to do Atlanta; especially in the summer so when we weren’t busy eating we’d spend time on one of the lakes or hiking in North Georgia.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I am forever grateful to my parents as they have been supporting and helpful throughout the whole process of starting the business. I have never started a business before, and I could not have done it without them. I would also give a shoutout to my boyfriend as he has been encouraging me all along the way. Thank you all so much; I am grateful to have you all in my life.

Website: https://www.comfortandcompanyatl.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfort.and.company/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/comfort.and.company

Other: https://vm.tiktok.com/ZMew1oKTS/ TIK TOK

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