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

Hi Laura, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process on starting my own business? I was tired of working for other people where the pay did not match my skill set and I knew I could do so much more. I was still working my full time job of over 13 years with very low wage compared to what I should have been making. Once Covid hit I was laid off for a whole and started looking for clients to support my business. When I was called back to my previous job I worked a few months and then made the decision to step out on faith and go full time with my company. I got a taste of not being tied to a desk so I was ready to break out!

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Well not only do I own a virtual assistance business but I’m also a musician. I started singing as a young girl in Dallas, Texas. I was signed by LaFace records but our group eventually go shelved. I ended up moving to Atlanta when I was in high school. It was hard adjusting to my new life in Atlanta but I was determined to hone my craft so I began to work with with different producers and bands in the area. One fellow musician informed me that Heather Hayes (daughter of legendary producer/singer Isaac Hayes) was holding auditions for her band. I made it through and I’ve been apart of her band for over 10 years. I worked for an event rentals company for 13 years before deciding I wanted to use use my talents as an administrator/manager to open my virtual assistance business. Then after many years of working on my EP I finally released my music in May of 2021 (Raw Goods Vol 1: Message in a Bottle). It was a HUGE accomplishment for me. What I’ve learned over the years is to be strong and confident. I’ve learned you have to keep pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. No one is coming to save you. I would like the world to know I love to see people winning and whatever I can do to assist whether it be with my business or through music I’m all for it! You can find my project Raw Goods Vol 1: Message in a Bottle on all streaming platforms.

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?
Yes! My BFF is coming in town for her birthday next week and being a VA means I love itineraries! I’m a total foodie so of course we will hit my favorite spots like Houston’s, Mikkey’s Retro Bar and Grill (gotta get those rico wings) Po Calvin’s downtown (my favorite is the lobster fried rice) and I’m a fan of seafood so I enjoy Hugo’s Oyster bar in Roswell. For a quick cocktail you will find me at Ponce City Market, Republic Social House, The Select or on a patio enjoying a Margarita. Nightlife is always popping in Atlanta so I usually find a spot to hear live music, activities like Putt shack, Axe throwing, Atlantic Station and East Atlanta Village. Saturday night we will head over to Suite Lounge listening to The Red Sample for Trap and Dine and possibly get a milkshake from the Yard. Sunday Brunch is a definite must! Toast on Lenox, 57th Fighter Group, The Real Milk and Honey, Southern Gentleman and so much more! When I have friends visit there is so much to do and not enough time!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First and foremost it would be God who has given me the strength to pursue the dreams he gave me and tools to be successful. Also my business partner who encouraged me to step out on faith and take a chance on myself as I always did for others. Of course my family, friends and supporters.

Website: www.lvvirtualconsulting.com

Instagram: lauravernicemusic

Twitter: lauravernice

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lvvirtualconsulting1

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/lauravernice

Other: https://linktr.ee/LauraVernice

Image Credits
Jestein Futrell for Shoot Love Repeat

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