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

Hi Lauren, why did you pursue a creative career?
As far back as I can remember, I have always had a love for all things art related with an emphasis on fashion. I started sketching at an early age, and soon after, I designed my first clothing line at the age of 12. The women in my family were also a big influence. Each of the matriarchs in my family possessed a unique style which has definitely influenced mine. I love being a creative. I enjoy the whole process. For me, there is nothing more fulfilling than taking an idea, cultivating it, and making it into something so beautiful that others love it too. It feels amazing to see someone inspired by your work, or confident wearing your piece. Overall, I decided to choose a creative path because sharing my style with others makes me happy.

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?
COCO & Blondie is a fashion brand specializing in unique eye-wear and accessories. My plan is to expand into fashion apparel and swimwear in the near future. COCO & Blondie seeks to provide high-end fashion at affordable prices making designer styles accessible to everyone. I want my clients to have a end-to-end positive experience with every transaction. I am most excited about the future of the brand. I am looking to incorporate more branded apparel this year, giving my clients the opportunity to really become a part of the brand and the feel of what COCO & Blondie is from my personal perspective. The best part about my brand is I’m living it. It’s for girls just like me. Girls who are multifaceted, funny, sassy, smart, adventurous, cool, and so much more. Being an entrepreneur is not easy. I am still building and still working on who I am becoming. I got to where I am today through research, risk-taking, and savvy marketing. Social media has been an major factor in my current success. My biggest challenges have been with regards to balancing my “9 to 5” with building my company. I am basically working 2 full-time jobs. I can be exhausting, but I manage it by writing down my day-to-day activities, crossing things off the list as I go, and making sure I take time for myself when I can.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
A few of my favorite hot-spots are: G’s Midtown or Midtown Tavern for drinks and karaoke, The Hive in Buckhead or Red Pepper Taqueria for brunch and mimosas, Roswell Mill or The Chattahoochee Nature Preserve for a nice hike and a taste of nature, Highland Bakery is a must for breakfast, and Canoe would be a great place in Cobb County for Dinner.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to dedicate this shout out to my best friend Blake Larkin, Owner of BDesmone. His drive and dedication to making anything happen that he puts his mind to has always been an inspiration for me to do the same. He pushes me out of my comfort zone, he tells me the things I may not want to hear, but need to hear, he encourages me to keep going when I lose focus. He always has positive criticism and advice to help push my brand forward. He is a great friend.

Website: www.cocoandblondie.com
Instagram: @shopcoco.blondie
Facebook: www.facebook.com/cocoandblondie
Other: @lomizbhaven

Image Credits
@shopcoco.blondie (I also do my own photography)

Nominate someone: ShoutoutAtlanta is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.