We had the good fortune of connecting with Michelle Turner and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Michelle, what is the most important factor behind your success?
Authenticity. I believe in “what you see is what you get.” The person I am on social media is the same one you will see in person. The food and places I recommend are things I love to eat and places I love to go. Brands I work with represent the values I believe in. It’s my authenticity that builds trust and allowed me to build a wonderful community. If you know me you know I hate calling people followers. I consider everyone someone I can learn and build with and I wouldn’t be here without the community.
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?
Excited to Feast, a lifestyle brand that highlights and celebrates the culturally diverse world through food, beer, and travel. My work is shared through the lens of a Black woman to give voice to those that look like me. What sets me apart is my deep curiosity to learn and try new things with a genuine passion to inspire people to go out and have new experiences. I want to build bridges that celebrate what makes us different and bonds us together. I have to admit that in today’s social media world where we are so connected, it’s hard to feel like I can stand out. As a result, I sometimes get in my own way questioning if I can bring something different to the table. I realize I need to stop doubting myself and know that my unique story has value. As a woman, I have to show myself the same care and trust I give to others. Excited to Feast is my way of getting out of my way to share my story and inspire those around me to keep pushing forward. I am excited to continue to shine the light on Atlanta food and beer culture and when the world opens back up, traveling again to experience the world.
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?
It’s always so hard for me to narrow it down because there are so many must-sees in Atlanta! Everyone always wants me to take them for ramen so I would definitely take them to Jinya Ramen Bar to start. There are at least 5 ramen spots I love so a full ramen tour is definitely on the itinerary. Of course, we would have to hit up some breweries so I would take them down to ‘Malt Disney” in the West End where we could hit up Monday Night Brewing Garage and Wild Heaven for some beer flights. Go over to Boxcar for some delicious food then head downstairs to Hop City so they can pick up some local craft beer and wine; Then we can end the night off with a cocktail or two from ASW Whiskey Exchange and if it’s warm enough take a walk along the Beltline. We are in the south so we cannot miss out on BBQ so Lake and Oak and Pit Boss are definitely on the list. And for some Black history and true soul food, we would definitely go to Busy Bee Cafe. Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Just one? Although not easy to narrow down, my shout-out goes to Danielle of Jasmine Design and Build and Malhar of M2Rest. Not only are they family, but they are two of the hardest working business owners I know. I have watched them grow their business to great success. They are always happy to share their experiences and educate me on owning my own business. They have been there not only on the business side but their emotional support has gotten me through times of self-doubt I know we all struggle with. Danielle is a true boss and an example of standing in her own power even when it’s hard. Malhar is the epitome of someone who is not going to give you the chance to think you can fail. It’s with them both, I get the inspiration and support to keep going.
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