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

Hi Nathalie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Originally Established in 88 started out as a blog catering to all things Caribbean. From the sweet sounds of kompa to whinnin’ down low at the latest carnival (or as we say KANAVAL). Eventually I was aiming for it to be a Caribbean version of Essence Magazine, however during my undergrad my love of production over powered my love of journalism so I thought it would make more sense to turn it into a production company.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Established in 88 focus has been to tell a good story, and give those a platform to tell their story. One thing I know for a fact is talent and seeing folks putting their authentic self behind their work. I personally love connecting with people and talking to them about their journey, seeing how an idea turned into a game-changing project. Throughout our years of interviewing we have highlighted said game changers and to watch their growth truly warms my heart but also gives me grace to dust off my shoulders and say “I told ya so. I knew they would only get bigger and better.” One thing about this industry is, it’s very white male dominated and more of a who-you-know vibe. In the beginning, I knew no one, and instead of me being told no, I created my own lane. I’ve connected with publicists, managers, and executives, to be able to “get in”. Now creating an infrastructure of a whole company takes long nights, longer days, more long nights, money, more money, and patience but with the one percent (maybe two some days) I give every day, we’re only getting better. What keeps me busy is knowing that our brand is here for the people.  We want to talk and connect with everyone who’s doing good. We strive to tell a good story for everyone.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
The Atlanta Metro area has amazing spots all over town. Gwinnett County has some of the best parks for outdoor shoots and activities and downtown ATL for in-studio filming locations. Now if you’re hungry and need to grub I thoroughly enjoy Negril restaurant. It’s a beautiful spot to enjoy some delicious Caribbean cuisine and the ambiance is perfect for a Instagram photo or two.

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?
My parents, who are the backbone and foundation for my willingness to be great. To my family – God dealt me a great hand and I’m honored to be apart of the family I have. #Team88 both past and present Jada, Nadia , Elizabeth, Tena, Temp , Dev, Kwris, Cassel, Danny, Raynita, Achim , Cece, Seon, Darvell, Sade, Karen, Trey, Abou, Dom, Paris, Andrea, and my fam that I pull into my 88 shenanigans I love y’all. And everyone that I met and will continue to meet on this journey. I’m excited to meet ya!

Website: Www.estin88.com

Instagram: Eightye8

Linkedin: Estin88

Youtube: @eightye8

Image Credits
Chris Montgomery & Established in 88 LLC

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