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

Hi Shana, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
When it comes to blogging and the influencing space I don’t people understand how hard it really is. People assume its about just taking cool pictures and or video and getting hundreds of likes. Being new to this industry in addition to working a full time job I quickly learned that influencing is more time consuming and more involved than my actual nine to five. Sometimes I don’t have those creative out of the box ideas, I don’t have the desire or inspiration to just show up but I have to. In order to accomplish the goals I have for myself in this space, I have to show up even when I don’t want to. Showing up and sharing certain aspects of my life ( remember social media is just a fraction of what we choose to share) when I don’t have that energy takes discipline and hard work.

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.
I graduated college with a degree in Fashion Merchandising from LIM College where I spent my time in school interning for fashion clothing brands. I had the opportunity to learn the production and product development processes for clothing, shoes. handbags and leather goods. By day I now am a Product Development Manager for a large consumer goods company. I continue to create and manage the development of concepts and products for large retailers. What I love most about my job is I get to get paid to create similar to my life as an influencer. I am paid to be myself. As I continue to grow professionally and personally learn more and more about myself. Showing the world my creativity has pushed me to share more of my personal life, allowing me to make meaningful connections with like minded people. I am passionate about my brand and my craft because I get to do what I love in all aspects of my life.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am fairly new to Atlanta but I have gotten around. Ponce City Market would be a definite stop for drinks and eats for sure. The variety in food, rooftop arcade it gives me Coney Island vibes ( native New Yorker). The Atlanta Belt line is another spot we would have to stroll down, this would be a great way to explore local bars and restaurants. It may be the tourist in me but a ride on the infamous ferries wheel is a MUST

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?

Website: www.lifestyleofacreativemom.com

Instagram: shana.gelisa

Image Credits
n/a

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.