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

Hi Shara, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success and the success of my brand is persistence in the face of adversity. Being an entrepreneur, a full time single parent and having a regular 9-5 is by no means an easy rodeo. You would think assuming all of these roles would be too difficult a task to juggle but managing my time effectively has played a major role in the continued success of my business, JorTene’ Arts. Following through although there never seems to be enough time in the day– working countless hours, late nights and early mornings. There have been several times I thought to myself this is not it–I am not receiving the type of business nor life I want or know I deserve. I know I am capable of substantial success but why have I not reached it yet? I have had to engage in positive self talk, maintain a optimistic mindset and trust that God is moving me in the right direction. The gifts and talents I possess I know are real and continuing with my craft will aid in me attaining my fullest potential and achieving my ultimate desires in life. How can I reach my zenith if I give up just because things get rocky and aren’t moving at the pace I would like them to? It is simple; I can’t and I won’t. Moving forward even when it feels like you have been defeated is heavily important in all aspects of life; not just business. I feel I have done this, gracefully. I have had zero money to put towards my business, I have had to take risks, I have made mistakes, I have had to cut corners to get started, I have had to take mental breaks due to dealing with my son’s corrective surgeries, I have had to deal with this thing called life and I have had to completely reevaluate why I am even doing this at all; because I love it and the fact that my business still exists even through all of this demonstrates that my persistence has already paid off. Breaking through these barriers has allowed me to build a handcrafted art business from the ground up with no outside resources and develop myself as a self taught artist, entrepreneur and business owner. I continue to learn, I continue to teach and I continue to build this legacy for my son and generations to come. With exceptional products, service and attention to detail, JA’s footprint will encompass markets worldwide. JorTene’ Arts is the go to place for custom, handcrafted art that brings a classic touch to your home and office. Visit jortenearts.com to get custom, crafted, classic.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What I am most proud of is being a self taught artist who has built a business from the ground up. I have had many a hurdles thrown my way but I broke through them and stayed afloat, I am passionate, persistent and resilient. These qualities have allowed me to get where I am today. Most people know that being an entrepreneur is not easy. You have to learn a lot on your own and complete a lot of research. Some have businesses handed down to them on a silver platter and don’t have to work for much. I receive much more fulfillment knowing how hard I have worked to get to where I am. My business has come a long way since opening the doors in 2014. I have learned that taking risks is a must and not allowing negative things to deter you from reaching your fullest potential.

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?
Downtown Atlanta has a lot to see. I recently visited a restaurant called The Slutty Vegan. It was surely worth the wait. This would definitely be a stop on the itinerary. Ponce City Market is one of my favorite areas to attend markets and walk around. Great ambiance and food. Suntrust Park is also another relaxed place to take a stroll and find good eats and drinks. I have never been to Atlanta Botanical Garden so we may have to add that to our list of things to do.

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 want to give a huge thank you to Shani Watson-Brand and Business Coach. She has been an integral part of my business success and she has provided me with invaluable information that has allowed my business to thrive. Thank you for being so supportive. She is on IG and FB @shanitene and can be found at shanitene.com

Website: jortenearts.com
Instagram: instagram.com/jortenearts
Facebook: facebook.com/jortenearts
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqu6OkWF0GbaR9PFgenmp_w

Image Credits
@nileyang (close up shot with coasters in front of face)