Meet Shean Strong | Event & Floral Designer

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

Hi SHEAN, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
I think before you start your business- you need to be realistic and manage your own expectations . The first few weeks, months, and even the first few years may feel like uncharted territory and you have to prepare for that. Here are three reasons why I keep going 1.  I know owning my own business is what I want to do- I will only be satisfied in building my dream and carving out a space for myself. In this industry, you’ll work long hours and very long days, and if I’m going to do that- I want to make sure I’m investing and creating a lifelong vision for myself. 2. Always have new goals. I often find myself looking towards the next goal, I’m usually mentally prepared for the next thing before the opportunity arises. I’m satisfied where I am in the moment and proud of the vision I’m executing for my client, but I am always seeking new aspirations and things to do next. I think if you have that mindset its easier to recognize opportunity when it arises and continue moving forward. 3. I have found my joy- I love getting to be the creative director and designer while sharing my talents with my clients. I’m where I want to be and when I feel discouraged I remind myself where I came from, remind myself of other moments when I’ve felt discouraged and seen the ways I was able to push through, and find encouragement from that growth. That makes me want to continue growing and expanding my career.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
If I could tell the world one thing about my story is that its been one of perseverance and growth. I was not always certain that being an event designer was going to be my career and if it hadn’t been for my venture into hosting workshops, I’m not certain I would still be an event designer. I love design and I think it so very important to maintain consistency in your brand and how you treat people, while putting your client first. I love to share my vision for each client, each event, and for the industry. I hope to stay open, creative, and transparent in everything I do and finding a place in the workshop setting has allowed me to share that with other creatives.

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?
I have a custom PDF for this exact moment, “Shean Strong’s guide to ATL”. I have lots of people come to town wanting recommendations so I have a go-to guide ready to send. My recommendations consist of activities, bars, places to shop, cafes, and my personal favorite, restaurants. Atlanta has some amazing food options and I think the best way to catch up with an old friend or allow people to experience your city is over a great meal. First thing, French breakfast at Bread + Butterfly or great, classic spot, Highland Bakery. Hit up WestSide Provisions to grab a cup of coffee at Mashburn coffee and do a little shopping while you’re there. I’d make sure to have reservations at Pasta Da Pulcinella for dinner that evening. Atlanta is a bustling city with so may activities constantly going on- so if I’m looking for a great place to spend time outside the city limits, you’ll find me hiking at my favorite park- Sweetwater.

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 girlfriend Lacie has been a huge support for me. She has seen me in my lowest and most frustrated situations, and can always say one or two things to calm me down. She edits my interviews, reminds me to pack things she knows I’ll forget, says kind things and critiques me just enough to make me want to be better each and every time. I’m sincerely grateful to have her by my side.

Website: sheanstrong.com
Instagram: instagram.com/sheanstrong
Youtube: YOUTUBE.COM/SHEANSTRONG
Other: podcast: ReadySlow.co Apple/Spotify: Ready Slow

Image Credits
Clary Pfeiffer Love and Covenant Nicole Clary Jessica Gold Photography Accent Decor Magazine Shoot