We had the good fortune of connecting with Teresa Ann Shell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Teresa Ann, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
When I first founded my company, there was not much of a balance. I worked any chance I got – late at night, on vacation, even taking calls in the car. But I knew that would only be temporary. As the company grew, I was able to take a step back and rely on the people I had hired to manage many of the things that had once been so time consuming. I was also able to concentrate on the parts of the business that I loved the most. I get so much joy from my job, but I also value my family and friendships. I’ve learned to set boundaries, turn off the phone, and accept that my leisure time rejuvenates me so that when I am at work, I can accomplish more.

What should our readers know about your business?
It wasn’t easy, but I’m incredibly proud of Bespoke Tutoring. We have a wonderful team who puts the children first. We have been fortunate to assist fantastic families with their children’s academic goals. We are not a company that just sends a random tutor to meet with your student though. We take the time upfront to get to know your child, his or her learning style, and his or her academic goals. We custom match our students with teachers they enjoy, which makes learning easier and less stressful. A lesson I learned a long time ago is to take a deep breath, handle what’s in front of you, but know that you come out on the other side. My faith and my team’s faith have been a big factor in the company’s success.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh we would eat our way through the ATL! We’d grab Henri’s to-go and head to Piedmont Park for a picnic. Then walk through the botanical gardens and enjoy a cocktail. An evening of comedy at Dad’s Garage would be great and we could scooter to dinner at Staplehouse (if we could get reservations!). If Atlanta United was playing, attending the game would be a must and I’d have to end the week with a leisurely walk around the aquarium to see the new baby Beluga!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Before starting Bespoke Tutoring, I had a full time engineering job. I came home one day and told my husband I wanted to quit and start this education company. We agreed to a six month trial period and we invested $200. I turned a profit the first month and never looked back. To Spencer, my sweet husband, thanks for believing in me.

Website: www.BespokeTutoring.com
Instagram: bespoketutoringatl
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bespoke-tutoring
Twitter: @BespokeTutor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BespokeTutoring
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/bespoke-tutoring-atlanta

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