We had the good fortune of connecting with Umunique Nikki Williams and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Umunique Nikki, why did you pursue a creative career?
I pursued a creative career because I realized early on that I have multiple talents, as well as multiple things that I do well; and I wanted to capitalize on ALL those things. The overall goal is to create an empire big enough to create generation wealth for my future children and grand-children. I’ve never been a fan being put in a box or labeled and I’ve always been a very expressive and creative person, so it kind of came naturally in a sense.
Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
What I’m most proud of with “UMUWANNASTUNT,” is the never ending growth. Originally “StylesByNIK,” “UMUWANNASTUNT,” has been rebranded and reworked. Still providing all the following services: personal styling, personal shopping, creative directing, and brand consulting. I think the growth of my business also reflects my growth as a woman. Young, but still learning and growing everyday, always thinking of ways to improve, and be better. Staying true, bringing fresh and new ideas to the table so that the creativity never dies. I just always want to be better. All in all, I want the world to know that a Black woman took a risk by going against the norm. Bet on herself, ignored all the doubters, all the negativity, and she WILL ALWAYS come out victorious.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Monday-We’d start the day with going to “Thumbs Up” for breakfast, hands down my favorite breakfast spot. Then I’d give her a tour of downtown, even from a bird’s eye view with a ride on the big “Sky View,” Ferris wheel. That’s a nice way to really see the city. Then I’d surprise her with a nice picnic in “Centennial Park,” and end it with some Italian ice! Tuesday-We’d sleep in then hit up my girl Mia Alia (@1.luvly) on IG, for some bomb ass mani, pedis. Custom sets with all hand drawn designs, like only she can do. After I’d take her to the most every-hyped mall in Atlanta, “Lenox,” just so she can see what all the hype is about. We’d shop until we drop before heading over to “AMC” to check out the latest new films and then get some bomb shrimp tacos to eat from “Mama’s Cantina.” Hands down the best. You’ve got to go! 24hrs and they have a drive thru! Wednesday-We’d start the day making mimosas (bottomless, no cut off) with homemade fried chicken and waffles. Then we’d spend the day thrifting in Atlanta at “Buffalo Exchange,” and “Rag-o-ram-a,” Then head over to “Little 5 Points,” where we’d continue thrifting/shopping at “The Clothing Warehouse” and “American Apparel.” Once we’re tired of shopping I’d introduce her to all the good food and good vibes Little 5 has to offer. Thursday-We’d start the day off with getting breakfast from “The Flying Biscuit,” another amazing breakfast spot. I’d take her on a tour of all my little favorite art/graffiti spots in Atlanta like the “Krog Street Tunnel” and the “Atlanta Belt Line.” Both are beautiful and rich in both art and culture. Then go to the “High Museum of Art,” downtown and admire all the beautiful bodies of work, it has to offer. Friday-We’d go to Ponce City Market. Go biking and enjoy the beautiful skyline, maybe go up to the rooftop and hang out, play some games. Then hit up City winery for a good time before exploring all the cute little stores and food that they have to offer. Lots and lots of retail therapy! Before heading to “Oak Atlanta,” to turn up one time. Saturday-We’d go out to a day party at “Suite Food Lounge,” because those are lit! We’d sight see downtown, almost killing ourselves on the “Bird,” scooters, before heading to “Waffle House,” for some grub. We’d end our night by going to the “Blue Flame,” because I always hear about how good their wings are and how lit it gets at night. Sunday-We’d go the “Georgia Aquarium,” the otters are my favorite part because they’re always dancing or doing something crazy. The dolphin’s show they put on there is amazing, so if it’s showing I’d love to take her to see it. I’d have to take her to “BQE Lounge” to end the week off right. Home of the greatest red velvet chicken and waffles! The experience there at night is a vibe with a live DJ and a dance floor.
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 honestly haven’t had any mentors or help with starting my styling business. Getting the job at Nordstrom in high school definitely helped me find my niche. They groomed me pretty well when it comes to fashion merchandising, dealing with clients, sizing, basically all the foundations of styling. I would also like to thank Albany State University for supporting, encouraging me, and providing a platform to introduce my business to so many back then. I’m forever grateful.
Website: umuwannastunt.com
Instagram: @umuwannastunt
Twitter: @umuwannastunt
Image Credits
Aubrey Reinstein Umunique Nikki Williams Jordan Shambry Chariena Woods J’naya Mills O.J. Jones Sr.