The people featured in this Young,
Gifted and Fresh interview series are not necessarily what most people would
consider to be accomplished, because the majority of society equates a sizable
bank account as the only measurement of notable success. Instead, they are
featured because they have veered from the beaten path and decided to take the
road less traveled.
Life is a journey is as clichéd a phrase as one could imagine, but sometimes there is profound truth in simplicity. Life's journey is complex, and a formidable burden, especially when there are no guarantees having not been born with a silver spoon. The Young, Gifted and Fresh that are featured are in the process of making their own way and living out their dreams.
Life is a journey is as clichéd a phrase as one could imagine, but sometimes there is profound truth in simplicity. Life's journey is complex, and a formidable burden, especially when there are no guarantees having not been born with a silver spoon. The Young, Gifted and Fresh that are featured are in the process of making their own way and living out their dreams.
This series is one that I hope will be
ongoing and ever evolving. For now, let me start with a few entrepreneurs,
educators, stylists, and a nonprofit founder. They all have one thing in
common; they have discovered their purpose and are chasing their dreams. Tune
in every Monday over the course of the next few weeks as I introduce a few people worthy
of the title, Young, Gifted and Fresh.
SHAYLA COURTNEY
Shayla Courtney is a motivated young woman who has not let the fear of the unknown deter her from pursuing her dreams. Unlike most people, Shayla decided to set goals, create an exit strategy and leave her job, making her the ultimate dream chaser. 
What inspired you to leave your past
position and pursue being a Fashion Stylist full-time?
I've
always dreamed of paving my own way in the fashion Industry and knew that I
would eventually be an entrepreneur full time. Since 2011 I have been planning
and prepping until finally, after much prayer, I took the leap! I was truly
inspired by my own dreams and vision God has given me!
What services do you offer in
addition to styling?
As
a fashion stylist I offer closet organizing, wardrobe consulting, and event
styling. As an industry professional I offer services to fashion based
business that include creating dynamic visual displays, photo shoot
styling, fashion brand consulting, and fashion writing services.
What are the best and worst parts about
working for yourself?
The
best part about working for myself is having the time to truly put 100% of me
into my business. And control my own calendar. The worst is that everyone
thinks you have so much time to do for them and you don't! You're busy running
a business.
What are some of the challenges you
face as a stylist?
The
first challenge that comes to mind is getting people to realize how important
really style is! I created my STYLEBRAND campaign to promote what STYLE means for the everyday, for
business, and how it affects your life. The second challenge is convincing
a difficult client to try new things. But that's always a challenge I love and
conquer.
What is your single most memorable
experience as a stylist?
My
most memorable experience was working with one client I had and she literally
was so happy after her consultation she nearly cried! She felt so much better
after the experience and her perspective changed after knowing what to do with
her style. She was so pleased and promised she would be a client for a life.
Describe a typical day-in-the-life
of Shayla Courtney.
There
really is no typical day for me! I do start off every morning praying and then
reading. Workouts in the morning, and then there's consultations, marketing
plans, events, and usually a meeting every day.
Who and/or what inspires you?
I'm
inspired by art, design, creativity and my Fab Five-- my circle of persons who
are just as driven, inspiring, and go-getters.
Who and/or what motivates you?
I'm
motivated most by my parents. I've always wanted to make them proud. My
boyfriend motivates me too! He is always pushing me by being super positive.
If you could style two celebrity
clients, one male and one female, who would they be and why?
I
absolutely love K.Michelle! She has the voice of an angel. I would love to get
her style to a place that helps her build a better image and matches the voice
she carries!
The
man I would make over is Nelly! He's like way hot, but he's gotten a little older
and could easily be a well-dressed gentleman if he gave up the street boy
image.
What are you currently working on?
Any upcoming projects you want to share?
I'm
currently working on The Shayla Courtney
SCANDAL. It’s a huge offer I'm doing as a thank you to all of followers!
It's 60 minutes of STYLE for only $65! They can book me at www.shaylacourtney.com/the-scandal
I
do have a couple of upcoming projects as well! I plan on having some BIG events
in the next months! Make sure to stay tuned to my website (www.shaylacourtney.com)
and IG account (@iamshaylacourtney).
What advice do you have for someone
working a 9-5 job, wants to pursue a dream full-time, but doesn’t have the
financial means to leave their current employer?
My
advice is to take your time, save your money, and make an exit strategy! I'm
currently working with two business owners assisting them in planning their
exit strategy. As a business consultant who's experienced it first-hand I
definitely know the plan is everything!
What do you want Faith and Stars
readers to know about you and your business(es)?
I
work hard because I truly do believe that everyone can have a style that
doesn't just make them look good but makes them feel good too! I breathe style,
live style, and like all the greats say-I am fashion!
It takes a lot of wherewithal in oneself and one’s ability to leave a secure job. At a young age we are groomed to make good grades, go to college, get a good job, and work on a retirement plan. Shayla has taken it upon herself to create her own destiny. Facing all the unknowns, she still decided that in making her own way-that was the brightest future. Her story is compelling because it brings to light what is missing in our educational system-teaching people to be creative entrepreneurs. Imagine what our economy would look like if we were groomed to go against the grain, and work for ourselves, verses robotically punching in at a 9-5.
It takes a lot of wherewithal in oneself and one’s ability to leave a secure job. At a young age we are groomed to make good grades, go to college, get a good job, and work on a retirement plan. Shayla has taken it upon herself to create her own destiny. Facing all the unknowns, she still decided that in making her own way-that was the brightest future. Her story is compelling because it brings to light what is missing in our educational system-teaching people to be creative entrepreneurs. Imagine what our economy would look like if we were groomed to go against the grain, and work for ourselves, verses robotically punching in at a 9-5.
Contact info: Shayla Courtney
Email: talkstyle@shaylacourtney.com
IG: @iamshaylacourtney
Twitter: @shaylacourtney
Tune in next Monday for the interview with the dream chaser
named Nicole Richardson who recently took a trip to the Big Apple to hone her craft.
If you or someone you know would like to be a part of the interview series, Young, Gifted and Fresh, contact me at stacysfaithandstars@gmail.com
Click here to read the previous interview with Shaunita Sykes
If you or someone you know would like to be a part of the interview series, Young, Gifted and Fresh, contact me at stacysfaithandstars@gmail.com
Click here to read the previous interview with Shaunita Sykes
No comments:
Post a Comment