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

Hi Shakayla, we’d love to hear what makes you happy.
If I have to pick one word that makes me happy, it would be family. When I think of that word, it automatically brings a smile to my face. Everyone who knows me, know how special they are in my life collectively and individually. I am who I am simply because of who they are. Through my family, I have learned how to sustain long term friendships, how to love with no boundaries, how to become my own boss, and a lifetime of life lessons and values.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
During quarantine, I had my “A ha” moment when a friend of mine asked me to assist her in styling for a photoshoot. At that moment, I realized that I found my niche and decided to turn it into my new career. I’ve always helped family and friends put together outfits for small occasions, but never thought it would turn into my passion as having a hobby outside of my non- profit education career, was not ideal. I created Style by Shakayla Rae to provide my insight on style and to inspire those around me to find their inner fashionista. I want to showcase that style can be both attainable and affordable. Here at Style by Shakayla Rae, we offer inspiration for your everyday girl, closet organization, and styling for any event! We specialize in making sure your fashion-finds compliment your body type and personality. We can’t wait to work with you!

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?
Friday night- Top Golf and then Kona Grill because they have reserve happy hour Saturady- Hiking at Cedar Ridge Preserve, visiting margaret hunt hill bridge and stopping at the food truck or fuel city. That afternoon we would go to the arboretum later that evening having dinner and drinks at sixty-vines. Sunday- we would go to breadwinners for brunch, drive over to State and Allen for their $20 carafe , and lastly go to white rock lake to enjoy some nature

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
This is a tough one because I have so many great examples in my life such as my parents, grandma, and special cousins however if I had to choose it would be my cousin Eboni Janae. Since a little girl she has always exposed me to different activities in order for me to discover myself. I remember she made me do the black heritage pageants and I fought her until the day because I was so timid, and shy in front of a crowd. Little did I know she as building my self esteem and faith in myself along the way. Little things as, buying me calendars, planners, being my life coach and taking me on the journey of starting her business she continue to leave by example while inspiring along the way. Until this day, she is my go to person for EVERYTHING. If I need career, relationship, business, or health advice I always asked her first. I am so grateful for the impact she has on my life and I am even more grateful that she is my cousin. So thank you Eboni Janae for choosing to do life with me. I love you!

Website: https://www.shakaylarae.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shakaylarae/

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