Meet Essence Stokes-Moore | Entrepreneur

We had the good fortune of connecting with Essence Stokes-Moore and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Essence, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
Essence Stokes: My name is Essence Stokes, and I hold a BSM, MBA, and DBA—all in business. My career has primarily been in Payroll, Payroll Tax, and Human Resources. In 2015, I took a significant leap of faith and ventured into entrepreneurship by opening a full-service restaurant and daiquiri shop. It was a rewarding experience, but I made the difficult decision to close the business in 2021 to focus on completing my doctorate degree.

After finishing my degree, I spent the next 18 months reflecting and re-evaluating my path. During this time, I experienced a pivotal moment that shaped my new direction. I prayed and, in my daily reflections, I kept repeating the phrase “Hello World.” Initially, I used it as a motivation to push forward, but over time, I realized it carried a much deeper meaning.

“Hello World” became my personal mantra, an affirmation that I am here, authentic, and unapologetically myself. It symbolizes embracing my journey, including the challenges and setbacks, and turning my story into a business. I truly believe that my experiences, although they may not look like what I’ve been through, have prepared me to inspire and connect with others.

Additionally, I overcame my fear of public speaking when I delivered my first speaking engagement to youth, which was a success. That experience has given me confidence to expand my reach, and I envision “Hello World” becoming a household phrase on a global platform.

In essence, my business idea is rooted in authenticity, resilience, and empowerment, while encouraging others to embrace their true selves and share their stories with the world.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business, Hello World, stands apart because of our focus on impact, influence, and authentic connection within the community and beyond. What sets us apart is our commitment to staying true to our mission of empowering individuals to embrace their true selves and share their stories with confidence.

Getting to where we are today required faith, persistence, and consistency. It was definitely not easy; there were challenges and moments of doubt along the way. However, we overcame those obstacles by remaining focused on our end goal: building a platform that inspires and unites people worldwide. We believe that with unwavering dedication and a clear vision, anything is possible.

One of the most important lessons I’ve learned along the way is that consistency is key. There will be days when I feel like quitting, but I’ve realized that pushing through and continuing despite the lack of immediate progress is what truly makes a difference. I’ve come to understand that God is working behind the scenes and will reward my efforts in due time. Additionally, I’ve learned not to listen to everyone’s opinions or limitations, if I have passion for my business or idea, I must keep striving and trust that my destiny is in my hands. No one should define or confine me to a mold or place they think I should be; I am in control of my journey.

I want the world to know that Hello World is rooted in love, support, motivation, encouragement, and empowerment. It’s a space where people can be free, bold, and fearless, while encouraging others to stand confidently in what they believe in. I want everyone to understand that they should never succumb to someone else’s expectations or the process of trying to fit into a mold. This business is about embracing your authentic self and inspiring others to do the same.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Cheers to the best week ever:

Day 1: Welcome to Dallas!
Morning: Start with breakfast at Bread Winners Café in Uptown for a delicious and casual welcome.
Afternoon: Explore Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center.
Evening: Dinner at NIWA in Deep Ellum, famous for its mouthwatering Korean BBQ. My favorite. Afterwards, enjoy live music or local art at Deep Ellum’s vibrant street murals, bars, and live music venues like The Free Man or Three Links.

Day 2: Downtown & the Iconic Sites
Morning: Visit the John F. Kennedy Memorial and Dealey Plaza for a historical perspective.
Afternoon: Head to *Reunion Tower for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Dine at Dallas Chop House or The Rustic, then relax with drinks at Happiest Hour, a rooftop bar with great city views.

Day 3: Nature & Local Charm
Morning: Explore Klyde Warren Park and grab brunch from food trucks (Fletchers, my go to) or nearby cafes.
Afternoon: Walk through Bishop Arts District, grab tacos from Birrieria Aguinaga. Daiquiri’s from Southern Classic Daiquiri Factory.
Evening: Enjoy dinner at Hattie’s for Southern comfort food, then drinks from the Tipsy Alchemist.

Day 4: Sports & Adventure
Morning: Visit the Dallas Cowboys Stadium or American Airlines Center (we may can catch a game depending on the season.
Afternoon: Chill at White Rock Lake, rent bikes or paddle boats, and enjoy the scenic views.
Evening:* Casual dinner at The Lot at White Rock Lake,

Day 5: Culture & History
Morning: Head to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science for interactive exhibits.
Afternoon: Desserts at D’ Caramel Patisserie in Southlake
Evening:* Dine at Grimaldi’s for Wine Pizza & Pasta

Day 6: Unique Dallas Experiences
Morning:* Visit the George W. Bush Presidential Center.
Afternoon: Foot massages at YaYa’s in Bishop Arts & Margarita’s from Abuela’s or the Crab Pot.
Evening:* Experience Dallas nightlife at Komodo Dallas for unique cuisines, cocktails and lively atmospheres.

Day 7: Relax & Reflect
Morning: Brunch at The Henry or Taco Lingo in Uptown.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through Katy Trail. Manicure/Pedicures at Kalos & Muse nails.
Evening: Wrap up the trip with a farewell dinner at Paparazzi Chophouse, celebrating a week of unforgettable memories.

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 would like to dedicate this shout-out to my husband (Morgan Moore, DBE, LLC.) and my sister (Nigeal S. Fisher, The Mag LLC) for their unwavering support and encouragement. Their love and belief in me have been a constant source of strength on my journey, and I am forever grateful for their support.

Website: https://www.helloworldusa.co

Instagram: @helloworld_u_s_a

Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/in/essencestokes

Facebook: Hello World USA

Youtube: @HelloWorld_USA

Image Credits
Photo Credit: Jessy J Photo