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

Hi Jodi, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my business was independency and stability! I love the fact that I have the ability to choose how I start my day. I’ve never been the type to comply by rules of societal 9-5’s, and even when I was working full-time, I was building a master plan of how to branch out! I’m meant to be an independent artist, floating free as a butterfly on my terms.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I was born a creator, but that wouldn’t be possible without the Creator! God blessed me with multiple talents, and every artist must know that we are just the vessel. That’s what sets me apart from alot because I’m not arrogant nor dwell in my accomplishments. I own it and take great pride in it, but I don’t let it define me. It’s crucial to remain humble and modest as you reach success because the universe will have a way of knocking you down on your feet again.

I got to where I am today professionally by taking accountability and self reflection. No one’s perfect, and when you’re trying to reach your highest peak you have to think about times were you’ve faced challenges. I’ve had to think to myself what could I have done better as far as representation or skill set, and look into ways I can rebrand myself for greater opportunities to align with my aspirations for success.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I’m a huge foodie!
I love Sushi Axiom off Lemmon Ave in Dallas! Their happy hour is bomb and I frequently visit sometimes just for their mimosas and lamb chops lol!
Another great spot is Sura Korean BBQ off of 35 N and Royal lane. They have the best Bulgogi, and it’s such a quiet serene place to eat especially dining alone.
At&t Discovery District Downtown Dallas is a cool place to hang out, play corn hole, get some fresh air,and explore the different eateries they have to offer.

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 first give recognition to my family especially my mother and father. My parents have always been supportive of any creative endeavor that I have decided to go on. My father always encouraged creative freedom, and my mother supported me as an artist as well but insisted that I always had a back up plan. Having a back up plan is so important, and may be the reason I have my hands working in so many places, wearing different “suits” throughout my career. Aside from being an artist, I’ve also worked in finance and continued my education in all lines of insurance. You need to be able to draw different cards depending on your circumstances in life you’re dealt with. Growing up, the Garland family had always inspired me from owning multiple family businesses that have been successful for decades. Even when they had to go back to the drawing board, they rebuilt and evolved greater than before. I was raised around entrepreneurial mindframes so it has always been instilled in me that I can do it too. My mother and my grandmother were very influential hard working women, becoming established in their careers in law and nursing. Hard work and dedication is in my bloodline. As I started my career as a cosmetologist, I had great mentors that would often pull me aside to give me constructive criticism. It helped me build my professionalism, and I’m glad they did because I used to be a little spicy haha! As we all know, customer service can be challenging, but you have to keep your game face on or as I call it “poker face” and not let anyone phase you and corrupt your career over a 30 min interaction.

Instagram: AccentuatebyJodi

Facebook: AccentuatebyJodi

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.