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

Hi Lauren, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
When we were first getting Union Worx going, there was almost no balance—dedicating nearly all of our mental and physical energy to launching our business. We eventually opened our doors, and as we ironed out the wrinkles and kept working on improving our brand message, offering, and processes, things started to fall into place. After many long days, short nights, and full weekends. Time, slowly, became more available. We eventually were able to take one entire Friday afternoon off and were promptly punished for it by getting a flat tire on our way of town. But that’s another story. Not to say all of the work isn’t worth it. Union Worx and the community of members we built is our passion. As we’ve gotten into the groove of running the space, organizing our community, and growing our business, we’ve been able to carve out some time for the other things in life.

Please tell us more about your business. We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today business-wise. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
The biggest lesson for us was patience. The build-up to getting our doors open was a long, slow road. Learning patience in dealing with delays, permits, documents, construction, bankers, marketing, and everything it takes to get a business off the ground can be a grueling process. When you have this idea, that you know the world needs, and you want everyone to see it come to life. Because you’ve put every ounce of your effort into making happen.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
We’re going to pretend it’s the best of times, and COVID is not a thing like it is today. We’d start by meeting at Union Worx and strolling across the street to 4 Kahuna’s Tiki Lounge for some Mai Tai’s and Painkillers. After the tiki, we’d head to Lone Star Axe Throwing to throw some axes and maybe let the losers buy dinner at The Tipsy Oak or Cartel Taco.. winners choice! Both have great patios. The next night we’d definitely start off in the Legal Draft Brewery taproom before heading to the Levitt Pavilion for some FREE live music under the stars. Not forgetting to grab some picnic snacks at Inspirations Gourmet Shop and a little dessert at Sugar Bee Sweets. We’d try to squeeze some time for a little bit of a nature walk at River Legacy Park, followed by some pool time at the Live by Loews, awesome pool deck. Of course, no trip to DFW is complete without at least a couple margaritas at Joe T Garcia’s. Their fajitas are pretty good too! A drive through the Stock Yards is always a crowd-pleaser for folks from out of state, and the mechanical bull at Billy Bob’s can either make or break a night.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
The truth is we wouldn’t be anywhere without our amazing members. They have been our cheerleaders, and at times they have shown their support in surprising ways. We had one member smoke briskets and served BBQ during a 4th of July party on our patio. Other members have taken amazing photos for us to use on our social pages. One member surprised us by dropping a mention into the dedication of a novel written in our space. Most of all, every member that has encouraged someone to come and try us out. Also, shoutout worthy, the other businesses in our neighborhood have always been amazing as well. From the time we opened our doors, they have been there to help us. Bring over fantastic food, making sure our keg is always full is something we don’t take for granted. We all opened around the same time, and we are all willing to work together and help each other when we can. We would like to give a special shoutout to Legal Draft Brewery, Tipsy Oak, Sugar Bees Sweets, and Inspirations Catering for all the love.

Website: https://www.unionworx.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/union_worx
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unionworx
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Union_Worx
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnionWorx
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/union-worx-coworking-arlington
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCtCvM02j3uOLwpd-2GBw0Pw?view_as=subscriber

Image Credits
Jillian Zamora Courtney Hale Danielle Nicole

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