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

Hi Shonna, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor in my business is building customer relations. At Divine Ivy, we believe the customer is the most important part of the business. Our products, services, and community is built around the customer, and their wants and needs. We strive to not only create beautiful, quality products, but also a lifestyle that realistically embodies our customers in their day to day lives. Building a genuine brand is the result of Divine Ivy’s success. We are dedicated to building more than a retail experience for our customers, and believe the Divine Ivy experience is one that lasts much longer than the final checkout button. By building a community of value for our customers, we have created more than a dinnerware brand, but a lifestyle that brings others together to celebrate in their homes.

What should our readers know about your business?
I launched Divine Ivy in March of 2021 after spending five years in the event planning industry. Divine Ivy is a dinnerware company that curates beautiful table settings to bring others together around their dinner tables. Launching Divine Ivy had been a dream in the making for a few years. Being in the wedding and event industry, I have created some very extravagant and beautiful events and table settings. I wanted to bring this in to a more intimate setting, and nothing is more intimate than the dinner tables in our homes, where we gather everyday. I wanted to bring people fun and stylish place settings for everyday use and special occasions. Growing up, I remember how excited I was to help set the Christmas Table with my Grandmother. It’s those memories that I remember the most, even more so than the weddings or other events I have attended. So when the pandemic hit and the event industry halted, I launched into the home. It became even more evident how important it was going to be to bring people together to create memories in a safe place. When people think about Divine Ivy, they will see really pretty plates, bowls, flatware, and glassware. They will see place settings and beautiful tablescapes, but what they will remember is the moments they spent around the table with their friends and family. They will create traditions and lasting moments with the ones they love the most.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am glad that we have a week because there are so many interesting things to do and see in Dallas! Things that will top my list would be dinner with a view, probably a fun/hip spot like Monarch or CatBird. We would definitely soak in the beautiful sky line over dinner and drinks. During the days, we will spend an afternoon shopping, sipping, and eating around Bishop Arts District. It is such a fun place to shop and support small businesses. Up next, heading to Klyde Warren Park for some fresh air in the middle of downtown. Another go to spot will be to hit up a game at American Airlines. We are big sports people, and Dallas sure knows how to support their teams. And for Sunday Funday, we will head to Knox/Henderson for all the fun bars, bites, and indoor/outdoor fun within walking distance. One stop that is a non-negotiable is Felix Culpa, a small tappas lounge with the best food, drinks, and music!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I have been encouraged and supported by many people in my life and along my business journey. Two people in particular that I have to shoutout are my father, who has not only encouraged me to strive for crazy dreams, but also been there to help it all come together. I wouldn’t have been able to carry all of that inventory without him. I also want to shoutout my dear friend, Hannah Way, who so graciously believes in me and everything I do. Having her as a friend and business inspiration has pushed me to take risks and truly believe in myself and my mission.

Website: www.divineivy.com

Instagram: @divineivy

Linkedin: Shonna Gainey

Facebook: Divine Ivy

Image Credits
Megan Kay Photography Hannah Way Photography

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