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

Hi Melissa, have you ever found yourself in a spot where you had to decide whether to give up or keep going? How did you make the choice?
When I started my business I thought to myself what are you doing? What are you getting yourself into? However, I told myself if you don’t believe in yourself nobody else will. I attended my first vendor event after only a few months of starting my business, it was the best experience ever. After witnessing people’s reaction and the demand for my product I was ready for more. I had participated in my fourth pop-up/vendor event right before covid-19 shut the city (Austin) down. A month passed before I sold any glasses and I was devastated, but I looked at my son and knew I couldn’t give up give up. My son is my motivation! Being quarantined gave me a chance to get my website up and running and get back focused.

For those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Z’ShadeZ is a mood. Z’ShadeZ is one of a kind. You can be feeling down and out, but soon as you put on a pair of Rich Auntie or Paparazzi Z’ShadeZ they’ll have you feeling like a brand new person. Starting my own business has been scariest, most rewarding experience of my life. I’m grateful to be around so many business oriented people. I learn something new everyday and apply is to my business.

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?
It’s HOT in Texas and my all time favorite place to go is schlitterbahn. I should’ve been a water sign because I love swimming and being in water. My favorite place to drink and hang out is Pappasitos, where I can get me a Grand Gold margarita. I love a nice Sunday funday at the Domain where we start off at The Park and then either end up at Dogwood or KungFu.

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 have to give a shoutout to my son, Zion Clarence. He is my biggest fan and biggest inspiration. Next my sister, Jessica Miller of Jess Braids for always pushing me. She’s my right hand man.. Lastly my good suh Marissa Hornsby of House of Noelle for mentioning me to Voyage. From the first time i met her at my very first vendor event it’s been nothing but good times and great vibes.

Website: www.zshadez.com
Instagram: Instagram.com/zshadez
Facebook: Jeweled by Jalise’

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