We were lucky to catch up with Keisha Henson Shaw recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Keisha , really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?
A Purpose Found During a Pandemic
Like many others, I spent the early days of 2020 trying to figure out how to fill the hours during the Covid lockdown. I have always considered myself a creative person, but never had the time to really pursue anything substantive. Suddenly, time was abundant but opportunities were scarce.
One day, I started experimenting with foam board and a hot glue gun, making letters, numbers, bears, ballerinas – whatever came to mind. I posted some photos on social media and was surprised by the enthusiastic response. People started asking if they could buy the items. I realized this could be an opportunity to generate some income during a difficult time.
I began watching YouTube videos to pick up tips from woodworkers and makers. I invested in tools and practiced different techniques until I was creating items I was proud of. I launched a small event rental company called CreativeKei, focused on giant marquee letters, numbers, arches and other décor.
What began as a way to stay occupied during the pandemic has become my purpose and passion. I found an outlet for my creativity that brings me joy and fulfillment. While the future remains uncertain, I feel fortunate to have found both a means of income and a sense of purpose during this time. My advice is to never stop exploring your interests and trying new things. You never know what might emerge as your purpose. Staying open to possibilities and channeling your creativity can lead to opportunities even during the darkest of days. That is how I found my purpose in the unlikeliest of places – during a global crisis that brought much of the world to a standstill. Purpose has a way of finding you when you need it most.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
I grew up in Kansas City, Missouri, graduating high school in 2007 with no real plan for my future. I tried college a few times, but quickly realized it just wasn’t for me. I felt like I had a greater purpose in life beyond academics. It took some time, but I eventually found that purpose in business and entrepreneurship.
I’m a creative person at heart – I love thinking outside the box. Arts, skating, music, travel – those are the things that feed my soul. Over the years, I’ve realized that I want to take on more of a leadership role, helping others bring their business dreams to life. Many of my friends are entrepreneurs, and I’m constantly brainstorming ideas and suggesting strategies to help them grow. My newest aspiration is to become a creative director, focusing specifically on photo shoots. I’m in the process of building a team and making connections with other local business owners. I’m so excited for my first official photo shoot coming up this Valentine’s Day!
It’s been a journey, but I’m learning to put my own happiness first, both personally and professionally. Focusing on what fulfills me has led to beautiful things so far, and I can’t wait to see what’s next. The future is wide open, and I’m ready to creatively make it my own, one adventure at a time.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Building a successful business requires more than just money and motivation. It takes passion, perseverance, and people skills. Let me share three key abilities that I believe are essential for any aspiring entrepreneur.
First, you need a deep passion for what you’re doing. Starting a business is hard work filled with long hours, tough decisions, and countless obstacles. The path to profitability can take years. Without genuine excitement for your products or services, it’s easy to get discouraged and give up prematurely. Approach your venture with childlike enthusiasm. Let your passion shine through in every customer interaction.
Second, be open and eager to keep learning and growing. No one masters business overnight. Take classes, join organizations like SCORE that offer free mentoring, read books by successful founders. Absorb as much knowledge as you can from those who’ve come before you. Pay attention to industry trends and be willing to adapt. Stagnation is the enemy of lasting success. Stay humble, ask questions, and find mentors.
Finally, remember that customers are the lifeblood of any business. Provide such exceptional service that people can’t stop raving about you. At the same time, don’t be afraid to stand firm on policies, terms and conditions. Educate customers upfront to avoid misunderstandings. When issues inevitably arise, address them professionally and compassionately. Aim for balanced, respectful relationships.
With your passion as the foundation, a teachable attitude as your pillar, and customer care as your guidepost, you have the framework and focus to turn your business dreams into reality. It won’t be quick or easy, but I believe in you! Now get out there and make it happen.
One of our goals is to help like-minded folks with similar goals connect and so before we go we want to ask if you are looking to partner or collab with others – and if so, what would make the ideal collaborator or partner?
As a creative business owner in the events industry, collaboration has been key to my success. I have built up connections with others who share my passion for delivering memorable experiences. Over the years, I have partnered with many talented event specialists in my area. Through dedication to customer service and high quality rentals, I have become a preferred vendor for several venues and planners.
There is power in partnership. By working together, we are able to provide our clients with a seamless experience from start to finish. What one business may lack, another can provide. Our collaborations have allowed us each to play to our strengths while still meeting the needs of our clients.
I am always looking to build new relationships with others in the events field. A shared commitment to excellence and a desire to see each other succeed has been the foundation for so many of my past collaborations. By lifting each other up, we are all able to achieve more together. My business has been blessed by the connections I have made, and I strive to be a blessing to others in return through continued partnership and collaboration.
The events world is fast-paced, personal, and creative. But when you find others with a shared passion for connecting people through unforgettable experiences, there is an instant camaraderie. By partnering together, we are able to make the impossible possible for our clients. And at the end of the day, that is the greatest reward. My business is built on relationships – with my clients, with other vendors, and with the community. Collaboration allows those relationships, and my business, to thrive. I hope to find many more opportunities for partnership as my business continues to grow.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.creativekei.me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creative_kei
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100063690782941
Image Credits
Ronni Grand Photography Shawn Riddle
