Story & Lesson Highlights with Ebony Whitson of Waukesha County

We’re looking forward to introducing you to Ebony Whitson. Check out our conversation below.

Ebony, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What are you most proud of building — that nobody sees?
For a long time, I was on a silent journey of self-reflection—one that was messy, uncomfortable, and painful, but necessary. I didn’t realize how far I had sunk until it was too late. My business was stagnant, my family was falling apart, and I was supposed to be the glue that held it all together. Instead, I was crumbling on the inside.

When I finally stopped running from the truth, I had to admit the problem was me. I was spiritually empty, emotionally drained, and physically sick. For years I silently battled fibroids, ignoring my health while carrying the weight of everything else. I had been sick for so long that I didn’t even remember what “healthy” felt like. It wasn’t until I chose to prioritize myself, to have the surgery I needed, that I began to truly heal.

But the deepest part of my healing wasn’t just physical—it was spiritual. I had to reconnect with my faith. I had to stop leaning on my own strength and start leaning on God’s. Through prayer, surrender, and developing a real relationship with Jesus, I began to find my purpose and my true identity in Him. He reminded me that I am not defined by my struggles, my business, or even the roles I play for others. I am His.

This journey hasn’t been easy, but it has been transformative. And I know I’m not alone. So many women are silently suffering with uterine fibroids, carrying pain they think they just have to live with. But we don’t have to suffer in silence. Healing is possible—physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Today, I can honestly say I feel stronger, healthier, and more at peace than I have in years. My body has healed, my spirit has been renewed, and my purpose is clear. I’m walking boldly in who God has called me to be, and I’m grateful for the second chance He’s given me. This battle that once broke me has now built me, and I know it can do the same for others.

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am an event planner and designer turned floral preservation artist. Four years ago, during COVID, when in-person events were no longer possible, I searched for a way to keep my business alive. I returned to my creative roots—designing tumblers—and discovered the art of preserving florals.

What started as a way to stay afloat soon became something deeper. Even as the world opened back up and events returned, my floral preservation quietly continued, thriving purely through word of mouth—one meaningful order leading to the next. Over time, I realized I was being called to this work. Creating lasting keepsakes from life’s most meaningful flowers wasn’t just creative—it was purposeful. Each piece I crafted became part of a family’s story, a tangible memory preserved for generations.

Today, that passion has grown into WWP Design and Decor, a brand built on intention, artistry, and care. At WWP Design and Decor, we preserve your most meaningful moments with timeless, handcrafted keepsakes designed to reflect your unique story. Based in Menomonee Falls, WI, our custom creations are made with precision and heart—transforming cherished memories into stunning heirlooms.

We are more than a creative business—we are memory keepers. With every bloom preserved, we help families honor their milestones, celebrate love, and carry beauty forward in ways that last forever.

Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
If I had the confidence I walk in today back when I was younger, I can only imagine how different my life might have been. But I carry no regrets, because every experience has shaped me into who I am now. For too long, I believed the lies that I was worthless, unwanted, and without value. I let fear and doubt control my steps.

Today, I know better. I know I was created with purpose. I believe in the promises of God, and I trust the plan He has for my life (Jeremiah 29:11). I know that He is for me and not against me, and that every trial, every mistake, and every setback will ultimately work together for my good (Romans 8:28).

This confidence isn’t built on what I’ve done, but on who He is. And because of that, I walk boldly, with peace in my heart and faith in my future.

Is there something you miss that no one else knows about?
I once lived in Chicago, and although the circumstances of my move there weren’t the best, it remains one of the greatest places I’ve ever experienced. I had the opportunity to stay and build a life, but with two small children depending solely on me, fear set in and I didn’t take the leap. Today, I still get to enjoy Chicago—I visit often, network, run my business, and have built a meaningful life there, even without residing in the city. Chicago will always hold a special place in my heart.

I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Where are smart people getting it totally wrong today?
So much of the world puts emphasis on education, career success, corporate growth, money, and the value of our homes, cars, and possessions. But when you strip it all away, what truly matters is life, love, and family. The things you can’t touch or measure—the intangibles—are what reveal your real worth. They are the true markers of growth, accomplishment, and legacy.

Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you knew you had 10 years left, what would you stop doing immediately?
If I only had ten years left, I would stop working immediately. I’d spend my days intentionally—visiting family and friends, loving people well, and sharing the good news of the Gospel. I’d make every moment count so that when my time here ends, I’d leave with no regrets and with the sure hope that we’ll all be reunited.

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