Today, we’d like to introduce you to Tiea Whitaker. Tiea was introduced to us by the brilliant and talented Sandra N.
Tiea, thank you so much for joining us today. We’d love for you to bring our readers up to speed – can you introduce yourself and share your story?
I started my career working in corporate contracting. There was always an undeniable urge to step out and pursue my passion for fashion and entertainment that kept tugging at me.
In 2015, I took the leap and followed that inner calling by launching Shopaholic City as an online women’s boutique. Little did I know that the brand would evolve from an online business into a hub for fashion, media and entertainment, encompassing personal wardrobe styling and themed events. It was during this transformative period that I discovered my love and niche for creating and hosting events, and collaborating with fellow entrepreneurs, businesses, and the community.
Realizing the potential to merge my passions, I embarked on a journey to curate events that intertwined the elements of fashion while connecting with entrepreneurs offering various services sought after by their communities and surrounding areas. This exploration opened doors to new possibilities where I could foster collaboration, provide unique experiences, and create platforms for entrepreneurs to showcase their brands.
As Shopaholic City evolved, I found myself further immersed in the world of event curating, networking, and community engagement. It became clear that I could make a significant impact by organizing events that brought together like-minded individuals, celebrated fashion, and empowered entrepreneurs. The passion and dedication I poured into these events resonated with attendees and the wider community.
This realization led to the creation of the Success Diaries ‘Turning Your Dreams Into Reality’ event series, which became a platform connecting leaders in media, public relations, entertainment law, entertainers, artist management, indie labels, fashion tastemakers, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Through interactive chat and chew style events, we fostered dialogue, shared insights, and provided invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth.
I also created the Ready, Set, Soar Empowerment Series (RSS), encompassing webinars, workshops, teleconferences, and empowerment events. RSS became a transformative platform, equipping individuals with tools, resources, and support to shift their mindset, manifest happiness, abundance, and walk in their ordained purpose. The goal is to provide a platform for women that would aid in expanding their personal and professional network and teach them to utilize the inner tools they have to manifest the life of happiness and abundance they deserve.
When the COVID-19 Pandemic hit, I had to pause doing in-person events, and started hosting events virtually. This led me to tap into podcasting and writing.
Please tell us more about your brand, Fashion Life & Tea
I am the founder and owner of Shopaholic City and Fashion Life & Tea Media, the go to source for the latest in lifestyle, and entertainment media. Additionally, I am the Media Relations Specialist for one of the largest DJ Coalitions, the Worldwide Fleet DJs, where I collaborate with industry-leading professionals and support their endeavors. I am also the creator of several podcasts: “Girlfriends Guide to Quarantine,” “Locked-In with Tiea Whitaker Podcast,” and the “Success Diaries #Power Hour Podcast.” And co-creator and cast member of Chicks and Chipz with Tiea & Tameka YouTube Series. What sets my work apart is my deep passion for fostering connections and collaboration. I am dedicated to creating meaningful experiences, bridging gaps, and building strong networks within the industry. I am most proud of the impact made as a brand by fostering entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses. I take pride in curating events and experiences that inspire personal growth and celebrate the beauty of diversity. Through collaborations with over 50 small businesses across various cities, we have provided a platform for them to showcase their products and services. I am excited to announce my upcoming book release and my partnership with Generation DMV for their Men + Mental Health event series.
So, as we mentioned to our audience earlier, you were introduced to us by Sandra N and Just1PR, LLC and we really admire them and what they’ve built. For folks who might not be as familiar, can you tell them a bit about your experience with Just1PR, LLC.
I had the pleasure of meeting Sandra in 2015 at one of my events when she showed up to support and check it out after hearing about it. During our conversation, I discovered that Sandra had recently started her own public relations firm and possessed a wealth of knowledge in various industries, including entertainment, small business, and retail.
At the time, I was in the midst of planning my first panel-style event and saw an opportunity to invite Sandra as a guest speaker. She graciously accepted the invitation, and her presence was truly phenomenal. Sandra’s speaking style exuded motivation, inspiration, and humility, resonating deeply with the audience. Her insights and expertise were invaluable, prompting me to extend invitations for her to speak at other events I had lined up in various cities.
As we continued to work together, our connection grew stronger. Sandra’s wealth of knowledge and experience across different industries, combined with her motivational speaking style, made her a sought-after speaker by clients and event attendees alike. Her impact went beyond the stage, as clients started seeking her out for her exceptional public relations services.
Since that initial meeting, our rapport has remained strong. I continue to admire Sandra’s expertise, professionalism, and her commitment to delivering outstanding results for her clients. Our ongoing collaboration is a testament to the value she brings to the table and the trust we have built over the years.
Website: fashionlifeandtea.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tieawhitaker/?hl=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiea.whitaker?mibextid=LQQJ4d
