Today we’d like to introduce you to Savannah Crawford.
Savannah, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
It’s so funny how life is a full circle. I was just a year into writing affirmations in 2019 when I was presented with the opportunity to interview for Voyage ATL, the Trailblazer series. Thank you Carlton for recommending me and thank you VoyageATL, I’m honored to be recognized again! I was settling in as a new writer during my first interview and consistently posting my daily affirmation content. At the time, I struggled with the idea of classifying myself as a creator or writer. But, as time progressed so did I. So much has changed! Within the past four years of creating handwritten affirmations, I’ve immersed myself in creating an authentic, relatable safe space to inspire and encourage others through my writing. In December 2021, I finally launched my community-based platform, Savannah Says, separating the affirmations from my personal page and within months, I’ve gained over 300 supportive followers.
Amidst multiple conversations with people, I’ve found myself sharing what I’m passionate about (writing) and they’d say “Oh, THAT’S you?” “Do you really handwrite those affirmations? I thought it was an app you were using!”. I always happily decline and say, “Yes, that’s me and that’s my handwriting!” That reaction alone makes me feel so much gratitude knowing that my ability to touch the lives of others really encourages them in their darkest moments or even when I’m providing reassurance.
Along this journey, I’ve had the support and encouragement of my friends, family, and my audience to continue doing what I love. When people share how gifted, talented, and “right on-time” I am it’s the extra “oomph” that encourages me to keep pressing forward. I’ve discovered so much about myself as a recent college graduate, young Black woman, multi-faceted creative, a woman in tech, and just being…. Savannah. I know that the only way to move is forward and I can’t wait to see what my future holds! I guarantee you’ll see my name on your screens and in stores near you soon.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
The road has been anything but smooth and one major contribution to that is the Covid-19 pandemic. The emotions and feelings were uncomfortable to deal with but simultaneously positioned me for the better. I didn’t see it at first because I think the uncertainty of Covid, not knowing when or how long it would last, and possible long-term effects took a toll. However, it has allowed me to realize that life is fragile and short. It has given me new perspectives to write about seeing as though I’ve been writing from a different lens now. It allowed me to create a safe space for my audience to relate to the same things I’ve been experiencing.
Another struggle has been the internal battle between giving myself grace and setting REALISTIC expectations for myself! I’ve had to learn to be patient during my season of enduring. It’s so easy to get influenced by what others are doing, second guess yourself, or feel like you need to “catch up” or do better. A big lesson has been realizing that my journey is purposely one size fits ME. So, as I continue down the road, I’m learning to extend grace when needed, focus on healing, and transforming, and be true to myself along the way. My struggles have helped me embrace the imperfections of who I am, and I’m excited to see who I become.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work full-time as a Business Process Analyst Lead and Project Manager at Hewlett-Packard Enterprise for 3 years now. My passion has always been creating in all aspects, specifically digital content, and writing. I recently co-launched my social media management agency, So Social Media Club with my friend, partner, and co-founder, Jamila Bell. Throughout my time as a creative, I’ve learned how to study and analyze trends to increase analytics and insights with my keen eye for aesthetically pleasing content. I’m also the Showrunner for the production company Ring-A-Bell Productions. We are in the midst of our very first production, Goin Thru’ It written by Jamila (Ring-A-Bell’s Founder and Writer) and Dwight (Writer & Director). Be on the lookout as I join the writer’s room for Season 2! I’m so excited to put pen to paper as our story and creativity unfold to the world.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I’ve always gravitated towards women I considered like-minded, smart, and sophisticated. Networking comes easy to me because I’m a social person. People notice things in you and take a chance on you when they believe in your abilities and potential. For networking specifically, I would encourage asking about a person’s interests, and passions to spark conversation. I would also encourage leveraging conferences, conventions, panels, and events to grow your network and contact database. Personally, I think this helps to establish meaningful connections and seek out mentors for guidance.
Pricing:
- FREE Consultations!
- Instagram/TikTok Audit – $50
- Content Planning & Workshop | $300
- Social Media Bootcamp | $400
- Infographics, Flyers, & Other Digital Designs | $80
Contact Info:
- Website: sosocialmediaclub.my.canva.site
- Instagram: @thatssav_ | @savannahsays_ | @sosocial.mediaclub | @ringabell.productions
- LinkedIn: https://linktr.ee/allthingssav
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thatssav_/
Image Credits:
@shotbytybuggy
