Community Highlights: Meet Justin And Kristen Owen of Elevate

Today we’d like to introduce you to Justin And Kristen Owen.

Hi Justin and Kristen, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
We are entrepreneurs who cherish the freedom to pursue bold new ventures while keeping family at the heart of everything we do. As proud parents of two boys, ages 15 and 12, we balance our professional ambitions with the joy and responsibility of raising our family.
With roots in the security industry, we’ve always been drawn to fresh opportunities and creative challenges. In recent years, we’ve found deep fulfillment in revitalizing historic properties and breathing new life into them. The beautiful building in downtown Cartersville, rich with character and dating back to the late 1800s, once housed a beloved antique mall and now stands poised for its next chapter.
Elevate was thoughtfully created as a refined gathering place where connection thrives. Whether for memorable events, meaningful socializing, or purposeful networking, it offers a sophisticated and intentionally designed environment that honors the building’s heritage while welcoming the future.

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?
One of our biggest challenges has been stepping into an entirely new industry. It’s been a learning curve, but we’ve been fortunate to have incredible support from our team and partners in the community every step of the way.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We are an upscale social lounge designed to bring people together in a refined yet welcoming setting. Whether it’s live music on the weekends, private events, game nights, or small-to-large gatherings, we offer a space where guests can connect, celebrate, and unwind in an elevated environment.

What sets us apart is our thoughtfully curated selection of high-end wines, bourbons and whiskeys, and signature craft cocktails paired with an atmosphere that feels both sophisticated and approachable. Our designer, Shena Sabens, has created a space that offers a polished experience and feels truly unique to the community, while still remaining comfortable and inviting.

At our core, we’re most proud of the experience we’ve built. Every detail, from the ambiance to the service, is designed to make people feel comfortable while still enjoying something a little more special. We want our guests to know that whether they’re stopping in for a drink, hosting an event, or simply spending time with friends, they can expect a setting that feels intentional, elevated, and genuinely welcoming.

Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
Starting out comes with a steep learning curve, and a lot of it really is learning as you go. One of the most important things we’ve learned is to hire the right people early on; those with both experience and a great attitude. The right team makes all the difference.

It’s important to be intentional with your decisions when it comes to hiring, and major purchases such as inventory. At the same time, you have to stay flexible and adaptable, because not everything will go according to plan.

Most importantly, enjoy the process. There will always be challenges, but building something of your own should also be fun and rewarding along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.ElevateCartersville.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elevate.cartersville?igsh=MTRoeDRzbDFlOHZjZw%3D%3D&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1VLf4xRhW2/?mibextid=wwXIfr