Today we’d like to introduce you to Candace Thomas.
Candace, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Upon graduating from Alabama Agricultural & Mechanical University in 1998, I started my career as a Commissioned Army Medical Service Officer in 1998. After serving our country as an active duty soldier, I transitioned into the civilian world in 2002.
In 2004, I was accepted into the prestigious dental program of Howard University College of Dentistry, in Washington D.C., I graduated from Howard University College of Dentistry in 2008 and completed an Advanced Educational Degree in Dentistry program that following year.
I have been actively serving my local community in the field of dentistry for well over ten years, with an emphasis on treating disabled Veterans and other under-served citizens of our community.
I have always had the desire to serve and have done so for many years, however, there was always an underlying passion to, from time to time, step out of that structured world I’d carefully navigated within, and to venture into the carefree and whimsical world of event planning and hosting. And just like that, without further ado, the launching of Social Suite.
Social Suite is an intimate event venue located in Fayetteville, Ga. Our space is 3,000 sq/ft with an arctic white 12 feet high ceiling and crisp white walls. The industrial ceiling, high gloss natural colored concrete floors and open floor plan allows your guest to experience the city feel without the city fuss.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Throughout my journey, in general, there were many obstacles and challenges. Obstacles and challenges are to be expected with any journey when greatness and success is the end goal. While it is easiest to point out who, when, where and how those obstacles came to be, I challenge all women aspiring to excel, to take a closer look within themselves, you just may find that the biggest obstacle is “self.” We, often times, self-sabotage and question whether or not we are deserving and worthy of achieving. Above all, I have learned to access the situation, develop a plan, move out of MY own way and execute.
I give all praises to God and I look to the heavens for strength, guidance, and provisions. Hard work goes far, however, Grace and Mercy will always surpass.
What should we know about Social Suite? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
As the owner of Social Suite, it has always been my intent to offer an event venue that allows my customers to experience the urban city feel without the city fuss. I enjoy offering a space that doesn’t dictate to the customer which vendor they must use. My customers have the freedom to utilize vendors of their choice, with no additional fee to do so.
I enjoy offering a space for companies to bring their partners, employees, and team members, to socialize outside of the usual 9-5 business office space. We’ve hosted a variety of events that range from product launches to organized think tank sessions.
Above all, I enjoy being able to offer our space to certain non-profit organizations and individuals that are dear to our hearts, at no cost, service is sovereignty. All of the success in the world is useless if you are in a position to give back, help others and affect change, yet don’t do so. This philosophy allows me to rest comfortably each night knowing that my competition is not other surrounding venues, but rather my own goals, dreams, and aspirations to serve and help others.
Do you have any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general? What has worked well for you?
I am a firm believer in not trying to “re-invent the wheel.” I have never had a problem with seeking out individuals and/or companies that have implemented philosophies, products, and solutions I’d love to emulate. Prior to starting Social Suite, I strategically mapped out what I wanted to accomplish, and sought out mentors that were effectively succeeding in doing those very things. Sometimes, reaching out to others may require setting your pride aside, however, keeping in mind the end goal makes it more tolerable.
Contact Info:
- Address: Social Suite
1240 Hwy 54 W, Ste. 706
Fayetteville, GA 30214 - Website: www.socialsuiteatl.com
- Phone: 678-778-6105
- Email: hello@socialsuiteatl.com
- Instagram: socialsuiteatl
- Facebook: socialsuiteatl
Image Credit:
Kecia Stovall Photography
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