Today we’d like to introduce you to Danette Mahabeer-Turner.
Hi Danette, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Seven years ago, my life was completely changed. I became a first-time mother and a single mother. Starting all over from scratch, I remember working three jobs at one point just to make ends meet and to be able to save. Eventually, in late 2018, I launched my first business venture, a mobile photography company called Little London Photography. The name was inspired by my beautiful daughter Soheila London, and the aim was to create a legacy for her. While working my regular 9-5 job as well as side gigs, I invested time and energy in not only Little London Photography but began exploring other sources of income that would eventually create financial freedom and flexibility. I was longing for an excellent work-life balance and I was determined to find it.
I became a serial entrepreneur. I was thirsty for success. I decided to pursue and obtain a second degree under my belt. I enrolled in Trevecca Nazarene University and successfully obtained a Bachelor of Arts in Business Management and Leadership. I then launched Zumba Nashville. I started out offering Zumba classes, Yoga classes, and Mindfulness sessions in nearby parks such as Cleveland Park and Shelby Park. The turnout was mind-blowing so I then started to collaborate with various fitness centers across the city, offering my classes as part of their programs. Well, that wasn’t enough for me. I strongly believe in the seven sources of income approach. As a Domestic Violence Survivor, I decided to write and publish my first book titled “Leave Alive,” subtitled “Goodbye Domestic Violence.” Although a source of income, residual income, and royalties, etc., this book is an act of service for me to give back by offering guidance and advise based on personal experience of domestic violence to current domestic violence victims.
I then became a Certified Life, Career, and Business Coach. With a raving five-star Google page, clients nationally and internationally are able to utilize my services in person or virtually. In 2023, I launched a mobile notary business, offering mobile notary services in two states: Tennessee and Kentucky. I am also a National Wedding Officiant and Ordained Minister. The last two ventures are co-owned by my Korean husband, Matthew Turner, and I: Loopy Larry’s and JamaiKorean.
Loopy Larry’s is a soup, salad, and Sandwiches restaurant located in Paducah, KY, which we are now in the process of expanding to either a second location or an independent franchising package. JamaiKorean is a brand that was inspired by our unique cultures and Nationalities. I am Jamaican, and my husband is Korean. JamaiKorean is our newest venture, and we are getting ready to launch our very own candles this fall. We are super excited about the unique and rare candle scents that we will be launching. Some of the candle scents are inspired by items on our menu at Loopy Larry’s as well as unique food items from our cultures.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Nothing good comes easy. Hardwork leads to success. The heights of great men reached and kept were not attained by sudden flight. It took a lot of hard work and dedication to get where we are today with these business ventures. It took a lot of marketing and promotions to get our brands to where they are today. As for Loopy Larry’s, Covid was a setback. Nevertheless, unlike many businesses which closed their doors, Loopy Larry’s survived and is going on out 5th year in business. The restaurant was closed for months, which affected annual sales. However, our service and food kept them coming, and here we are today.
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I am a jane of all trades and an octopus. I evaluate the market and see what needs are unmet and simply create an opportunity to fulfill those needs. For example, outside of normal business hours, it is impossible to get documents notarized, and sometimes that’s all the time that people have to get what they need done; especially if a document requires multiple signatures. I understand that normal business hours do not meet the needs of those who need notarized documents. So, I created a mobile notary business in two states: Tennessee and Kentucky. Not only do I operate outside of normal business hours and days, I also come to you, which makes it super convenient for a lot of people.
I am most proud of my journey. There have been good days and bad days, but they all taught me resilience and determination. I never gave up or gave in. I am constantly looking for opportunities that will set me apart from others. I am therefore set apart from others because I look for the unmet needs and basically create and provide the services needed. As a Certified Life Coach, I understand that clients will not always be able to come to an office for their sessions, so I created virtual sessions which are offered nationally and internationally. I am purposeful and resourceful, and that’s what sets me apart from others.
We all have a different way of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
Success to me is a bunch of little failures. From these failures, I’ve learned and grown. I’ve gained experience, knowledge, and wisdom. The failures made me stronger and smarter. Success is consistency and dedication.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.google.com/search?q=Danette%20Mahabeer%20-%20Life%20Coach%20-%20Nashville,%20TN&ludocid=10134320488246111779&ibp=gwp;0,7&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwjX04v_6ICCAxWnmokEHWdYCooQ_coHegQIGBAB&biw=360&bih=705&dpr=3
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/DanetteMahabeer
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/DanetteMahabeer
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danette-mahabeer-turner
- Youtube: www.Youtube.com/DanetteMahabeer
- Other: https://canvasrebel.com/meet-danette-mahabeer/
Image Credits
Little London Photography
