Today we’d like to introduce you to Adrian Jenkins.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Prior to launching Dandelions Designs, I worked in Corporate America as an Information Technology professional at the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. I have always had a love for things that are beautiful and fresh, which prompted me to start a floral business while still working in Corporate America. Working as a florist is still my first love but staging and design are my passion. When my contract ended with the CDC, I took a big leap of faith. That’s huge coming from someone who is a master planner, but I never looked back. This was the most challenging and scariest time OF MY LIFE. Even when I had the opportunity to go back to Corporate America, I didn’t because my business was so busy. I’ve always heard from my family, friends, and colleagues that I should become a stager and designer, but I always wondered if I could make money doing something that I love. It’s crazy that now I can say, oh yea, it is possible to work and have fun.
Although I have a business degree, it is a different world when you have to execute what you learned in college into your own business because it’s very personal. If my business failed, then I’ve failed. Although I have an eye for things that are beautiful, there is an operational business side to it as well. In my line of work, I wear many hats. In addition to the purchasing, planning, hiring, marketing, designing, you can also see me physically moving furniture. I now know the true meaning of blood, sweat, and tears. Oh yes, I’ve cried, especially in the beginning, through the growing pains. I have also cried with joy after achieving my goals and experiencing success.
Although I’ve come very far from where I started, my vision for Dandelions Designs is very big, I still have a long way to go, but I Can Do All Things Through Christ Who Strengthens Me (Philippians 4:13). This has been my go-to scripture during this journey that GOD has put me on. If GOD had not shown me in a dream what my path was, I would still be working for someone else to help them fulfill their dreams. This GOD given passion excites me and awakens my soul. It drives me like nothing else. To see a blank canvas come together with different colors, textures, fabrics, brings my joy to my heart.
There were times when I wanted to throw in the towel and go back to the corporate world, but I’m not built to quit. This business has taught me that you have to believe in yourself, even when others may doubt you. You must have crazy faith and trust in the process. A lot of people give up right before their breakthrough. When one door closes, cry, but keep pushing, because there are 20 other doors that will be open. We are so excited about what’s in store for Dandelions Designs.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
One of the challenges is determining exactly what your client wants. I strive to make others happy. I listen intensely, take detailed notes, and ultimately pour my heart into my craft. Another challenge has been finding a team to grow with you, believe in what you believe in and stick with you through thick and thin. I’ve learned that no one can do everything and you have to have people around you who believe in you and have a genuine interest in what you are building. My friend and business partner, Heather Paulin and I share a deep passion for Staging and Design. We have a lot of ideas and visions for Dandelions Designs and this is our year of execution.
There were times when I wanted to throw in the towel and go back to the corporate world, but I’m not built to quit. This business has taught me that you have to believe in yourself, even when others may doubt you. You must have crazy faith and trust in the process. A lot of people give up right before their breakthrough. When one door closes, cry, but keep pushing, because there are 20 other doors that will be open. We are so excited about what’s in store for Dandelions Designs.
When I look back on where I started, all I can say is TO GOD BE THE GLORY. We all have a passion. Dig deep and find yourself, it will pay off. I was scared to death and to be honest, there are times that I am still afraid, but I keep walking because I know GOD is with me. You know that you are on the right path when you are faced with obstacles all around you, personally and professionally, but continue to walk because those obstacles are what builds character, faith, strength, and endurance because one day they will all be a part of YOUR STORY.
Dandelions Designs Home Staging and Redesign – what should we know? What do you do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Dandelions Designs is a Premier Home Staging, Design, and Custom Renovations Company serving the Greater Metro Atlanta area. Our clients include Home Owners, Realtors, Investors, and Builders. We have been in the Design Industry for over five years. In choosing the name of my company, I wanted a name that was meaningful, unique, and something that I loved. My daughter’s name is Dani and I love flowers so naturally, Dandelions Designs was a match made in heaven.
We are most proud that our clients have entrusted us to deliver the best value for their staging investment. When a property that we have staged is under contract within the first week, we are elated! What sets us apart is our dedication, loyalty, integrity, and going above and beyond for our clients by any means necessary. We understand that potential buyers decide within 15 seconds of walking into a property whether or not the home is right for them. Our mission is to help our clients attract as many potential buyers as possible and to sell for top dollar.
What is “success” or “successful” for you?
Success is achieving our goals and visions that I have set for Dandelions Designs. I define success by meeting the needs of my clients and connecting with them on a level that we can effectively communicate what our staging and design project goals are. Success is also ensuring that our clients are satisfied with our level of service, our design work, and our ability to work as a team, Having a team that is also dedicated to the overall mission of the company is also a true measure of success for Dandelions Designs.
Contact Info:
- Phone: 404-731-1793
- Email: Dandelionsatl@gmail.com
- Instagram: Dandelionsdesignsatl
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DandelionsDesignsATL/
- Website: www.DandelionsDesigns.com
Image Credit:
B.MARS Photography
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