Today we’d like to introduce you to Shonica Crocker.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I am 37 y/o woman born and raised in Miami, Florida. I moved to Atlanta in 1998 and attended College at Clark Atlanta University. In 2002, I obtained my BA of Psychology (Honors). After college, I navigate through several career fields, successful at many, but ended up in a field not particularly connected to my degree.
Vision for Burn Lounge flourished in 2014. The idea was cultivated with one simple thought, “Bring a little culture to the Southside of Atlanta”. Burn Lounge is a full-service restaurant lounge that specializes in hookah, Southern-infused taps, and cultured spirits. I have been in business for 3 years and recently created its sister company Burn Cigar Lounge, Located directly next door.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Nothing about entrepreneurship is smooth… LOL! The key to success, I believe is consistency and follow through! You have to take the good with the bad. Some of the struggles I have experienced is trying to maintain consistent standards, customer service and staying up on market trends.
In the hospitality business, customer service is a must! Finding and hiring qualified people with integrity and impeccable work ethic is the hardest to find. Being that I have a high volume, mostly cash-based business theft and dishonesty are challenging to get a grip on. But I try to maintain an “Anything is possible” attitude and stay ahead of the curve. As long as the follow-through is where it all can be worked out.
Burn Lounge Atlanta – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
Burn Lounge is a Full-Service Restaurant and Lounge the specializes in southern infused small plates, Hookahs, and craft cocktails. I am the Owner and I specialize in Operations and Brand development. I am known for my “find A way or Make One” approach to business.
I am most proud of being consistent and lasting 3 years in a mostly male-dominated, fast-paced competitive business. My business is only of its kind in South Atlanta. I think of it as a Buckhead nightlife experience in an urban community. Equipped with community style seating, tapas, and hookahs, with an ambiance of a club feel of the likes of a South Beach Clubs.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
The fact that I have created a stream of income and jobs for people in a community where jobs are slim. I get pure pleasure knowing that my efforts help others live a good life. Blessing others keep my blessings overflowing… I’m grateful!
Pricing:
- $5 dollar drinks all night
- all food priced under $13
Contact Info:
- Address: 3461 Roosevelt Highway
Atlanta GA 30349 - Website: www.burnloungeatl.com
- Phone: 4044647177
- Email: shonica@burnloungeatl.com
- Instagram: burnloungeatl
- Facebook: burnloungeatl
- Twitter: burnloungeatl
Credit Image:
WednesdayATL Photography and Blowvision Photography
Getting in touch: VoyageATL is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
