Rising Stars: Meet Ciara Chapman of Newborn

Today we’d like to introduce you to Ciara Chapman.

Hi Ciara, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My journey has been filled with many ups and downs—different seasons that have shaped me into the woman I am today. Through trials and celebrations, I’ve grown into a strong, independent woman with a story of resilience and faith.

I graduated high school in 2019, having no idea what God had in store for me in the years ahead. I pursued my Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice: Crime Scene Investigation at Liberty University and completed it in less than two years, graduating in March 2021. However, I never ended up working in my field of study due to limitations in the surrounding area and medically.

Meanwhile, my now-husband, Shane—then my boyfriend—joined the Marine Corps during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. His military journey was nothing short of intense. What should have been a 13-week boot camp turned into 15 weeks, and the usual 10-day leave between duty stations was canceled. The two training schools he attended were also on lockdown, meaning no one in and no one out. For over a year, the only way we communicated was through letters and short texts. It wasn’t until after he hit the fleet that we were finally able to see each other in person again.

As I looked toward the future and realized my degree wouldn’t be the path forward, I leaned into prayer and sought guidance from my parents—my role models as well. My parents worked in the corporate world but are also successful entrepreneurs, so I trusted they would be honest with me and help guide me in the right direction. I’ve always looked up to them and their achievements, and with their advice—along with God’s wisdom and guidance—I finally felt like I was on the path I was meant to follow. In May 2022, I decided to pursue my real estate license. I completed my pre-licensing course in two weeks and became officially licensed just two weeks later. From May 2022 to August 2023, it was a rollercoaster of finding the right brokerage and support system. Eventually, I found a team that puts God first and truly feels like home. Even though I spent a lot of time traveling between Georgia and Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, where Shane was stationed, my current team and brokers supported me and taught me in whatever manner I needed.

In September 2023, I married my high school sweetheart. It was a dream come true after everything we had endured since 2019 alone, especially the long distance. But in February 2024, just five months into marriage, I got a call no wife wants: “Ciara, you need to get to the hospital as quickly and safely as you can. There’s been a freak motorcycle accident, and it doesn’t look good. They’re transferring him to Wilmington ICU.” By the grace of God, my husband is still here with us, fighting and even complaining every day. But that 6.5-hour drive from Georgia to Wilmington was the longest of my life, but our faith kept us grounded. Even now, a year and a half after the accident, God continues to carry us through Shane’s recovery.

In August 2024, Shane completed his military service and moved back to Georgia. Where we hit the ground running to figure out what life we want to live. Not only do I do real estate but on the weekends I also help run my family’s business, Teddy’s Adventures, where people of all ages can enjoy the fun of building a bear—without the need to travel to a mall. I bring the experience to local festivals, making it both accessible and memorable for everyone. But also, I’ve fully embraced real estate, dedicating myself to helping families transition into their next season of life. I entered this field to make the process less intimidating and stressful—for it to be rooted in support and understanding.

Real estate isn’t what social media makes it out to be. It’s not a get-rich-quick career—it takes time, heart, and building real relationships with your clients. But I’ve found purpose in helping families find the place they’ll call home, filled with memories, laughter, and even tears. Real estate is a career that’s always in demand. You’re your own boss, set your own hours, and create your own freedom. I’ve always believed that what you sow today will bloom in the future. Today, I work for my happiness, time freedom, and financial independence so that I truly can have freedom in all senses in the future. Did I mention I am only 24 years old?

This is only a glimpse of my story not to mention how it is still unfolding. The last few months alone I got my state cottage food license and have named my baking business Grace & Graze for the wonders God has for us and the tasty treats I create. I’m filled with hope and excitement for what’s still yet to come.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
Nothing about the road of life is ever smooth. There are always struggles, obstacles, and hardships along the way.

Personally, I faced challenges like transferring from the University of Tennessee to Liberty University Online. It was a difficult decision, but I prayed about it, and God placed the opportunity in my lap at just the right time. In my relationship, long distance was already a challenge, and adding the demands and restrictions of the military only made it harder. Then, the unexpected motorcycle accident completely uprooted our lives for nearly a year before my husband and I could finally return home to Georgia to continue his recovery.

Professionally, I discovered that the career path I had originally chosen wasn’t going to work out. Due to medical reasons, I was unable to pursue a role in my field, despite earning a degree that I am still proud of. Shifting to real estate wasn’t easy either—I had to navigate the pre-licensing course, earn the required hours, gather the necessary affidavits, and study intensely for the 152-question exam to become officially licensed which alone took 2 tries. Even after earning my license, I struggled to find the right team—one that would support me the way I truly needed. Not to mention I hadn’t yet at that time bought a home myself or taken out a loan, so I lacked the personal experience that helps many agents relate to their clients. When it comes to my baking business I just recently started the applications, samples, and inspections were lengthy and trying. Not even to mention the uphill battle I am currently in to grow my business.

In both my personal and professional life, I have always never been taken serious because I look too young, I am too young, I lack experience, or I am a woman.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I wear many hats in my professional life—I’m a baker, content creator, network marketer, owner of Teddy’s Adventures and a real estate professional. I specialize in helping others turn houses into homes. Being a military wife myself, I have a deep understanding of the unique challenges Veterans and their families face, which is why I work closely with first-time homebuyers and Veterans—though I’m always happy to help anyone who needs a trusted friend in real estate, no matter their situation. Even in my short baking career I carry the same concepts over from my real estate career. You know the saying “it was made with love”? It’s true! I make whatever I set out to do with care, compassion, love, and pure determination.

People often say I’m most known for my smile, my long hair, my genuine desire to help others, and how I care for others. I tend to put others before myself and strive to make any situation as painless and stress-free as possible. I always tell my friends and clients that my line is open anytime. Personally, I’m most proud of how my efforts are being recognized both online and offline. Whether it’s with clients or complete strangers, I make it a priority to show care and compassion—and I believe that’s what truly sets me apart from other agents and people in my industries.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
One thing I always hope to share is that your journey doesn’t have to look like everyone else’s to be meaningful. Life comes in seasons—some full of uncertainty, others full of growth—and every moment has a purpose. Whether you’re starting over, chasing a dream, or simply figuring things out, give yourself grace. Trust God’s timing, lean into your support system, and never be afraid to reinvent yourself. Always have the courage to love, love on each and every single person you come across.

I’m passionate about what I do, and whether it’s through baking, creating content, or helping someone find their home, I want people to feel seen, supported, and valued. If my story encourages even one person to keep going or try something new, then I’ve done my job.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://linktr.ee/ciarachapmanrealtor
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ciarasellsga/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ciarachapmanrealtor
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ciarachapmanrealtor

Image Credits
Featured Photo – Heather Dupree Photography
Photos within Realtor Banner – Heather Dupree Photography
Cap & Gown Photos – Taylor Zenko Photography
Wedding Photos – Taylor Zenko Photography
USMC Photo – Courtesy of USMC Ball Photographer – Name Unknown
Black Bow Photo – Tris Marie Sutherland