Laura Shackles shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Laura, we’re thrilled to have you with us today. Before we jump into your intro and the heart of the interview, let’s start with a bit of an ice breaker: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Planning travel! I have always loved traveling and I believe that experiences and adventures are worth spending money on. Pre-kids I traveled for work and I loved seeing new cities. I would go on runs and come across little nooks and different neighborhoods, but there have been many reasons that I have withheld from traveling in the past, whether it was lack of funds, having small children and other responsibilities at home, or not making enough time off from work for personal travel. I finally feel like I am in a place where everything is aligning to make it a priority again. My kids are 7 and 9 and I LOVE traveling with them and prefer to be away from them as little as possible, but I am also planning an international trip for my upcoming 40th and I am so excited to see a new part of the world and have a little adventure with friends.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am a Colorado native who has always had a passion for entrepreneurship, design and events and a strong work ethic. My first experience with work was forming companies and clubs as a kid, doing “odd jobs”, and have always held a job in something from retail, restaurants, events or some other random position that paid the bills through college. I entered the hospitality and events space shortly after college and hustled my way through my 20’s and much of my 30’s, with a goal to love what I do but also control my own schedule and be home with my kiddos during the day.
I feel very blessed now to be going into my 12th year in business with the best of both worlds! I love providing the service to my clients that I look for when I hire professionals and that is to be responsive, efficient and to understand their vision when they don’t always know what their vision is. My clients love working with us because we make their lives easier, we get “it” done and they can trust our professional knowledge and recommendations.
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. What relationship most shaped how you see yourself?
My husband and kids have shaped me in the best way possible! I get the most joy out of providing to my kids a life full of love and stability and fulfilling anything that my childhood may have lacked, and my husband could not be a better partner. I am definitely flawed and he has always loved me unconditionally, allowed me to be who I am, build on my strengths and supported my goals, and I could not appreciate him more for that.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Not necessarily. I am a bit stubborn and like to push forward whenever possible.
The biggest obstacle that comes to mind is the chaos of Covid in the event world. I will never forget the news that all events were canceled and feeling so defeated and scared for what was to come with the loss of business and income, but I kept trudging forward and in the long run I feel it was a positive turning point in my business. It shifted the dynamic of events and in the midst of it, allowed me to work with clients on their very intimate weddings, providing enjoyment and ease during a time that was hard for them personally. It was a rewarding blessing in disguise.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
I think it is! I sure hope so but I really don’t know how I’m perceived. I would guess that most people don’t fully understand me, mostly because I am pretty low key and low drama, more of an observer, confident but a bit awkward and introverted. I am a doer and like to keep my head down and get things done without a lot of fluff and conversation. I don’t try to portray myself in any certain way, I just live how I want to live and do what I think will benefit my family the most.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
Right after a hot yoga class or after the completion of a big work project such as the end of a wedding night where everything was perfect and the clients were thrilled! Shortly after, my brain goes to the next event and the wheels start turning again!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.blushandbay.com
- Instagram: @blushandbayfloral
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauragshackles
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blushandbaydenver/
Image Credits
Photo credit in order:
Shannon Renee
Girard Photo and Film
Function and Flourish
Sarah Porter
Shelley Anderson
Girard Photo and Film
Meredith Diamond
Preston Utley
Ally Rabon
Headshot: Diana Coulter
