Today we’d like to introduce you to Shameka Luster.
Hi Shameka, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Upon commemorating my 35th journey around the sun, my devoted spouse Kentric sought to honor me with a celebratory event by throwing me a 35th birthday dinner. Unfortunately, it was during the pandemic, so he was told that he could only host up to six guests at a restaurant. He did not want it to be a huge gathering; however, he did want enough people to be there that I love and love me, so with only a couple weeks to go, we decided to turn our home into a small soiree. When guests began to arrive, they assumed we hired a professional to come and design our space for the dinner party. However, my husband casually said, “No, that was all Shameka’s doing.” The guest did not believe I had done this because I had never done it before, and we reassured them I did everything. So, as I sat there, I contemplated the array of individuals around me and the ambiance of my creation; at that moment, a nascent yearning blossomed, a willingness to explore the artistic path that had materialized so unexpectedly. So a modest yet genuine intention emerged from that memorable gathering, a commitment to birth Dose of Elegance into the world. With the crucible of a pandemic, a new beginning was revealed, and it was with a mixture of fear and eagerness, that I embarked upon this unforeseen journey, my pandemic-born creation nurtured in the cradle of adversity. I strategically refined my business approach, determined to uphold excellence. I recognized the need for a distinct clientele and embraced a deliberate aesthetic for my brand. Connecting with an admired designer, Britney Hoskins, stood out. Acknowledging my potential, she invited me to Detroit. I designed a Nigerian wedding, coordinated another, and collaborated on ideas there. Britney’s guidance prompted critical thinking, fostering independence. Through self-discovery, I grasped her intent. Attending workshops and conferences further honed my skills, shaping my current design prowess. My clientele evolved as envisioned. This journey molded my career early on, enriching me with invaluable lessons.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been far from smooth, challenged by economic fluctuations and the challenge of proving myself to my desired clientele. I’ve understood that skills aren’t enough; understanding business is crucial. Being adept at something doesn’t suffice; aligning your business effectively is vital for progress. I grappled with this aspect and sought counsel from those who walked a similar path. My husband and I are crafting new business strategies for Dose of Elegance to flourish as a household name. I’ve realized growth lies in collaboration; I can’t ascend to my career pinnacle alone. The path entails embracing a collective approach, recognizing that my aspirations can only fully bloom when shared.
Thanks – What else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My path is that of a Luxury Event Designer, with a focus on my floral craftsmanship; that is what I aspire my specialty to be. Flowers grace every event I handcraft if I have total control, and my centerpieces are intricate table designs. In a remarkable year, Dose of Elegance, I was transformed from an aspiration to a legalized entity on August 5th, 2022, reflecting my exponential growth. My success finds roots in intentionality, meticulous alignment, and selective marketing, shaping the clients I attract. What distinguishes me is an inversion to complacency. Every event is a challenge, an opportunity to overcome fear and strive for excellence. But, in the same breath, growth in this short span feels surreal; my mind sometimes lags behind the strides Dose of Elegance is taking. I just did a wedding that I planned and designed with over 700 guests in attendance. It was truly mind-blowing.
We all have different ways of looking at and defining success. How do you define success?
The harmonious fusion of artistry, innovation, and seamless execution defines my success in this industry. It’s about creating transformative experiences that transcend expectations, impacting guests indelibly. Success for Dose of Elegance is measured not only by the aesthetic beauty of the event but also by the ability to craft narratives, evoke emotions, and capture the essence of the occasion. It encompasses impeccable attention to detail, personalization, and a commitment to exceeding client desires. Moreover, my success entails building a brand synonymous with exclusivity, professionalism, and trust. It’s about cultivating relationships, attracting a discerning clientele, and leaving an enduring legacy of exceptional events. Financial achievements are a component, but my true success transcends financial gains. It’s a manifestation of the visionary journey, where the art of celebration and the mastery of logistics converge to create moments that linger in memories long after the event. I do not define success by the amount of money I make from an event but by the look of absolute amazement from my clients and the referrals formed from that celebration. Many of my clients treat me like family. They fully trust not only my vision but me as the expert, which gives me a feeling of amazement and self-worth. With every creation comes a new challenge, and with every new challenge, I watch myself growing beyond anything I could’ve ever imagined.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.doseofelegance.com
- Instagram: dose_of_elegancellc
- Facebook: Dose of Elegance
- Linkedin: Dose of Elegance
