Today we’d like to introduce you to Monica Due.
Hi Monica, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
My journey as CEO and Founder of a three-divisional enterprise—an art training institute, art studio, and art gallery—has truly been years in the making, even if I didn’t realize it at the time. For decades, I cultivated a career in Human Resources, driven by a passion for excellence and a commitment to empowering individuals and organizations to reach their highest potential. Through both education and experience, I became a catalyst for transformation—always a thought leader, visionary, trendsetter, and trailblazer for creativity and innovation.
I’ve been blessed with a unique gift: the ability to see beauty and possibility in the smallest, most overlooked details and bring them to life in extraordinary ways. Whether it was turning green spaces into vibrant landscapes, designing impactful church retreats and events, developing transformative training programs for organizations, or crafting ideas into stunning works of art—this has always been my sweet spot.
Then came a turning point. After losing my job due to a layoff and downsizing, I felt a divine nudge to step into a deeper purpose. God called me to minister and lead in a new way—through art, to create a non-traditional art brand unlike no other. This second chapter of my professional life is not just about business; it’s about creating, crafting, collaborating, and celebrating with others. It’s about using art as a vehicle to inspire, heal, and connect.
And so, this new venture is not just a career move—it’s a calling. A culmination of everything I’ve ever been and everything I’m becoming.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The journey has been neither smooth nor overly rough—more like a winding road with its fair share of bumps and breakthroughs. The greatest challenge has been turning a vision into reality. We started the business from scratch, bootstrapped with limited capital, pouring every ounce of time, energy, and financial resources into a dream we believed in.
With little room for hiring employees, contractors, consultants, or investing in a robust advertising budget, we’ve had to be resourceful. My husband has been my partner in this endeavor, and I’ve worn nearly every hat imaginable—bookkeeper, marketer, brand ambassador, social media strategist, master facilitator, receptionist, event planner, website designer, and more. It’s a one-woman powerhouse behind the scenes of a small business with a big heart.
We’re not backed by a franchise or a corporate machine. We’re just two people chasing a dream, fueled by grit and passion. And yes, there have been days when I’ve felt drained, discouraged, and unsure of the path forward. But in those moments, I remind myself that if it were easy, everyone would be doing it.
Our Wall of Fame stands as a powerful photographic reminder of the incredible people who’ve supported us from Day One! Their belief in our mission keeps me going—and reminds me that this journey, with all its ups and downs, is absolutely worth it.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
Professionally, I bring a robust and well-rounded background as a Senior Transformation People Leader, Impact Business Coach, Organizational Strategist, and Master Facilitator. My Human Resources generalist career has allowed me to engage with every dimension of the HR field—from Employee and Labor Relations to Organizational Development, Training, Compensation, Benefits, Talent Acquisition, Workforce Planning, and beyond.
My academic journey reflects a deep commitment to lifelong learning, including one year of Doctoral Studies, an MBA, a BSBA, an AA, and two prestigious senior-level HR certifications: SHRM-SCP and SPHR.
What I am known for and what truly sets me apart is my unwavering passion for empowering individuals and organizations. I specialize in delivering customized, strategic, and personalized tools and resources that unlock growth, challenge conventional thinking, and drive meaningful transformation.
What I’m most proud of is how I’ve transformed and transferred this wealth of experience, knowledge, and skill into an arts-based model for my business enterprise—one that ignites creativity and innovation in fresh, exciting ways. This approach inspires individuals and organizations to think differently, engage more deeply, and unlock new possibilities for growth and expression.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
Above all, I give credit to God for every success and accomplishment along this journey. Without His guidance and grace, I might have given up—or never started at all. He has been my source of strength, clarity, and perseverance.
Next, I’m deeply grateful for my family, who have been my unwavering foundation. My husband—my business partner, supply manager, errand runner, and sounding board for being on this journey with me. My daughters, sisters, and brother who have offered endless encouragement, support, patience, and love. I also thank my parents, extended family, and close friends who have cheered us on every step of the way.
Our business has grown organically, thanks to the incredible community that believed in us. From our church family to loyal customers who chose to invest in our dream and spread the word, each person has played a meaningful role in helping us build something special. Their faith in us continues to fuel our purpose.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.notjustpaintllc.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/notjustpaintstl/?next=%2F
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100091792751407
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/not-just-paint-stl/posts/?feedView=all&viewAsMember=true
- Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/not-just-paint-saint-peters?osq=Not+Just+Paint&override_cta=Request+pricing+%26+availability
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@notjustpaintstl
