Meet Sunny Kelley | Entrepreneur, Entertainer, Author
We had the good fortune of connecting with Sunny Kelley and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Sunny, maybe we can start at the very start – the idea – how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I always wanted to be a business owner/ CEO. Ok…….Boss! 
Years ago, my goal was to have my own business by the age of 25. No thoughts of what “that” looked like, yet. I had learned early how to hustle and make money for myself. Doing yard work at 10 and styling hair in the kitchen at 14 years old were easy! I would inevitably evolve in my efforts.
In my early 20s, I worked at an electric company as an Account Representative, I believe. Performing my required task, but still, searching for smarter ways to get it done (even if it conflicted with the guidelines). My ambition and initiative was recognized and appreciated to a certain degree. But the culture of the company was already established. I can recall my, then, manager acknowledging my work, but reminding me, “this ain’t your company…if you want to do things your way- do it at your own business!” (paraphrasing) She put a fire under me- that I never forgot! Years after she said that and after working for that company- when I saw her, I would always jokingly remind her that her words truly encouraged me!
Fast forward, after relocating to Atlanta, I was offered a role as a newsletter writer with another former company. One of the criteria for being considered was to tell what inspired and motivated me. I remember thinking, “this is such a broad topic, where do I begin”. Any other time I would have said, my children, are my inspiration. But not now- that wasn’t enough! Eventhough they are my inspiration, I was charged to write; my biggest inspiration is/was the EXAMPLE I set for my children. This was my entire motivation! My why became stronger after going through so many trials and tribulation. I’d also accomplished a lot, but I couldn’t help but wonder- if something were to ever happen to me, what would my legacy say?!
Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
After finally taking the leap of faith to leave corporate America, I knew I needed to tap into a market that would afford me flexibility. I’m a Libra and born Creative. I needed time, money, and an outlet to explore my artistic side. As a student of life, I made several mistakes and had to overcome a lot of rejection. I had to silence the people who said- to focus on doing only one thing. The passion was overwhelming and I wanted IT badly! I wanted to work in both fields as an entrepreneur and entertainer. I needed to study and stay present with each task. Whether it be for my business or the Arts.
What was necessary as well as a major challenge, was finding my balance. I knew once I conceived work-life balance, I could begin to duplicate myself. And the only way for me to attain this was to document the process. This wasn’t easy. I’m used to just doing it! But I couldn’t call myself a true leader if I didn’t share the formula. I needed rhythm! So, I begin journaling and creating tons of templates and spreadsheets, just in case! This served me, immensely.
As I continue to grow as an entrepreneur and artist, I grasp that there is no ceiling to this lifestyle. What’s in me, didn’t start when I was born. It predates back to my ancestors who, too, were business owners. They were people who did whatever it took to raise innovators. And I’m here to run with the baton until I reach the finish line.
One thing I learned about myself is my picture of success may look completely different than someone else’s. I’m proud to be doing it MY WAY!
Key things I’d like to share about my business aside from entertaining:
• Insurance Broker
• Consultations
• Author/Publisher
• Mentors Young Artist
• Contracting Services
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Best friend visits are always nice because we definitely like good groceries! First stop would be Tom, Dick, and Hanks in Atlanta and late dining-
we’d visit Cafe’ Efendi for Mediterranean cuisine in Alpharetta.
If the weather is nice, horseback riding or canoeing on Lake Oconee is the move!
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’m fortunate to have so many amazing examples. My mother would be my first shout-out. I remember being five years old and going to class with her when she returned to school. I saw her start from scratch many times without folding. As an adult, I understand that she did experience hard times, but looking back, I didn’t miss out on anything!
My 2nd shout would be my grandmother Pinkie, who always told me and taught me, to never owe anyone! And I live by this.
My 3rd shout would be a dear friend and colleague, Nina J. Since relocating she has been my family! I have taken many notes from the pages of her life and applied them to my own.
As far as books, I’m incredibly inspired by Author Tony Morrison. Her style of writing served as my blueprint. She made me feel it was okay to express myself freely and by my own rules.
Website: www.sunnykelleyaiken.com
Instagram: sunny_kelley
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ActressSunny
Other: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09YFD2GS5
Image Credits
Cedric Mohr Photography, Getty Images
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