In honor of National Entrepreneurship Month, I celebrate the inspiring journey of Shanna Simpson, an entrepreneur who turned her love for fashion and jewelry into a thriving business. From crafting handmade wooden earrings to expanding into thrifted clothing and hosting unique earring paint parties, Shanna’s journey is a testament to perseverance, creativity, and faith. Her story highlights the power of following your passion, staying resilient, and trusting God’s guidance.
Below, Shanna shares insights into her entrepreneurial journey, offering practical wisdom and spiritual encouragement.
The Spark of Entrepreneurship
Dr. TAS: What sparked your transition into entrepreneurship and your current business focus?
Shanna Simpson: My journey began without a grand plan. I always loved fashion and jewelry but didn’t know how to turn that into something concrete. Everything changed after attending a pop-up shop where a vendor sold handmade wooden jewelry. I was inspired. I went home, researched, and ordered my first batch of wooden earrings. They sold out within two weeks. That was the turning point.
This experience reminds us of Proverbs 16:3 ESV: “Commit your work to the Lord, and your plans will be established.” When we dedicate our efforts to God, He provides direction and success. Shanna’s leap of faith reflects this truth and encourages us to act on the opportunities God places before us.
The Power of Resilience
Dr. TAS: What lessons from your mother have shaped your business approach?
Shanna Simpson: My mom taught me resilience. She’s a fighter who always found a way to overcome challenges. Her example taught me that hard work and determination can push you through any obstacle.
James 1:12 NIV emphasizes this: “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” Shanna’s resilience shows that perseverance, coupled with faith, leads to growth and reward.
Standing Out in a Competitive Market
Dr. TAS: How have you differentiated yourself in a competitive market?
Shanna Simpson: Early on, I allowed customers to choose custom colors for their jewelry, making each piece unique to them. As my business grew, I added thrifted clothing and accessories to reflect my personal style. These choices helped my brand stand out.
This aligns with 1 Peter 4:10 NIV: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” Shanna’s commitment to serving her customers uniquely reflects good stewardship and sets her apart in the market.
Overcoming Pandemic Challenges
Dr. TAS: How did you sustain and grow your business during the pandemic?
Shanna Simpson: The pandemic could’ve been the end of my business, but instead, it became a turning point. I used the time to enhance my website, create content, and grow my social media presence. Online sales increased, and I realized there was a strong demand for my products even in uncertain times.
Romans 5:3-4 ESV reminds us: “Not only that, but we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope.” Shanna’s experience demonstrates how challenges can build character and lead to unexpected growth.
Thrifting with Purpose
Dr. TAS: How do you source your thrifted clothing, and what makes this part of your business special?
Shanna Simpson: I source from other thrifters who travel to states like Texas and New York, as well as local stores like Goodwill. Thrifting is more than shopping; it’s about uncovering hidden treasures and sharing them with my customers.
Isaiah 61:3 NIV speaks of turning ashes into beauty: “Provide for those who grieve…to bestow on them a crown of beauty instead of ashes.” Shanna’s ability to find value in overlooked items mirrors this principle of redemption and creativity.
Expanding into Fashion
Dr. TAS: What inspired you to expand your business into clothing?
Shanna Simpson: My love for fashion and my background in retail and textiles made adding clothing a natural progression. I started with jewelry but wanted to include thrifted clothing because I saw potential in items others overlooked.
Matthew 25:29 ESV teaches: “For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have an abundance.” Shanna’s expansion shows how faithfulness in smaller ventures can lead to greater opportunities.
Balancing Business and Personal Life
Dr. TAS: How do you balance your full-time job and your growing business?
Shanna Simpson: My full-time job provides flexibility, especially outside of tax season when I work fewer hours. My business feels more like a fun hobby than work, and I make time for events, traveling, and relaxing. Balance is essential.
Genesis 2:2 NIV reminds us of the importance of rest: “By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.” Shanna’s approach highlights the value of balancing effort with rejuvenation.
Evolving with the Market
Dr. TAS: What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Shanna Simpson: Be willing to adapt and grow. Doing the same thing forever won’t keep your customers engaged. I started with wooden jewelry and eventually added clothing and earring paint parties to diversify. Don’t fear change—embrace it.
Proverbs 3:5-6 NIV teaches us: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.” Shanna’s willingness to innovate reflects faith in God’s plan and the courage to evolve.
Creating an Impact as a Vendor
Dr. TAS: How do you make your vending table stand out?
Shanna Simpson: Presentation is key. I use a black and white striped tablecloth and gold fixtures to create a cohesive and eye-catching display. My earrings speak for themselves, but my setup draws people in.
Matthew 5:14-16 NIV inspires us: “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.” Shanna’s bold presentation reflects the principle of shining brightly and sharing your unique gifts with others.
Staying True to Yourself
Dr. TAS: If you could share advice with your younger self, what would it be?
Shanna Simpson: I’d tell her not to take life too seriously. It’s okay not to have everything figured out right away. Focus on what makes you happy and take the time to explore your passions.
Shanna’s wisdom reminds us to embrace life’s journey and trust God’s timing, knowing that He works all things together for good for those who love Him (Romans 8:28).
Dr. TAS’ Takeaway
Shanna Simpson’s story offers a beautiful blend of faith, perseverance, and creativity. Her journey teaches us that success isn’t about sticking to a rigid plan but trusting God, embracing opportunities, and staying true to your vision. Whether starting a business or pursuing personal growth, Shanna’s example inspires us to move forward with faith and determination.
As we reflect on her experiences, let’s remember to commit our work to God, persevere through challenges, and steward our gifts in service to others. These principles can guide us to meaningful success and fulfillment in every area of life.
Shanna Simpson, an accountant at Lea Enterprises, specializes in small business bookkeeping and tax returns. A graduate of UNC-Greensboro, she founded Naturally Unique By SOS in 2016, blending her passion for bold accessories, thrifted fashion, and supporting small businesses. Follow her journey:
Website: Naturallyuniquebysos.bigcartel.com
IG: @naturally_unique_by_sos
FB: Naturally Unique By SOS
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