Conversations with Shontel Stanford

Today we’d like to introduce you to Shontel Stanford

Hi Shontel, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
My name is Shontel Stanford, and my journey as a single mother of three has been a profound testament to resilience and growth. After enduring domestic violence and navigating the painful process of divorce, I found myself at a crossroads—unsure of who I was and how to move forward. The weight of my circumstances felt heavy, and I often questioned if I could truly build a life of peace and purpose for my children and myself.

Through this tumultuous time, I began writing my book, “Growing Pains,” where I candidly share the struggles I faced. Each page reflects not only the heartache but also the invaluable lessons learned along the way. Writing became my refuge, allowing me to reclaim my voice and transform my pain into something beautiful that could serve as a beacon for others navigating similar paths.

Learning to trust God became my lifeline. In those quiet moments of prayer and reflection, I discovered a deep well of strength within me. I realized that my past did not define my future; I had the power to change my narrative. With faith as my foundation, I started to envision a life where I could thrive—not just survive.

Embracing this new reality led me to launch my own business, where I provide graphic design, keepsake video editing, and social media services. This venture not only supports my family but also allows me to express my creativity and passion for storytelling. With each project, I feel a renewed sense of purpose, knowing I am building a legacy for my children.

In addition to my business, I have authored 11 books available on Amazon, including the children’s series “The Adventures of Essie.” Inspired by my daughter, these stories encourage young girls to embrace their uniqueness and never let anyone dim their light. Through Essie’s adventures, I aim to instill confidence and resilience in the next generation, reminding them that they are capable of achieving greatness.

Looking back on my journey, I am filled with gratitude for the challenges that have shaped me. Each obstacle has been an opportunity for growth, and each victory, no matter how small, is a testament to my unwavering spirit.

Today, I stand proud as a mother, an entrepreneur, and an author. I have transformed my pain into purpose, and I am committed to empowering others to do the same. My story serves as a reminder that even in the darkest times, there is hope, healing, and the possibility of a brighter tomorrow. Together, let’s continue to uplift one another and build a legacy that celebrates our strength and resilience.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
It has definitely not been a smooth road. My journey has been filled with significant challenges, particularly during the transition from my past experiences with domestic violence to becoming a single mother. Navigating the emotional aftermath of that situation was incredibly difficult, as I struggled with self-doubt and insecurity about my ability to provide a safe and loving environment for my children.

Additionally, starting my own business brought its own set of obstacles. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship while raising three kids was a test of my resilience and time management skills. There were moments of financial uncertainty and self-doubt that made me question whether I was on the right path.

However, each struggle has been an opportunity for growth and learning. I’ve come to realize that these challenges have shaped me into the person I am today. They’ve taught me the importance of perseverance, faith, and community support, which have been crucial in helping me rise above adversity. Each step of this journey has reinforced my commitment to empower others facing similar challenges, showing them that they too can overcome and thrive.

Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
As an author, I specialize in creating a diverse range of empowering literature, particularly focused on uplifting and inspiring both children and adults. My works include heartfelt children’s books, daily devotionals, and affirmation coloring books, all designed to promote self-acceptance, resilience, and cultural celebration.

I’m known for my book “Growing Pains: Paying the Cost to Bear the Cross,” where I share my personal journey of overcoming adversity as a single mother. This book resonates with readers who are seeking hope and strength in their own struggles. Additionally, “Manna: Bread of Life” serves as a devotional and journal, guiding readers in their spiritual journeys.

One of my proudest achievements is the “Adventures of Essie” series, which includes titles like “Essie & The Black Swan” and “Essie & The Easter Surprise.” Through these stories, I aim to inspire young girls, particularly those of color, to embrace their uniqueness and follow their dreams.

What sets me apart from other authors is my commitment to representation and empowerment. I write with the intention of creating relatable characters and meaningful messages that reflect the experiences and values of our community. My coloring books, such as “Bloom: Affirmation Coloring Book Celebrating Women of Every Hue” and “Shades of Grace: Affirmation Coloring Book for Black Ballerinas,” celebrate the beauty and strength of women and girls of color.

My books are available on Amazon, and I hope they continue to inspire and empower readers of all ages to build a legacy of confidence and self-love.

Have you learned any interesting or important lessons due to the Covid-19 Crisis?
The COVID-19 crisis taught me many important lessons, especially about the value of connection and honoring those we love. During this time, I lost my grandmother, who always emphasized the importance of giving people their flowers while they can still smell them. Her wisdom resonated deeply with me, and it became a guiding principle as I navigated my grief.

Creating a keepsake video for her was part of my healing process, and it not only helped me cherish her memory but also inspired a new venture. The video I made became popular among those who knew her, leading others to approach me for similar projects. This sparked the growth of my keepsake video business, which now includes creating videos and magazines for all occasions.

The experience reinforced the idea that our stories and memories are precious, and it motivated me to help others celebrate their loved ones. The lessons I learned during this challenging time have shaped my work as an author and entrepreneur, reminding me of the importance of legacy and the connections we foster through storytelling.

Pricing:

• MEMORIAL TRIBUTES Prices start from $300
• IT’S A BIRTHDAY KEEPSAKE Prices start from $200
• GRAD MOMENTS KEEPSAKE Prices start from $200
• PODCAST VIDEO EDITING PER EPISODE (UP TO 30 MINS) Prices start from $150
• SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGEMENT Prices start from $500/monthly

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/inspiringbeautykeepsakes
• Youtube: https://youtube.com/@inspiringbeautyinbelievers
• Other: https://linktr.ee/Inspiringbeautyinbelievers