Today we’d like to introduce you to Lisa Sunshine.
Hi Lisa, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
Our 17-year-old son passed away suddenly on Monday, May 2, 2016. In my grief response, I cut off my hair. It was something I had thought about for some time because we had moved to Florida from the midwest and being outside a lot with relaxed hair was a lot to maintain. Nonetheless, I cut off my hair two days after he passed. Who I saw in the mirror was someone I no longer recognized or celebrated. My response to that feeling was to add big earrings, a little (very little makeup and a little lip gloss. That wasn’t enough, so as I traveled, I added eyewear. Only thing is I didn’t see myself paying $400 for the Gucci and D & G frames that I loved. In comes my creative eye and a huge dining room table of off-the-cuff designs and SHINE to match!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Nothing new is smooth. Even great-tasting smooth peanut butter started off crunchy, dry and choppy. We redesigned my dining room and an extra bedroom to accommodate my needs as a start-up. As our kids graduated high school and left for college and the USAF, we used those bedrooms to grow even more and project. The rockiest part of designing is figuring what pieces work with what finishes. In nearly all of my designs, I use elements as vintage as I am, so they are very beautiful yet fragile. They set well but may not travel well, so packaging, heat, moisture, so many things are in play even AFTER the design is complete.
Processes are tricky but absolutely necessary. We added non-custom eyewear to the business because there are customers who have that need, i.e. sassy eyewear for their own scripts. Social media is a great platform but is convoluted to use. Meeting customers where they are vs. what is the simplest process to use is the current dynamic we’re figuring out.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
My journey as a creative began 19 years ago when I opened my photography studio. From there, I expanded into my PR & Marketing Firm. That journey was one that brought much joy and great income to my life. From there, I began my career as a keynote speaker over several years. Three years ago, I became a certified executive life coach and authored my first book.
Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
Twenty-six years ago, I was homeless with my girls: a 5-year-old and newborn baby girl.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.shareyoursunshine.com
- Instagram: SunshineEyesEyewear
- Facebook: @SunshineEyewear
Image Credits
Balance Branding Eternally Faithful Productions
