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Have you supported Beards Because?

Follicly fighting domestic violence since 2007. Beards Because next event is Walk a Mile in Her Shoes. Benefitting Safe Alliance in conjunction with Hearts Beat as One Foundation. Men and women walk a full mile in high heels and boy do they have fun. Help us fundraise by signing up or attending the event. One of our favorite events of the year! Learn more here.


Hi! Have you supported Wendy Shanahan and Beards Because?

I love the phrase “my own special brand of crazy.” Wendy said this during our conversation and it stuck with me. We’re all crazy about something. I’m talking next level crazy. In my eyes it’s what makes up who we are and ultimately what we decide to spend our life doing.

Need to get inspired? Have coffee with Wendy. She’s awesome.

Also ask her about Asterisk Creative and all the neat stuff they have going on there. Local businesses that understand that supporting community and making Charlotte a better place are essential get me pumped.

I asked Wendy six questions. Her answers are below her picture.

What are you most passionate about?

I’m passionate about being involved and growing. From what I do with Asterisk to also what I’m doing with Beards is that it’s a constant evolution and growth. Even when we make mistakes we learn and get better. Also, being part of something that’s bigger than just me is what I love and am passionate about.

What is something you struggle with personally?

When I’m doing something I take ownership of it and want to ensure from every aspect that it’s being done right. Sometimes it’s difficult to step back and let other people take control. It’s tough for me but I understand that for things to grow and evolve whether it’s Beards or my business it’s what I have to do.

What frustrates you?

What frustrates me is when people aren’t committed. They show up but maybe they aren’t engaged. They only do it because they think it looks good for them. Do it well. Do it with passion. Do it with integrity.

The other thing that frustrates me is people that can’t admit they are wrong or make a mistake. I’m the first one to say that I screwed up or I’m sorry about that. Own it. Then let’s try and find a way to move forward.

If you could go back in time 15 years and give yourself one piece of advice what would that be?

Don’t be afraid to take a chance and don’t be afraid if it doesn’t work. They’ll be something that comes out of it that’s amazing. If you don’t try you’ll never know. Change is terrifying but it also can be the best thing to happen to someone.

What do you think is missing from Charlotte?

Wow. I’ve never really thought about that because there’s so many great things that have really grown over the last few years between the culinary scene and the creative community. One thing I wish Charlotte had was people recognizing the more we work together the better we are. We aren’t competing. Your peer and so called competition can be your greatest ally.

Dr. Jenny of Pearl Charlotte wants to know what makes you smile?

This going to sound so silly. My dog. It’s the unconditional love that makes me smile more than anything. Knowing somebody loves me no matter what. I’d say the same about my fiance.  He loves me with my flaws, with the best of me and the worst of me. They love my own special brand of crazy.

You can find more about Beards Because on their website here. Wendy is on Twitter @WendyShanahan or can be found creating awesome things at Asterisk.

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