We had the good fortune of connecting with Monique Schulfer and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Monique, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
In the beginning, there was no balance. It was build, build, build. But then thankfully we grew to a place where I hired an employee & was able to delegate. Even then I found myself working 7 days a week. When I hit year 2 this year, I started to experience burnout. So over the last couple months I’ve been trying to be more intentional & take days off. But if I’m being honest even on those days I still find myself working on back end things that need to be done. I’m not sure if balance exists truly. I’m wondering if we just find balance as it comes. Ebbs & flows of work & life.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
The road to build Solana was one faced with many challenges. I have been an entrepreneur my entire adult life. I’ve had multiple small businesses. Solana Studios is unique though. She was birthed at a time when I finally came into my own as woman. I knew what I wanted Solana to reflect & feel like. I have built Solana through community, relationships & intentionality. I’ve learned hard lessons along the way & found so much growth in the trials. It’s only made me stronger & more determined to succeed. My love for small businesses, people & community inspired me to open Solana Studios. My dream was to create a beautiful, warm, inviting space. A place people feel drawn to come hang out, & leave adorned.

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.
We would definitely go stand up
Paddling boarding on Horsetooth in Fort Collins. Then we would grab a bite to eat at local farm to table. A favorite of mine is definitely Bread Fellow in old town FOCO. Then we would head over to Vintage Willows for the best boutique shopping in old town.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’ve been encouraged by many other small business owners in my community. All being women which is pretty incredible.

Website: https://Www.solanastateofmind.com

Instagram: Solanastudios_

Facebook: Solanastudios_

Other: https://www.google.com/gasearch?q=solana%20studios:%20permanent%20jewelry%20%26%20piercings%20loveland%20reviews&tbm=&source=sh/x/gs/m2/5#trex=m_t:lcl_akp,rc_f:nav,rc_ludocids:8906727130204024249,rc_q:Solana%2520Studios%253A%2520Permanent%2520Jewelry%2520%2526%2520Piercings,ru_q:Solana%2520Studios%253A%2520Permanent%2520Jewelry%2520%2526%2520Piercings,trex_id:n1Cdbd&lpg=cid:CgIgAQ==

Image Credits
Jordan Bachus

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutColorado is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.