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

Hi Gaye, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
When I first began working on my own, I was a young mother to two toddlers — twins! Balance never entered my mind; I crammed in projects when my babies took naps or were in preschool. As they grew older, I began to have a different perspective. While I prioritized my family’s well-being, I began to see the value in prioritizing work as well. I set aside time for both and dedicated myself during set hours to the task at hand. Did I succeed 100% of the time? No, I did not. It was a learning process. Today, the pendulum swings in the opposite direction. My children are grown so I have more time to work — but that leaves less time for play.

My dad used to tell me, “Put your faith first, your family second, and everything else a distant third.” I love that! When I put faith and family first, my work comes into clearer perspective and I’m better able to justify turning off my computer and eating dinner with my family, Burnout can come quickly and prevention is better — and easier — than cure.

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.
It is so nice to think of my work as art! When I think about art, I think about painting, sculpture, drama, and singing. None of which I can do well!

What sets me apart may be what I am most proud of: I’ve been told before that when I interview someone, they feel like they are talking with a friend. I love learning someone’s story and bringing it to life, showcasing a positive aspect of a community, or bringing recognition to a worthy cause. I think my writing shows how much I care. I am proud of that and I do think it may set me apart.

I started on this journey a long time ago. I’ve learned over the years the value of dedication, commitment, being on time, meeting your deadlines, teamwork, grace towards others, grace towards myself, and taking pride in my work. I’ve learned that is ok to ask for help. I’ve learned that it is ok to say no — better to turn down a project than to do a poor job because you don’t have adequate time. I’ve learned to ask for what I need: a different deadline, more information, a phone call. I’ve learned to give what I can: my time, my attention, my praise, my best effort.

My brand is hopeful and joyful and kind. No one will ever hire me for a hard-hitting expose — and I’m ok with that!

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.
Wow, I love this question! Memphis has so many great places! To eat, we would definitely hit up Seikisui Pacific Rim for the best sushi in town. I would call ahead to make sure we could sit at the sushi bar to watch the magic happen. We would also visit the bar at Char for a fun cocktail and a delicious meal. One evening, we would go to Knifebird to try out flights of wine. You won’t be surprised to hear that, once again, sitting at the bar is a must. The food is great, too, so we would stay there for dinner. I would take my best friend for the best Italian food at Tamboli’s. For lunch, Elwood’s Shack, The Liquor Store, Global Cafe, and Fratelli’s at Memphis Botanic Garden. While we are there, of course we will have to tour the Garden.

No trip to Memphis is complete without visiting The Peabody! Nothing beats sitting in the Lobby, sipping a cocktail, and watching the ducks. Shows at The Orpheum, the Playhouse, and Hattiloo Theatre are also a must. We would visit Overton Square and Overton Park, walk alongside the Mighty Mississippi, check out Tom Lee Park, and visit the National Civil Rights Museum.

We can also hang out at one of Memphis’ awesome coffee shops — Belltower, Otherlands, and French Truck are my favorites. Crosstown Concourse is also a fun place to visit and people watch; plus the history is amazing.

After being on the go so much, we might like one night at home. We would stock up on fresh veg at the Cooper-Young Farmers Market, excellent meat at Buster’s Butcher, and delicious wine from Rootstock.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
First of all, my wonderful family! My parents, Charles and Georgene Garrett; my incredible husband, Dan Swan; our beautiful and amazing children, Garrett and Emily, and my goofy brothers, Brad and Tim. I’d also like to shout out to the amazing team at Campfire Collective — a team of the most talented, supportive, kind, and caring creative professionals you will ever meet. I have a group of forever friends that have had my back since we were girls — thank you, Amy, Jamie, Tavia, Louann, and Debba for your constant love and support — and a Bible Study group that has laughed, cried, and prayed together through good times and bad. I am blessed in my friendships!

Website: https://www.gayeswan.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gayeswan/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gaye-swan-07732768/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gaye.g.swan

Image Credits
Emily Swan Photography — all of them including the first shot I uploaded separately, except: NLA Photography — picnic table, Ziggy Mack — headshot with brown background, Best of Memphis — needs no credit

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