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

Hi Angela, how did you come up with the idea for your business?
I was in the styling business for over 10 years, styling kids’ birthday parties as well as families for professional photo sessions. While l absolutely loved working with families on these special events, I began to notice the need for another form of styling service. I have always enjoyed presenting gifts in beautiful and unique ways. It was a holiday party I hosted that truly inspired me to pivot and take the plunge to start a new business. I hosted a “Wrapping Party” at my home, providing guests with paper, ribbons, boxes and tissue, as well as ornaments and items to adorn their packages they each brought to wrap. I spent time helping my friends style their gifts and soon, there was chatter about starting a business.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I provide clients with the ease of giving custom, curated, stylish gift packages. Each gift is customized to fit the clients’ needs and the recipients’ likes. I love having a hand in bringing joy to others through thoughtful gift giving. Gifting with Festively Styled is a way of connecting with those in the community and deepening relationships, whatever the reason or season.

Nearly every Festively Styled gift package that goes out the door is custom. Meaning, no two gifts are the same. However, there are times when a client asks for multiples and during holidays I may sell a specific number of pre-curated gifts. I thrive when coordinating and styling gift packages. Gifting is more than placing some items into a box, bag, or basket. I intentionally place items and carefully choose the style and colors to create the feel and look of each gift package.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?

My best friend and I would be staying at The Arizona Biltmore for it’s central location. From there we can easily head dowtown, North Central, to the Arcadia area or Scottsdale. We’d definitely spend some time by the pool, get a massage at the Montelucia, lunch at The Henry and pop over to the 44th & Camelback shops, like Urbana & Alixandra’s. A night out would include dinner at Francine in Scottsdale, then a night cap at the W Hotel. One day we would spend some time shopping at the Biltmore, won’t forget to visit Cornelia Park & grab some tacos & street corn at Blanco. That night we’d venture downtown to the Arrogant Butcher, & a drink after at Bitter & Twisted. We’d take a drive to Sedona one day for a long hike and lunch. That night we might walk across the street from our hotel and enjoy dinner at Flint. Depending on the time of year, we could have a cocktail back at the resort in their newly renovated outdoor bar. Another day we could hop on bikes and ride in the North Central area of town. Cruise the canal and bridal path, walk the Farmers Market end up at Uptown Plaza for lunch and some shopping. I’d have to take her to Muse and over to Francis across the street. Lunch perhaps at Flower Child or Chula. Our last day would include a hike up Piestewa Peak, pool time, dinner at Richardson’s, dancing at the Womack and maybe even some late night drinks at Swizzle Inn.

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’d love to dedicate my shoutout to my incredible friends and family who have supported & encouraged me, have been my hype girls and my sounding board. I would not be in the position I am in today without them cheering me on! I’d also like to thank Allison Carter, whom I met through Instagram last winter. I was an attendee and vendor at the UPP (Ultimate Product Party) conference last May that she & Cat hosted. I was blown away & came away with a wealth of knowledge to help me in my new business venture!

Website: www.festivelystyled.com

Instagram: @festivelystyled

Facebook: Festviely Styled

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