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

Hi Kerry, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
My best friend, Taylor Anne, and I worked in tattoo shops together for years. We wanted to open a space where artists could feel inspired to create their best work. Equinox Art Collective is a space where we have been able to cultivate a thriving art community and support artists of all kinds. We recently have been fortunate enough to expand our space into an additional metaphysical retail shop, Equinox Provisions. I work on that side of the business as the resident spiritual life coach and herbalist. We have included classes, pop-ups and markets where local artists and practitioners get to show case their talents and creativity.

What should our readers know about your business?
Equinox is a space where we want people to feel comfortable enough to be their authentic selves. It’s a metaphysical space for the open minded. This year I have been excited to teach classes of my own. I just held a Self Love Workshop with some great people. Teaching others to empower themselves has been profoundly fulfilling. I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to accomplish in the time we’ve been open. Additionally, we have just launched our online store. I never imagined being able to expand into branded products and merchandise. We have faced a number of challenges, but it’s important to know how to pivot. It’s all about making your ideas work with whatever cards you’ve been dealt. You can’t let a roadblock be the end of your journey.

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.
I find the greatest peace in nature so I’m grateful to have state parks such as Sweetwater Creek and Red Top close by. Atlanta has an amazing botanical garden that blends nature and art in a captivating way. Next to the Altanta Botanical Garden is Piedmont Park where you can sit on the grass and enjoy some quiet moments in the middle of the bustling city. The High Museum of Art is another great spot for visual arts of all kinds. Finally, on the way out of the city you have to stop at Bantam + Biddy for the best gluten free chicken tenders around.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The whole Equinox team gets credit for where I am today! I wouldn’t be able to do it without them. I am truly grateful to be surrounded by such talented artists. As of late, I have also been finding inspiration from artists outside of the tattoo field. Josh Black and Elliott Holland , of Flash Bang Photography, have been doing pop-ups where they create amazing tintype photos. Rachel Hill, of Red Barn Pottery Farm, makes beautiful mugs inspired by classical paintings as well as ones featuring custom pet portraits.

Website: www.equinoxprovisions.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/cooperheartcoaching

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutArizona 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.