The Faces of the Golden Strip is excited to introduce you Kendra Nelson, Owner of Kendra Shantai, A Place of Fashion. She wears many hats and has many passions!
Q: Tell us about yourself, including a little bit about where you grew up, your education, your family, interests, passions, and career?
I’m originally from a small town called Warrenton, GA, where I had the opportunity to experience close-knit community living. After graduating from Warren County High School, I pursued my passion for service by joining the United States Navy, where I served as a Human Resource Specialist for 4 1/2 years. During my time in the Navy, I honed my organizational and leadership skills, learning the importance of effective communication and teamwork. Upon completing my service, I transitioned into a full-time Navy Spouse and homeschool mom. This role allowed me to not only teach my children educationally but to also raise them in the way I desire them to go. During this time I also became a certified Life Coach. This role allowed me to combine my passion for helping others with my love for personal care and development. Outside of work and ministry, I’m blessed to share my life with my wonderful husband Eric and our beautiful blended family of 7 children. Family is incredibly important to me, and I cherish the time we spend together. From a young age, I’ve had a passion for fashion, particularly in designing and styling. I find joy in expressing creativity through clothing and accessories. In my free time, I enjoy coaching basketball and homeschooling our children. These activities allow me to connect with our kids on a deeper level and help them develop important skills both on and off the court. I also love to indulge in my hobbies, whether it’s shopping for the latest trends, traveling to new destinations, or embarking on exciting adventures. These experiences fuel my sense of curiosity and zest for life, and I’m always eager to explore new opportunities and cultures.
Q: How long have you lived or worked in The Golden Strip?
1 Year and 2 Months.
Q: (Even for friends or family), what is something interesting that most people don’t know about you?
One of my biggest dreams is to experience the exhilaration of skydiving, feeling the rush of wind as I freefall through the sky. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of pushing my limits and experiencing the ultimate sense of freedom that comes with jumping out of a plane. In addition to skydiving, I’ve also set my sights on bungee jumping. The idea of taking a leap of faith off a towering bridge or platform, with nothing but a bungee cord to catch me, is both terrifying and incredibly exciting. It’s a challenge I’m eager to take on someday. Another adventure on my bucket list is riding in a hot air balloon. There’s something beautiful about drifting silently through the sky, taking in breathtaking views from above. It’s a more serene and peaceful way to experience the thrill of flight, and I can imagine it being a truly unforgettable experience. These adrenaline-pumping activities may seem out of character for someone in my roles as a pastor and life coach, but they represent another dimension of who I am—a person who craves excitement and isn’t afraid to step out of their comfort zone to pursue it.
Q: Who is the most interesting person you’ve met here in The Golden Strip?
Celeste Purdie.
Q: What current / former local business makes you the most nostalgic about The Golden Strip?
While I’ve only been in the Golden Strip area for about a year, I’ve found that riding through the downtowns here evokes a sense of nostalgia for me. Having grown up in a small town like Warren County, GA, there’s something familiar and comforting about the charm and character of these downtown areas. While I may not have a specific local business in the Golden Strip that makes me nostalgic just yet, the overall ambiance of the downtowns resonates with the sense of community and familiarity that I experienced back home. The quaint storefronts, the bustling activity, and the friendly faces all remind me of the close-knit community I left behind. In a way, exploring the Golden Strip feels like rediscovering the small-town charm that I cherish from my upbringing. It’s a reminder that no matter where we go, there’s something special about the sense of belonging and connection that comes from living in a tight-knit community
Q: What is your favorite thing or something unique about The Golden Strip?
One of my favorite aspects of the Golden Strip is the lively festival scene and the abundance of delicious food options. There’s a palpable energy that fills the air during festivals, bringing the community together to celebrate and enjoy various cultural events. From music festivals to art fairs to food truck gatherings, there’s always something exciting happening in the Golden Strip. These festivals not only provide entertainment but also foster a sense of unity and belonging among residents and visitors alike. And let’s not forget about the food! The Golden Strip boasts a diverse culinary scene, with a wide range of restaurants, cafes, and food trucks offering mouthwatering dishes from around the world. Whether you’re craving Southern comfort food, international cuisine, or gourmet treats, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds here. Exploring the food scene in the Golden Strip is like embarking on a culinary adventure, with each bite offering a new and delightful experience. From hole-in-the-wall gems to upscale eateries, there’s no shortage of culinary delights to discover.
Q: With so much growth in our area, there are always new places popping up. Tell us about the a “new to you” place that you recently tried.
Recently, I had the pleasure of trying out a new-to-me place in the area, Bridgeway Station. Nestled amidst the growth and excitement of our community, Bridgeway Station offers a unique dining experience that’s both inviting and memorable. From the moment I stepped inside, I was struck by the warm and welcoming ambiance. The rustic yet modern decor, coupled with the bustling atmosphere, created the perfect setting for a memorable evening. As I perused the menu, I was delighted to find a diverse selection of dishes that showcased both local flavors and global influences. From hearty comfort foods to creative culinary creations, there was something to suit every palate. What truly set Bridgeway Station apart, however, was the exceptional service. From the friendly greeting at the door to the attentive waitstaff, every aspect of the dining experience was top-notch. Overall, my visit to Bridgeway Station was a delightful culinary journey that left a lasting impression. It’s exciting to see new places like this emerge in our area, adding to the vibrancy and diversity of our local dining scene
Q: What 3 words or phrases come to mind when you think of the word HOME or NEIGHBOR?
When I think of the word “HOME,” three words or phrases that come to mind are: 1. Comfort: Home is a place of comfort, where you feel safe, relaxed, and at ease. 2. Belonging: Home is where you feel a sense of belonging, surrounded by loved ones and familiar surroundings. 3. Sanctuary: Home is a sanctuary, a refuge from the outside world, where you can be yourself and recharge. When I think of the word “NEIGHBOR,” three words or phrases that come to mind are: 1. Community: Neighbors are part of your community, sharing common spaces and often coming together to support one another. 2. Friendship: Neighbors can become friends, forming meaningful connections through shared experiences and interactions. 3. Helpfulness: Good neighbors are helpful, offering assistance, support, and a sense of camaraderie in times of need.
Q: If you had friends or family visiting you from out of town, what is the one place that you must take them to?
Downtown Greenville. I believe if anyone comes to visit in the SC Upstate, they should take a trip to the beautiful downtown of Greenville.
Q: If you had a free day with no plans, what would you do? Or where can we find you on the weekends?
If I had a free day with no plans, you might find me pursuing a few different activities, depending on my mood and interests at the time: 1. Exploring Nature: I might take advantage of the opportunity to spend time outdoors, whether it’s hiking in the mountains, a nearby park, strolling along a nature trail, or simply enjoying a leisurely picnic in a scenic spot. 2. Reading and Relaxing: As someone who enjoys diving into my Bible, or a good book, I might spend part of my free day curled up with a novel or exploring topics of interest in non-fiction. It’s a great way for me to unwind and recharge. 3. Creative Pursuits: I might use the free time to engage in some creative activities, such as writing, or experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen. Tapping into my creative side is always a fulfilling way to spend my time. 4. Quality Time with Loved Ones: Whether it’s enjoying activities with our church family, spending time with my family, or enjoying a cozy movie night with my handsome husband, I cherish moments spent connecting with the people who matter most to me. As for where you might find me on the weekends, it really depends on the season and my current interests. I could be exploring local events and festivals, trying out new restaurants or cafes, embarking on mini road trips to nearby towns, or simply enjoying downtime at home with loved ones. Flexibility and spontaneity are key ingredients to making the most of my weekends!
Q: If you were cast into a major motion picture and had your choice of anyone to be your co-star, who would you choose?
Jesus Christ.
Q: What is something on your bucket list?
Bucket List: I would love to visit Israel, Africa, Europe.
Q: What advice would you give to a crowd of people?
Friends, as we gather here today, I’m reminded of the profound message that the kingdom of God is near. It’s a message of hope, grace, and transformation that has the power to touch our lives in profound ways. Regardless of our individual beliefs or backgrounds, we can all benefit from reflecting on the concept of repentance and embracing the unconditional love offered by Jesus Christ. Repentance isn’t about shame or condemnation; it’s about acknowledging our imperfections, seeking forgiveness, and embarking on a journey of spiritual growth and renewal. In a world filled with uncertainty and turmoil, the message of Jesus offers us a beacon of light and a source of unwavering love and acceptance. It’s a reminder that we are never alone, and that there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. So, whether you’ve been on a spiritual journey for years or are just beginning to explore matters of faith, I encourage you to open your hearts to the possibility of experiencing the transformative power of God’s love. Let us embrace compassion, forgiveness, and empathy as we walk together on this journey of faith and discovery.
Q: Who would you like to see nominated for this project, The Faces of The Golden Strip?
I would like to see Eric Nelson nominated for this project.
