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     Stacey M. Cole is best described as an unwavering business consultant driven by a profound dedication to empowering local businesses. With an abundance of experience and expertise under her belt, Stacey’s primary focus lies in offering indispensable guidance and unwavering support to small enterprises, equipping them with the necessary tools and strategic frameworks to navigate the intricacies of today’s fiercely competitive landscape.

     Currently residing in Cincinnati, OH, Stacey is a proud native of the South Side of Chicago. With humble beginnings, she was raised in a working-class community that shaped her resilience and determination. Though her roots were modest, she never let that stop her from dreaming big and pushing forward with purpose.

Stacey graduated from Jones Commercial High School in Chicago, a historically prestigious finishing school that had transitioned into a magnet school. Students were still required to wear traditional business attire—skirts, heels, hats, and gloves—which helped instill a professional mindset early on. She majored in accounting and gained her first exposure to working with professionals through internships, including at the Leadership Council on housing discrimination and Kentucky Fried Chicken.

     After high school, Stacey’s life took a new direction as she embraced motherhood and the responsibility that came with it. Determined to create a better life, she enrolled at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, IL, earning a Bachelor of Science in Communication. She later returned to Chicago, where she supported her mother and earned her Master’s Degree in Business Administration. This advanced education further solidified her knowledge in business operations, leadership, and people development, allowing her to bring even more depth and structure to the consulting services she offers today.

     In 2018, Stacey launched her own brand, Alchemy Business Consulting. “My focus was to help small and medium-sized businesses scale and grow,” she says. “At Alchemy Business Consulting, we believe in the value of people and are dedicated to your success. Together, we will work to equip you with the knowledge, resources, and know-how necessary to grow the organizations you want.” In addition to scaling support, Alchemy Business Consulting offers operational development, legacy building, life and health insurance, retirement rollovers, and business continuity planning.

     Paula Hairston, of Richmond, VA, is the owner of  Social Flare Event Studio.  Her company offers affordable event space rentals as well as beautiful, flexible venue for private parties, classes, pop-up shops, and creative events.  While Paula and her team’s foundation may be venue rental, they also offer add-on services such as tables, chairs, and basic setups to help our clients bring their vision to life.   Paula says, “I’m passionate about helping people make memories, whether through a beautifully hosted event, a fun class, or a pop-up business opportunity.  I believe in leading with heart, offering quality experiences, and making event planning easier and more accessible for everyone.

     Social Flare Event Studio officially opened for business in 2023, Paula shares, after recognizing a need for affordable, stylish event spaces in Midlothian, VA.  After months of planning, securing a location, and curating a welcoming atmosphere, she made a leap of faith and has been going ever since. 

     The vision to start her company came from Paula’s passion for bringing people together and creating memorable experiences.  She also credits her love of art and desire to help others celebrate life’s special moments as contributing factors.  Paula says, “I wanted a space where creativity, community, and celebration could meet — whether through painting, entrepreneurship, or personal milestones.  I wanted to build a space where creativity, community, and celebration could thrive without breaking the bank. It’s inspired by my love for hosting, entrepreneurship, and empowering others to showcase their talents.”