Today we’d like to introduce you to Charrea ‘Shay’ Sykes and Ozell Barnes.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Charrea and Ozell. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
Growing up we had an entrepreneurial mindset that pushed us to always desire more out of life. That drive was the spark to the chemistry between us when we first met. Although we are both successful in our careers in the medical and engineering field, we both knew there was so much more in store for us. We wanted to start a business that would allow us to impact others and thankfully, we had parents that motivated us to dream big and trust that with God, we can do all things. One day, while brainstorming different ideas, we began to see just how similar our visions were and decided we could do more together than apart. After agreeing on a partnership, we decided to utilize our skills and resources and found a small location to begin building our brand. Although we were very nervous at first, we had to trust each others vision for what the space could be transformed into because we knew it would require a lot of work.
Since both of us were working at the time, Ozell chose to take some time off to do the renovations while I worked on getting the legal documents, inventory, and branding together. It was definitely a very challenging yet exciting time getting the business ready. However, by the grace of God, we were able to officially open March 17, 2018, our unique private event & party rental space. Since then, we have been able to help other families and businesses create some pretty amazing events in our space. This is certainly just the beginning for us. Being young entrepreneurs, we are constantly thinking of more innovative ideas to expand our brand and better serve our customers and we look forward to what’s to come.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It certainly has not been a smooth road. Since we are still fairly new, the hardest part is getting our name out there and showing people who we are as a brand. We are both working full time and running the business so when we get off work, our day is never complete. Not to mention, I’m also a full-time mom. However, we enjoy learning from event to event what is needed and what it takes to have a successful business. We pride ourselves on delivering a quality, professional and respected brand, so we understand it requires a lot more effort and time.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Area One59 – what should we know?
We are a unique private event and party rental space in the south suburbs specializing in making your next event one remember! Our chic multi-use space is not only affordable but can be transformed to allow your vision to become a reality in a more intimate atmosphere for you and your guest. Anything from a meeting, class/workshop, birthday party, baby shower, bridal shower, engagement party, ladies night, prom/graduation, etc. we have you covered. Not to mention, we also offer throne chair rentals for both kids and adult, balloon decor, candy tables, backdrops, and so much more to come. We get the most satisfaction when our guests tell us how great the service and experience was working with us. That makes the long nights and early mornings well worth it for us and hopefully, it’s an inspiration to others to go after their dreams as well.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
We would first have to give credit to God because without him none of this would be possible. Furthermore, our parents have been a great support during this journey. They are successful entrepreneurs themselves, so their expertise has certainly helped guide us in business. Not to mention, we also have a great group of friends and family who supports and encourages us as well. Everything from sharing our posts, volunteering their time, referring a friend or booking the space themselves, we are so grateful to everyone.
Contact Info:
- Address: 57 W 159th St., Harvey, IL 60426
- Phone: 708-713-5884
- Email: areaone59@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/areaone59/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/areaone59/
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