Meet Franccesca Canales | SouthFloWithFran

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

Hi Franccesca, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Prior to starting my journey of the SouthFloWithFran brand, I was not one to welcome change or try something new. The first course I purchased was $500 and at the time I could only afford to put it on a credit card and looking back I have no regrets. Some people would think that’s crazy but I knew if I didn’t believe in myself and just start I never would. Launching my blog in 2020 at the time felt natural because I loved sharing all things foodie, staycation, and lifestyle. But in March of 2022, I decided to take a big risk and leap of faith and quit my full-time job to transition focusing 100% on my business. At the moment, I had so many ideas and an endless to-do list but I had a big-picture goal and vision that kept me focused. Taking a risk on myself and my business allowed me to pursue my passion and serve others. My encouragement to others would be if you have a calling for something just start! I told myself I don’t want to look back on life and question “What if?”

We’d love to hear what sets you apart from others, what you are most proud of or excited about. How did you get to where you are today professionally. Was it easy? If not, how did you overcome the challenges? What are the lessons you’ve learned along the way. What do you want the world to know about you or your brand and story?
When I entered into the creative and entrepreneurial space, the one question I asked myself was, how can I stand out in the crowd and offer something different than what is currently available? I began to evaluate what I’m good at, and what I love and combined it together to set myself apart. Not only am I an influencer that partners with brands for partnerships and collaborations but I’m a professional photographer that provides high-resolution images “that are magazine worthy” I’ve been told! I also create UGC (User-generated content) for brands that want to use short-form videos to grow their social brand presence. As well as, I offer 1:1 Mentorship which is a 4-week video call program that takes what I’ve learned and comes alongside someone that is looking to become an influencer or market their business. Most recently, I launched my SouthFlo Fellowship event planning, which represents my heart for bringing people together through FUN experiences while supporting and highlighting local businesses. I’m definitely multi-passionate and blessed to be where I am today! A huge thank you to my brand partners and clients that trust me to work with them! Something that I am most proud of is creating my full-service website, it was a dream to see this come to life. One of the biggest challenges after quitting my full-time job was feeling stuck and not happy with my blog, I knew I wanted to do more. One day while I was working at a local cafe I got so frustrated and began searching web designers on Instagram and took a screenshot of a few. I found Elizabeth McCravy and within minutes of being on her account, I knew I found exactly what I was looking for. She was definitely an answered prayer. I didn’t want to just be labeled as an “influencer” so I created my website that shows exactly what I do, testimonials from previous clients, and examples of my work to make my business a full-time job. I praise God for giving me the complete vision in 2020 and always leading me and blessing my business. He’s taken me further than I could have gone on my own. I still am every day in awe of what I’m able to do and the opportunities I’ve been able to experience.

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.
Any friend of mine that is visiting is always guaranteed to have the best trip LOL I love South Florida and everything it offers from the sun filled beaches to the the delicious food and all the unique local eateries. My personal brand is focused on all things foodie, staycation, and lifestyle from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Palm Beach so I’m the perfect person to ask! One of the first things, I would recommend is to check out my website https://southflowithfran.com/ to download some of my freebies, you’ll thank me later. Currently, I have my Staycation Packing Checklist which has a personalized list of what you’ll need for traveling local. As well as, Foodie Guide including 3 Food Halls, 3 Rooftop Bars, and 3 Brunch Spots. A little bit of everything! I would also highly encourage you to check out my blog for long-form content about my favorite spots to dine at, where to shop, travel destinations, and lots more! You’ll always find me discovering and exploring new hidden gems in South Florida!

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 am so thankful to say that I’ve always had a supportive and encouraging community! Two people who I couldn’t have done this without is my loving husband who has always been by my side and pushed me on hard days to focus on my “why”. He’s also my personal photographer and a part of so many of the behind-the-scenes of my business! He truly supports all my crazy ideas and loves that I am following my passion! The second person is my mom who has always cheered me on, the first one to like and share my posts on social media, and continuously prays for me and to do everything with excellence! A must-have book on my shelf is You Are The Girl For The Job by Jess Connolly. I highly encourage you to read it if you’re into those types of life-changing books that help you focus on your calling and purpose in God’s story.

Website: https://southflowithfran.com/

Instagram: @franccescacanales

Linkedin: @franccescacanales

Facebook: @southflowithfran

Youtube: @southflowithfran

Other: TikTok: @southflowithfran

Image Credits
MSP Branding Photography Annie Cooper Photography Melanie Anne Photo