We had the good fortune of connecting with Teana McDonald and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Teana, as a parent, what do you feel is the most meaningful thing you’ve done for them?
As a parent of two children, I believe that the most important thing I’ve done is to teach them how to “hustle” in the business sense. The pandemic was a true test of this! So many of took a major hit in our small businesses, I am one of the coronavirus casualties, most of my clients were in the retail, hospitality and event management industries – which took a huge hit. I had to do what we’re all calling our pandemic pivots, which is to figure out what services will work in this new normal and how I can sell those in a new and innovative way (Zoom etiquette classes, zoom backgrounds, managing webinars, and conferences online, speaking engagements, etc.) That’s exactly what I had to do and it was nice to have my children witness this “hustle.”
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We are a successful full-service marketing agency. We work with cutting-edge and traditional clients to create content that is effective and original. Our mission is to tell the true story behind a brand and its impact on customers by using robust digital strategies, targeted public relations campaigns, powerful events, and activations with a healthy community outreach component. Our culture is creative, collaborative and content-driven. We believe in powerful campaigns that highlight the many aspects of a brand and how they attract and connect with their audience. As a company, I am most proud of the clients that we have the pleasure of working with. From real estate to music venues we work with clients in a variety of industries. Our attention to detail, our dedication, and our commitment to step outside of the box and work tirelessly for our clients to ensure that they are successful. The ride was not easy! Looking back I appreciate all of those bumps and fear of the unknown. Not knowing when or how you’re going to get your next client, attending and joining tons of networking groups, bootstrapping your business, and not having enough cash flow and working 12, 14, 15 hour days to make sure the job gets done. Spending money on the wrong tools and resources because you don’t know what you don’t know. I remember working out of a loft from home and wondering if I’ll ever get out of this space, have an office, and hire some employees. Those times were rough but I made it through. It was the belief and vision that I had for my brand and my business. From the two unsuccessful businesses that I launched prior to 3E Connections, I learned that I was great at building a brand and creating a buzz. I took those skills and launched 3E Connections and I’ve been in business for 12 years and counting.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I am more of an outdoor lounge or hangout spot. My favorite go-to spots around town are The Wharf Miami, Tatts & Tacos (Fort Lauderdale), Tap42 (Fort Lauderdale), and Roccos Tacos (Fort Lauderdale). I am a foodie and absolutely LOVE Mexican food spots, overflowing drinks, and old school 90s hip hop & R&B.
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Absolutely! I have been involved with the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Fort Lauderdale/Palm Beach chapter for the past 13 years. I’ve been a president, co-president, and board member during my tenure. I would not be in business today if it weren’t for the countless women that have not only paved the wave for me to own a business but that have helped grow my business. It’s extremely important for women business owners to find that “special” group of their “people.” When I say their “people” I mean women who have been there and done that several times over. Women that we can learn from and women that we can educate. It’s not your average “networking” group, it’s so much more. You need help keeping your doors open, legal issues, a job for your husband, resources for your children, nothing is impossible for NAWBO to solve. It’s truly the go-to group for any woman in any stage of her business.
Website: http://www.3econnections.com/
Instagram: instagram.com/3econnections