Sweet Chat: Stephanie Sheard, Founder of StephStyle101

Each Thursday this month, we'll feature a local influencer living the sweet life in Cincinnati. We'll learn more about what they do, what they cover, and why you might want to be following along. Thanks to Gigi's Cupcakes in Kenwood for hosting!

Stephanie Sheard has always loved helping her friends look and feel good. Whether it was showing them how to style certain pieces, offering tips on how to flatter their body type, or sharing her favorite new products, she's always been that girl.

After a while, she decided to take that help she was offering friends and turn it into a much bigger platform to help clients of her own. That’s when she launched StephStyle101, a styling service and fashion blog with an impressive social media following (22k on Instagram and 13k on Facebook). She provides practical fashion tips and styling advice that's a fit for any budget.

We sat down with Sheard (over some yummy Gigi's Cupcakes and coffee - so good!) to learn more about this fashionista on a mission to help others look and feel their best.

Cincinnati Refined: Tell me a bit about your non-work life!

Sheard: One thing I try to do daily for myself is get my gym time in. I love our local Blue Ash Rec workout classes. Plus it’s early morning social hour. Nothing like sweating it out with 20 of your friends at 6:15am! But in my spare time, I love family hikes, walks, jogging, exploring OTR and singing with our church’s worship team.

CR: Tell me about your career path and what led to where you are today

Sheard: I went to college for pharmacy. I graduated from UC College of Pharmacy in 2002, worked as a retail pharmacist for many years then switched over to mail order pharmacy, where I was the department manager. I was good at my job but was not loving the stress I brought home every day to my family. I wasn’t a present mom or wife. So five years ago, I quit my job. Something I never dreamed I could or should do! My husband had left his job in retail property management in 2010, to create his own business (online test prep review) and he was certain we could make it work on one income. When I left my corporate life, I was completely lost. Being a successful pharmacist was my identity. I jumped right into full time volunteering at school and church.

Then, about three years ago I had the bandwidth to dedicate time to StephStyle101. I began posting content on Facebook exclusively, plus helping clients who were looking for wardrobe help, offering my Closet Cleansing services. When I started to see growth, I added an Instagram account, slowly adding to my follower base. I also began connecting with local bloggers where we have created wonderful friendships, as well as a fun social community for support and encouragement.

CR: What is StephStyle101 to you and what makes it unique?

Sheard: I share brands and businesses that represent my STYLE. Life or fashion. The content I create is a true reflection of what I enjoy and why I think other folks may enjoy those things as well.

It’s so easy to get wrapped up in the quest for the all mighty dollar. To sacrifice values for a paycheck, and I’m not here to judge. But I only agree to partner with brands that I am comfortable sharing. When it comes to collaborations (paid or not), if the product/brand is not true to self, I will pass. Being authentic is what my followers want and expectanything less is not ok with me.

CR: What do you love most about what you do?

Sheard: There are so many things I adore about my job, but what do I love most? I cherish the new friendships that have come from my new role as an Influencer. I have met some of the most amazing Boss Babes (locally and nationwide), who are beautiful, supportive, creative and incredibly kind.

CR: What’s next on the horizon for you?

Sheard: This year, a large focus for me has been building stronger relationships with local businesses and it has been amazing! So many doors have been opened that I could have never dreamt of ...just, wow! So to say I am excited for the second half of 2021 is an understatement! I have so many great brands to share with my followers, plus some VERY exciting giveaways!

CR: Anything else you’d like to add?

Sheard: One extra thing I would like to add: being a content creator and influencer is not always rainbows and unicorns. It can be very taxing. It can shake your confidence and self esteem. I try not to get wrapped up in the comparison game, but I understand it can happen. It’s so easy to get sucked in. My key to success has been praying for guidance, keeping a positive attitude and always delivering my best!

CR: And, last but not least, what's your favorite Gigi's Cupcake flavor and why?

Sheard: Most important question of all! My favorite Gigi’s cupcake flavor... Citrus Berry Sherbet is the winner! I am such a fan tart flavors and this combo is absolute perfection...OMG!