April Sheris is a serial entrepreneur, author, creative visionary for young entrepreneurs and CEO of Upland Avenue Productions – a diverse portfolio of publishing, media, and technology properties.
She has made strides in the realms of economic and social responsibility by launching a literary networking platform to bridge the relationship between the film, literary and journalism industries. This platform fostered new relationships with leaders in the state of Louisiana, as well as, placed indie writers in front of industry insiders and fellow peers.
Tell us a bit about your company and why you do what you do.
Upland Tea House offers the freshest Rooibos tea to encourage everyone to take a moment and enjoy the now. This concept of hustling 24/7 created burnout in my life and with burnout came sickness. I needed something that was natural, strengthened my immune system, and had healthy benefits to the body. I found all of this from one plant – the honeybush. What’s more important is that I found the importance of staying in the present moment with every sip. These principles were what sparked my passion to encourage this lifestyle with others. Our rooibos are sourced directly from award winning tea estates and cultivated at peak freshness.
As a public figure, how do you think being hailed as a role model impacts others and what pressure does it put on you?
Being a role model is parallel to living. You are serving as an inspiration to someone, either good or bad because we learn from each other. I keep that in mind as I go about my life but not to the extent that I lose the authenticity of my character. I love who I’ve become. I’ve worked hard for her.
What would the closest person in your life say if we asked them, ‘What is the one characteristic that they totally dig about you, and the one that drives them insane?
Everyone around me knows how laser focused I am when it comes to business. I try to provide the best possible interaction with me or my brand and focusing on the details of the task at hand ensures that. However, that is also what drives them insane, lol. When I’m laser-focused I also don’t return phone calls or texts until I’m done and have decompressed.
How do you market your business, and which tactics have been most successful?
Tried and true email marketing and SMS messaging have been a lifesaver. I can reach my audience wherever they’re at in their day without being burdensome. Ads could also be beneficial but for my brand having those direct conversations has been golden.
Do you believe there is some sort of pattern or formula to becoming a successful entrepreneur?
The magic is in consistency. If you show up for yourself everyday and remain committed to the goal then success finds you. Karma works both ways – what you put out for good comes back to you. So fall in love with consistency.
Do you sing in the shower? What songs?
Of Course! Besides the car, there’s nowhere else to perform live. Lol. I usually go full out on Beyonce, Adele, or Monica songs.
What was the last thing you dressed up as for fancy dress?
I believe the sidewalk is your catwalk, so I dress up every day. But, it was for the local opening of a winter bazaar. I love supporting the arts.
You are a new addition to a crayon box. What color would you be and why?
Cerulean Blue. I love the richness of the hue and how it reminds me of peace.
If someone was going to make your life into a movie, who would play you?
Hmmm, that’s a good question. I would have to say, Tessa Thompson. I love her approach to bringing a character to life and how it’s depicted on screen.
What would be the ideal food to have cooked for you on a date night?
Shrimp and Chicken Carbonara with grilled lobster tails. I’m a seafood lover naturally.
What would be a good theme song for your life?
I Was Here by Beyonce
Would you rather be the one in a movie who gets the hero/heroine or the baddie with all the good lines?
Definitely the baddie with all the good lines! Lol. Hero’s are cool but one liners become the soundtrack to daily life.
