Career Break — Personal Health & Independent Creative Practice - Self-Employed - Spartanburg, SC
(2020-08)
- Stepped back from traditional employment to manage a personal health matter while developing an ongoing independent practice in visual art and music.
- Maintained the discipline, focus, and self-direction of regular creative work; now returning to the workforce in a part-time, fully remote capacity that fits a sustainable schedule.
Barista - Starbucks - Spartanburg, SC
(2019-11 - 2020-07)
- Worked the drive-thru window full-time in a high-volume cafe — recognized as having the strongest customer connections in the store, with regulars routinely timing visits to her shifts.
- Served 200+ customers per shift while consistently meeting drive-thru service-time targets.
- Resolved order errors and customer complaints on the spot, turning frustrated guests into repeat customers.
- Handled cash and card transactions accurately; opened and closed registers with no shortages.
- Trained 4 new baristas on POS, drink preparation, and customer-service standards.
- Maintained store cleanliness, stocking, and food-safety standards throughout busy shifts.
Beauty Advisor - Ulta Beauty - Spartanburg, SC
(2019-03 - 2019-10)
- Greeted and consulted with 50+ customers per shift, recommending products across skincare, makeup, and haircare brands to match their needs and budget.
- Hit weekly sales and Ultamate Rewards sign-up targets through personalized recommendations and add-on suggestions.
- Processed sales, returns, exchanges, and rewards redemptions accurately on POS; balanced register at end of every shift.
- De-escalated customer complaints calmly; routed complex issues to leadership when needed and kept service standards high.
- Restocked shelves, maintained merchandising standards, and supported promotional resets during peak retail seasons.
