We recently had the chance to connect with Shelby Stephens and have shared our conversation below.
Good morning Shelby, we’re so happy to have you here with us and we’d love to explore your story and how you think about life and legacy and so much more. So let’s start with a question we often ask: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Outside of work, something that has brought me a lot of joy is spending time reading the Word and growing in my relationship with God. It’s given me a stronger sense of purpose and perspective, and it carries over into my work. I’ve found that it not only brings me peace and clarity personally but also helps me approach my work with more intention and meaning.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, my name is Shelby Stephens, and I’m the owner of Four Fifteen Estates, a wedding venue created to celebrate love, legacy, and unforgettable moments. What makes our venue unique is that it was designed with both beauty and intention in mind. From the traditional white chapel to the peaceful woodland ceremony space to our charming tiny homes for overnight stays, we have built this estate to where everything is one location. My husband and I poured our hearts into building this space, not just as a venue, but as a place where couples can feel cared for and fully present on one of the most meaningful days of their lives. We’re continually working on creating new experiences and thoughtful touches that make each wedding feel personal and seamless, and it’s been such a joy to see those dreams come to life
Amazing, so let’s take a moment to go back in time. Who taught you the most about work?
The person who taught me the most about work was my grandmother. She had an incredible work ethic, beginning her days around 4 a.m. and often not ending until 11 p.m. She had her hands in so many things, but what stood out to me most wasn’t just how hard she worked. It was how she worked with people. No matter how busy she was, she made every single person feel seen and heard. That balance of dedication and genuine care has deeply influenced how I approach my own work today.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, in the very beginning I definitely had moments where I felt like giving up. I was working multiple jobs, including a full-time career as a chemist, and trying to build the venue on top of that was overwhelming. At the time, it felt like the responsible and stable choice would be to keep my career and let go of the venue. But deep down I knew the venue was where my heart was, so I made the leap to leave my job and pursue it fully. Looking back, it was the best decision I’ve ever made! It not only gave me the opportunity to do work I love, but also to create something meaningful that impacts others
So a lot of these questions go deep, but if you are open to it, we’ve got a few more questions that we’d love to get your take on. What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
I think my closest friends would say that what truly matters to me is faith, family, and making a meaningful impact on others. I care deeply about the people around me whether it’s my loved ones, my team, or the couples I get to serve through the venue. They would probably tell you I’m someone who wants to create spaces where people feel valued, cared for, and inspired. At the end of the day, relationships and leaving a positive legacy matter to me more than anything else
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What is the story you hope people tell about you when you’re gone?
The story I hope people will tell when I’m gone is that I lived with purpose, faith, and love. That I poured my heart into my family, my work, and the people around me and that I made others feel seen, valued, and cared for. I hope they’ll say I created spaces, both in life and through the venue, where people could experience joy, connection, and beauty. More than anything, I want to be remembered as someone who pointed others toward God.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fourfifteenestates.com
- Instagram: fourfifteenestates
- Facebook: fourfifteenestates
