Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Shultz.
Hi Crystal, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I graduated from Hardin Simmons University with a Bachelor’s in Business Administration. I came to DFW area after graduation in 2008 and began a career in Human Resources. After taking a pause in my career to raise my three kids for the past 12 years, I didn’t know what exactly I wanted to do when I entered back into the workforce but I knew I wanted to serve others and bring joy to whatever I put my hands to. Through a lot of relationships appointed by the Lord Himself, I became the new owner of The Flat Downtown in Downtown Rockwall a little over a year ago. I have always enjoyed creating beautiful, safe spaces for others to come in and celebrate all of life’s milestones no matter how big or little those celebrations may be. And now, I get to do this on a daily basis! It’s such an honor to hear each guest’s story and host their special occasion. This role that I get to step into in our community and serve the people of Rockwall in this capacity has truly been a dream come true. Recently we purchased a successful photography studio to become a ‘sister’ property of The Flat Downtown. So now we can offer two spaces. One focused more on professionals to capture life’s magical moments and one for guests to celebrate them!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I think anyone who has been in business longer than 5 minutes has experienced struggles. This past year has been no exceptions of hardships, heartache, and headaches. But I am truly grateful for each one as they have shaped and transformed not only my business but me as a business owner.
We’ve been impressed with The Flat Downtown, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My heart has always been drawn to spaces where people feel seen, celebrated, and inspired. What started as a dream to simply host meaningful gatherings has grown into two locations with the same heartbeat. Eleven 41 Studio & Greenhouse and The Flat Downtown Event Venue are both built on the belief that a space can be so much more than four walls.
The Flat Downtown event venue is a sweet space that offers a ‘flat’ rate pricing. We promise we do not nickel and dime you, add on any fees, or limit you to certain vendors/caterers. We honor your vision and your budget every step of the way!
Our photography studio and greenhouse is located only 2 miles from our event venue. This offers professionals to come capture the milestone moments.
So whether it’s celebrating a milestone or capturing one, I love to provide settings that feel welcoming and like home! To me it will always be more than just a space—it’s where your story unfolds and it’s an honor to host each guest’s story.
Can you share something surprising about yourself?
Something surprising about me that most do not know is that I always thought you had to choose between raising a family and owning your own business. I always thought if I were to work, I would be working for someone else’s dream. I didn’t take in to consideration my own dreams and how to make them a reality until I surrounded myself with people who saw the gold within me and began to call it out. It has been quite a journey this past year being not only a small business owner but juggling all the responsibilities of wife and mom as well. Finding that rhythm and unifying those two parts of my life have brought some of the biggest life lessons and growth within myself. I’ve learned that I can have both dreams- family and business! What a joy it is to see these dreams become reality!
Pricing:
- $600 flat rate pricing for 4 hour events
- $80-$100/ hr for studio and greenhouse rentals
Contact Info:
- Website: www.theflatdowntown.com
- Instagram: @theflatdtown and @eleven41_studio
