Today we’d like to introduce you to Shae Lynn Shaw.
Shae Lynn, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I am a writer and performance artist. My love for art and words started at an early age, and ever since, I have been on a journey to fulfill those passions. I enjoy playing outside the lines and encourage those I come in contact with to do the same. (Vulnerability is a precious treasure!) Writing for others is simply my illustration of love, and I thrive off of painting people’s stories through word art.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
I used to have a sign that said, “Penny for a Poem.” That’s how it all started. People were confused, but for me, it was about the words… the passion, not the paycheck. Since then, I’ve learned how to build my business without having to put a price on the art of poetry. Every story is different. I grow with experiences, and the more stories I get to be a part of, the more I am able to establish myself as an inspiring entrepreneur.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Party Poet story. Tell us more about the business.
I first started sharing my words by going to open mics across the DFW area. That eventually turned into participating in slam poetry contests, which was a whole new world for me. Being a BFA Theatre Major at TCU was definitely the catalyst that allowed me to be comfortable and confident in front of large crowds. From there, I integrated my words into the art scene when I’d attend shows and festivals to sell my paintings.
For each painting, there was a poem, and there, my outlets for creativity were able to coexist. It was only when my husband gifted me with a 1940’s Royal Typewriter that my official title as ‘Party Poet’ was born. From art gallery openings to charitable events to weddings, my words have found their home. From live performances to haikus typed on fine handcrafted paper and everything in between, stories come to life with Party Poet. I’m always up for new ideas and opportunities to showcase my art, so no event or occasion is off limits! Expanding Party Poet’s existence in every realm of life is not only my goal, but life mission.
As a relatively new business, I am still exploring opportunities to establish a name for myself outside of the close-knit community of artists in Fort Worth. I hope to continue writing customized poetry for special occasions on behalf of others, whether that be for weddings, anniversaries, life milestones, birthdays, holidays, or celebrations of life. Although my primary bookings are for personalized haikus in a ‘party’ setting, I’m looking forward to advancing my business endeavors into the world of motivational speaking for schools, conferences, networking and corporate events.
I also plan on professionally filming pieces I’ve written, getting a YouTube channel started, and expanding further into the world of social marketing. Being a full time Party Poet would be an honor and a privilege, and I look forward to making that dream a reality. Book me for your next ‘party’ – whatever that may be. I’m up for the challenge of artfully curating your life.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I happened to frequent a dog park and ended up meeting a woman whose daughter was about to get married. She ended up booking Party Poet for her daughter’s wedding reception, which at that point was my biggest gig yet. She was actually the one who helped me come up with the name ‘Party Poet.’
Obviously, I am eternally grateful for her… whether she knows it or not, she’s what helped me realize that I am a business, and should treat my art as such. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you, Carolyn!
Contact Info:
- Phone: 214-538-5578
- Email: PartyPoetDFW@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/partypoetdfw
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/partypoetdfw
Image Credit:
Jenni Johnson Photography, f8studio
Getting in touch: VoyageDallas is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
