Stephanie Gardner shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Hi Stephanie, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
While I think all three matter, integrity wins every time. Intelligence can help you build a strategy, and energy might get you in the room- but integrity is what keeps you there. It’s doing the right thing when no one’s watching (or when it’s not profitable), and that’s what builds trust and longevity in business. Clients may come for the creative ideas, but they stay because they know we’ve got their back. And let’s be honest- broken promises don’t build a brand.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Stephanie- Creative Queen behind Candid Creative. My journey as an entrepreneur started in 2011 with Pretty Lovely Events, designing weddings, galas, and unforgettable moments. After a decade, I pivoted in 2021 to launch Candid Creative- a boutique marketing and event agency that blends strategic marketing with immersive brand experiences. What makes us unique? Our freelance-first model allows me to assemble a custom dream team for each client, ensuring fresh, bold ideas without excess overhead  .
Whether it’s a social media campaign, influencer activation, or a pop‑up event, we craft moments that spark engagement and spark joy. Based in southeastern Oklahoma, I’m proud to work with clients near and far- after all, creativity doesn’t need a zip code.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
As a kid growing up in a small town in Oklahoma, I assumed people in places like New York or L.A. were just inherently smarter or more talented than me. I thought success in creative industries had a zip code- and mine didn’t qualify. But over the years, I’ve learned that showing up with a unique perspective, strong work ethic, and a little grit can be just as valuable (and often more refreshing) than a flashy resume. Now I know that where you’re from doesn’t limit your potential- it just gives your story a different kind of power. And I hope to inspire others from “flyover states” to claim their seat at the table- because our ideas are valuable.
What’s something you changed your mind about after failing hard?
I used to think that being busy meant I was successful- that a packed calendar was proof I was doing something right. After the exhaustion led to near burnout, I’ve completely changed my mind. Now I believe real, sustainable success is building a life that has space for joy, rest, and the people you love- not just back-to-back deadlines. I still catch myself slipping into hustle mode, but I’ve learned that my worth isn’t defined by how much I do- it’s who I am when I’m just being.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. Whom do you admire for their character, not their power?
I admire the people who don’t have titles or power by the world’s standards but show up every day with integrity, kindness, and grit. The ones who take pride in their work, treat people well, and keep the world turning quietly behind the scenes. I’ll always be more impressed by someone with good character than someone with a big platform. Quiet power doesn’t need to announce itself- it shows up in how you treat people when no one’s watching.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid it all down, my name, title, and stuff, I hope what remains is my spirit. The way I light up when I get to create something meaningful, make someone feel seen, or turn a regular moment into a little bit of magic. I’d want people to still recognize my joy, my heart for others, and my curiosity for life. Because at the end of the day, our titles don’t tell our story, how we love and live does.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.candidcreative.agency
- Instagram: Stephanieelisegardner, candid.creative.agency
Image Credits
Tamra Horner Photography
