We were lucky to catch up with Dana Jordan recently and have shared our conversation below.

Dana, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Did you always know you wanted to pursue a creative or artistic career? When did you first know?

From a very young age, I have always been drawn to the stage! I sang before I spoke and I was never afraid to perform for others. When I was 5 years old, my father got me a karaoke machine that came with a cassette tape with several songs on it to sing along to. I sang on that little machine everyday and would dance around in front of the mirror pretending I was on stage! From that moment on, I was hooked and I knew that I wanted to be a performer!

Dana, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I studied music in school and dreamed of being a professional musician all my life! But I lost my music when I was 21 years old. I became a mother and a wife and I felt like it wasn’t “my turn” to focus my dreams and aspirations. It was 15 years before I found my music again… During my musical PAUSE, I began working in the service industry as a bartender. I quickly realized this was a job that made me feel like I was performing on stage too! I continued working as a bartender for many years and began to turn it into a creative art in 2020. I started a new job at a high level craft cocktail bar that opened my eyes to the world of craft mixology! I started to see my cocktails as an opportunity to make my guest feel special! I began focusing on the EXPERIENCE I could offer my guests. I started using edible flowers, dry ice aromatics & several different types of smoke to create stunning presentations for each drink! I began to notice my guests would light up and take a picture or video of each cocktail! I could tell the felt so special and that was exactly what I wanted to give. I started The Olde Fashionista LLC in 2021 and have been offering in home cocktail classes, bourbon tastings and event bartending that is truly memorable!

Now, I am 39 years old and I have found my music again! I share my music weekly with Rose & Thorn duo bringing chill vibes to all patrons. I also get to fulfill my dream and perform on big stages as the new lead singer of Sweetleaf! I get to make people feel special by serenading them into a good mood after a rough week. I get to touch their hearts by taking their requests and performing their favorite songs just for them! I am so grateful I have the opportunity to share my art with others. It brings me so much joy and I can’t wait to see what the next chapter of my life looks like!

In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?

Some of the most helpful things people can do to help any artist or creative is to tell all your friends, like and share their social media posts, and show up to support them at their events! We only want to spread our love and our art with as many people as possible! Your kind words and support are so helpful and appreciated!

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

The most rewarding aspect of being a creative is spreading the love and making people feel something! We all are seeking connection with others and with music and cocktails, I can do something for YOU! I want to make you a special cocktail that isn’t on any menu that I curated after asking you questions about your favorite flavors! I want to sing your wedding song so you and your husband can relive one of the happiest moments of your life! I am always just trying to bring some love and joy into your life. And when I do that, I feel the joy ten fold!

Contact Info:

• Website: https://Sweetleafband.com
• Instagram: @theoldefashionista
• Facebook: Rose & Thorn Music
• Youtube: @OnlyThorns-Music

Image Credits

Dani Angell