Today we’d like to introduce you to Al Huggins

Hi Al, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?

My entrepreneurial journey began after I graduated from high school, during a time when I was uncertain about my future path. The military rejected my application, and my academic performance did not qualify me for college. Recognizing the need to support myself, I tapped into my creativity to devise a means of livelihood. However, the outcome has diverged significantly from my initial plans. I never anticipated relocating to Florida, and I have learned that one should be cautious about declaring what they will not do in life, as circumstances can unfold in unexpected and significant ways.

Opportunities for my company’s development often arise unexpectedly, necessitating swift decision-making on my part. I have come to appreciate the importance of networking, a skill I did not acquire early in my career. Engaging with others felt akin to a politician forging connections, as I strategically positioned myself to meet influential individuals. I approached the growth of my brand with earnestness, striving to present it to a wide audience. This journey has been a blend of exhilarating and daunting experiences, creating lasting memories and, hopefully, fostering positive changes in the lives of others.

Ones the company (Art N Soul) was established I diversified the company which took the company and me in a new direction working and meeting so many new people. What great growth and expansion, this provided a large platform with more responsibilities.

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 encountered many challenges during my journey. A major obstacle was the limited understanding that many had about both me and my business model in its initial phases. Furthermore, I dealt with financial difficulties stemming from the various costs involved in starting a business from the ground up. I gained real-time knowledge about business development by connecting with several successful entrepreneurs to gather insights that I could apply to my venture. This experience was often quite demanding and at times stressful.

Will all the changes and divarication, i was learning daily. The growth of social media was one of the major challenges to have to cope with and adjust to during the growth of the business, It was a true obstacle to have to keep up with many platforms, as we all know technology changes daily so i was not always up to speed on the latest platforms used, I played a lot of catching up at times.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?

I work as an art and entertainment consultant; my clients are primarily with various artists and local cities. For ten years, I worked with a specific municipality to enhance their signature events with creative and artistic components. I also offered guidance and resources to all participating artists, spanning music, culinary arts, and visual arts.

I also produced my events, one of them being the Sistrunk A Fair promoting artists of color and providing a platform for them to showcase their works and be recognized. I produced some smaller events and art exhibitions as well.

Work with the various communities as well as providing art classes at the county libraries and youth centers. Also worked with the sheriff’s department as well providing art classes and mentoring to youth.
Did worked with a local non-profit handing out food to families in need and was very instrumental in the organizing for ten years, which led to some art classes for the families and homeless shelters.

Did a lot of work with Dismas as well with projects and events that I needed staffing.

I am proud of all the work I have done within the arts overall, there are so many moments that could be considered a proud moment. I take all as growth and just hope it changes some life for the better.

I been told that my patience is something that sets me apart, the fact that it understands all points of view of a situation and stays levelheaded.

So, before we go, how can our readers or others connect or collaborate with you? How can they support you?

I am pretty much open to working or collaborating with anyone they just have to reach out to me and let’s have a conversation about some creative ideas, email is best [email protected]

Well, i have cash app and PayPal, that is always supporting options…

The best way to support what I do is to get me in front of the right people looking for someone to assist with larger events. Any companies that need an event consultant, manager, community liaison or producer for an event. Word of mouth has been the most effective way to support what I do for clients. No event is too small or big and everything is worth a conversation.

I am always open to speaking engagements and interviews which is very supportive as well..

Pricing:

• Consultation $75.00hr
• Managment $55.00hr
• Production $120.00hr
• Speaking Engagements 100.00hr

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.artlyfe.com
• Instagram: art_lyfe_production_
• Facebook: Artlyfe
• Twitter: Art3066n
• Youtube: @artlyfe3216