We recently connected with Candace Renee’ and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Candace thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I attended KD Conservatory College of Film and Dramatic Arts where I studied every area of film, theatre, in-front of the camera, behind the scenes, crew, stage etiquette, set etiquette… everything you could think of when it came to the art, and I was like a sponge, soaking it all in.

Knowing what I know now, I wish I would have taken my education further by hiring an acting coach, a dialect coach. I wish I would have taken a class to learn a different language. I wish I would have just kept going, even when the odds were not in my favor.

The skill that I would say was most essential is one word – PATIENCE! (must I elaborate)

The obstacles that I face is being a single mom, working an 8-5 and still trying to balance everything in between. Often times I want to give up because I’m physically tired and my brain just doesn’t stop. I’m sleep deprived, sometimes unmotivated and disinterested. I have a good support system for my children but sometimes it can be really challenging when time just simply flies by.

Candace, 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?

My name is Candace Renee’, but most know me as CRenee’ (pronounced SEE-RENAE). Born and raised in Dallas, Texas, I am a proud mother of three, a business owner, an actress, and a creative force within the independent film community. I also serve as a Line Producer at JF Bailey Films, where I dive into production management, casting, and project planning.

My journey in entertainment began with a breakthrough performance as Dorothy in The Wiz—a role that lit a fire in me and revealed my calling in the arts. In 2001, I began teaching dance at Sister Act Dance Studio in Garland, TX, where I taught for nine years. During this time, I trained with esteemed local companies including Dallas Black Dance Theatre and Mahogany Dance Theater of Texas.

In 2003, I enrolled in KD Actors Conservatory in Dallas and officially launched my professional career in film, graduating in 2005. Since then, I’ve had the pleasure of performing in films, web series, stage plays, and co-hosting two online radio shows. I’ve also hosted red carpet events and grown into a key role at JF Bailey Films.

Lately, I’ve stepped into a new chapter: writing. I’m currently developing a project that will soon be announced, taking on a more expansive role in storytelling and production.

One of my core beliefs is collaboration. I’ll say it again: I believe in collaboration! What sets me apart is that I’m not afraid to share what I’ve learned. I truly believe there’s room at the table for everyone to succeed. I believe in celebrating others, supporting their journeys, and being a resource to those around me.

In this season of my life, I’m most proud of the strength I’ve shown. The path I’ve chosen is unpredictable and unorthodox—you have to be grounded, persistent, and ready for both the highs and the lows. I’ve learned that every “no” is just one step closer to a “yes.” I want my children to see that their mother chased her dreams without apology—and I want them to carry that fire forward into their own futures.

To my fellow creatives looking for their big break: know that we can go further, faster if we move together. There is power in unity, and yes—you can always catch more bees with honey.

What do you think is the goal or mission that drives your creative journey?

My current career goal is to build my production company, StarC Productions, into a one-stop agency that provides professionally trained film crew members for hire by film companies for their projects.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

As an actress, you hear far more ‘no’s than ‘yes’s, and the constant rejection can take an emotional toll, sometimes leading to depression. On the production side, resilience looks different—it’s about managing and balancing the diverse personalities of your team. Both aspects come with their own challenges, but I rely on my shield of determination to weather those unpredictable storms. It’s that inner drive that keeps me pressing forward, no matter what comes my way.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: crenee3865
• Facebook: Candace Renee
• Youtube: CRenee Miss Socialite Dallas

Image Credits

Otis Clayborne II