We had the good fortune of connecting with Tamela Denton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tamela, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
When it came to starting Office Hours, my goal was to bridge my love for reading and yapping. I wanted a space where people wouldn’t feel pressured to read a particular book, but rather come together and form a community to engage in conversations about the books we’re reading and the lives we’re living.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I spent my entire childhood with either my nose in a book or talking someone’s ear off. That love for communication and curiosity led me to earn a bachelor’s degree in Public Relations from The University of Texas at Austin. From there, I worked in education as a library assistant, sharing my love for books and storytelling. I’ve since shifted into the corporate world, but my passion for reading has remained a constant in my life. The desire to have a space to discuss books without the pressure of assigned readings led me to create Office Hours.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
As a suburban girl, when I travel to the city, I have specific places in mind. Cottonwood, Saint Arnold Brewing Company, Xochi, Cocody, and Bungalow Downtown Dining are some places I’d recommend for eating and drinking. I love that there’s always something to do in Houston, from markets and museums to sports games and concerts.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to give a shoutout my mom, my biggest supporter, and the reason I believe I can do anything I set my mind to.

Instagram: officehourssocial

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutHTX is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.