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

Hi Karen, how has your perspective on work-life balance evolved over time?
As a business owner and full-time college student, work-life balance is something that I am actively working on improving. When you love what you do, it begins to influence the way you view everything around you. You start finding inspiration everywhere, ideas everywhere, and that feeling is hard to contain. Before you know it, it’s late at night and you’re still grinding away. There have been many times where I have had to force myself to take a break to keep a balanced life. Even though I am constantly working, being my own boss allows me to create my own schedule and have the flexibility to spend quality time with my friends and family, and allows me to prioritize my school work. Balancing college, work, and life requires a lot of self-discipline and sacrifice. You have to take time to do things you enjoy and give your mind and body a break.

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.
To start, I would encourage my best friend to visit when the weather is briefly warm and flowers are blooming. We would pend a full day exploring Houston by starting with a brunch place in Houston. Followed by a stroll around Eleanor Tinsley Park for a surprise picnic!—because why not mix business and pleasure?! We would then spend the day at Minute Maid Park watching the Astros play. Afterward, We would grab dinner at Postino’s where we would spend the rest of the evening eating pasta and drinking wine.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family has supported every move I’ve made. From starting a picnic business to owning a venue. I am blessed with a family that is always willing to help me in every step I take. I couldn’t have done this without the support from my family. Especially my mother. She has helped me achieve my dreams and has never doubted my crazy ideas.

Website: styledpicnics.com

Instagram: @styledpicnics @styledplace

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.