Meet Vonnie Tatum | Attorney & Entrepreneur

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

Hi Vonnie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I knew I wanted to create a space that promoted creativity, social interaction and community engagement. I figured we have plenty of bars, restaurants and clubs. It was time to introduce a concept that allowed customers to learn something new while not missing out on that nightlife experience.

I always loved visiting paint and sip studios and thought the paint and sip industry was such a clever way to get adults back into the arts. What was missing for me, however, was the adult-like “feel.” I didn’t want to feel like I was actually in an art class. I wanted to feel like I was out on the town, enjoying wine with my friends, free to dance and socialize.

Out of all the studios I’ve visited, none of them ever offered that type of experience. So I decided to create it myself!

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
It’s amazing to now be living out my childhood dream. When I was younger I wanted to be three things: a lawyer, business owner and an actor. I realized early on that acting may not have been my calling, but becoming a lawyer and business owner certainly were.

I managed to accomplish both in the same year, during a pandemic and a Texas snowstorm. I think that alone speaks to how unconventional and challenging this journey has been. But the most invaluable thing I learned in the face of those challenges was to always trust my instincts and stay true to the vision God has given me.

I had to silence a lot of self-doubt, unsolicited opinions, and the fear of failure to get to this point. I read a quote that said “there comes a point where a dream becomes reality, and reality becomes a dream.” For me, this is that point.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
First stop, of course, Art and Vibez Lounge! As Houston’s only Paint and Sip Lounge, Art & Vibez offers a paint and sip experience you can’t find anywhere else in the city. From the playlists, to the fun instructors and trendy artwork, there’s something there for everybody. Not to mention it’s BYOB (and for a limited time they’re even offering FREE cocktails). Next stop, since we love good food and great vibes would be Lost & Found. A great place to sit outside on the patio, converse and enjoy some specialty cocktails. We would also have to find time to visit one of Houston’s interactive museums like The Color Factory.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Without a doubt, my family and close friends! From day one, they’ve embraced my extreme optimism and over-the-top ideas. They never questioned my ability to pursue and accomplish my dreams. Their faith in me is what continues to motivate me.

Website: Www.artnvibez.com

Instagram: @vonniet_

Linkedin: http://linkedin.com/in/vonnietatum