This is what I love about social media . . . I love the shoutouts, I love the empowering of other people, and I love using it for good to uplift other people around us. I especially love watching other mommas succeed and get support from other women around them.
If you are in the 843 and have been on social media, there is a good chance you have seen someone share a piece of art from the fabulous Heidi Oates. At one point, I saw four different people I follow share some art of Heidi’s all at the same time.
I am blessed to know Heidi. I know her from church and a bible study. In the short time I have known her, I have watched her business grow, and her artwork pop up all over the Charleston area. I have even been to places and heard people recommend her to others and I got to say, “Oh I know her; she is amazing.”
So if you aren’t following her yet, I am sure you will be after this so you can see what new art she is up to. For now, I am excited for you to get to know Heidi Oates — the woman behind the paint.
Moms to See in the 843: Heidi Oates
Heidi Oates, tell me about you. Tell me about your kids, your husband, your home, your life!
I grew up in Summerville, SC so I consider myself a Charleston Native. A unicorn here, really! I have been married for 15 years to Matt and we have two children, Brooklyn (14) and Brayden (9). Jesus and my family are my top priorities and artwork comes right after that. It is my passion and my therapy. I love to move my body, work out, eat right but also indulge occasionally.
How did you start your passion for art?
I have been an artist my entire life and even went to school initially for art education. However, I quickly changed my major after not wanting to do studio time for professors telling me what to paint. I have always wanted art to be about what I want to do over what others want — and this has even carried over to my current business. My inspiration comes from all things coastal and God’s creation. I love using different mediums, different styles, and not being put into a box over what art looks like to me.
Did you have a feeling that your passion for art would turn into a business?
When I started staying home 10 years ago, I had no idea what it would look like today. My business has changed over the years to make it more “me.” I always thought it would be difficult to make a living as an artist. What started off as just a hobby has grown into a full-fledged business and I am so grateful. I am a huge believer that if you want something bad enough, you’ll do the work to make it happen — even when it seems scary, even when you don’t know the outcome. Be scared and do it anyway.
How do you balance mom life and work life? Do you have any tips for us mommas?
BOUNDARIES. Sometimes I struggle with this greatly. My priority is my family over business. I have a list of non-negotiable things every day. For me it is time with Jesus, moving my body, and being home by the time my kids get home. This means I am home by 3:30 every day. I limit the projects I take on so I can do that. When I’m not painting, I answer emails and work on new quotes while my family is at school or work so they don’t see me constantly on my phone. I don’t always get it right, but I’m constantly progressing.
What is the most challenging part of your job?
Again, boundaries and wanting to people please. I’m a one-woman show so it can be difficult to get to emails, quotes, go out for measurements, upload content, all the things. But having set boundaries and being okay if I don’t get to an email in a week has helped me greatly. I refer people to my email to contact me about upcoming projects so I am not communicating 24/7 with people over all the different channels. Owning your own business could be 24/7 work. But it’s up to you to set those guidelines to not overrun yourself.
What has been your favorite piece? Why?
This is a tough one. I love so many pieces. But mostly when I can just do what feels right and when I have the artistic freedom to create a piece. I love the pieces that come together naturally, and anything coastal. My most recent favorite was a palm scene I just whipped up for my own home.
What are your goals for the future?
My goals for the future are to keep doing what I love. To stay true to myself, to not people please, and to not say yes to everything.
What is the advice you would give to a fellow momma who wants to start a business?
Just get started. Imperfect action beats imperfect inaction every single time. And the best way to do it is just to do it. My business has evolved greatly over the past nine years. I have pivoted and changed. The hardest thing is to keep my blinders on and be okay with my journey not looking like others. That is okay because it is mine.
How can people get connected with you?
The best way to connect with me is through my email ([email protected]). You can also find me on Instagram and Facebook.
Check out more of our Moms to See in the 843 series by clicking on the image below!
