An Inspired Chat with Tionna Barksdale of Columbus

Tionna Barksdale shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.

Good morning Tionna , it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
“Integrity is most important to me because it sets the foundation for everything else. Intelligence and energy are powerful, but without integrity, they can be misused or lose their value. Integrity ensures that my actions align with my values, my words hold weight, and my leadership inspires trust. With integrity at the core, intelligence becomes wisdom, and energy becomes purpose-driven.”

Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
“I’m Tionna Barksdale, founder of Beautifully Crafted Interiors LLC, where luxury meets intention. My brand is built on the belief that elegance is not just seen, it’s experienced. From refined private dining to bespoke event design, every detail I curate tells a story of timeless sophistication.

What sets me apart in Columbus and beyond is that I don’t simply decorate spaces I transform them into living experiences that embody grace, beauty, and purpose.

Clients come to me for style, but they stay because I deliver substance: vision, excellence, and a standard of refinement that can’t be imitated.

Beautifully Crafted Interiors isn’t just a business, it’s a company that stands on creativity, poise, and unforgettable design.”

Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
“The person who saw me clearly before I could see myself was my grandmother. From the very first day I was born, she knew I was set apart born to be chosen, to stand out, and to walk in a purpose far greater than I even understood at the time. Her unwavering belief laid the foundation for everything I am today. And right behind her, my husband stepped in with the same faith, believing in me even more, giving me the confidence to pursue my vision fully and unapologetically.”

When did you stop hiding your pain and start using it as power?
“I stopped hiding my pain the moment I realized it could fuel my purpose instead of define me. I am not defined by the obstacles I’ve faced whether early childhood experiences, the sting of racial discrimination in college, financial setbacks, or even surviving a car accident that could have silenced my vision.

As an African American woman, I’ve learned that every challenge was not meant to break me, but to build me. I chose perseverance over pity, faith over fear, and vision over limitation.

What has carried me through every season is my trust in God. I trust Him with my whole heart, my mind, my soul, and my spirit. That unwavering faith is my anchor, my strength, and the reason I continue to rise.

No matter what comes against me not even bullying from adult women I know who goes before me. I serve only the one true and living God Jesus who called me, set me apart, and continues to open doors that no one can shut.”

Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? Is the public version of you the real you?
“Absolutely Darling! The public version of me reflects the true me. I conduct myself with integrity, live in truth, and carry a quiet confidence in who I am. Over time, I’ve cultivated this confidence and never allow others to diminish my worth or break my spirit.

Regardless of the circumstances, publicly or privately, I remain steadfast in my identity, unwavering in my values, and true to the person I am called to be.”

Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. Could you give everything your best, even if no one ever praised you for it?
“Absolutely. I give my best in everything because excellence is a reflection of who I am, not of the recognition I receive. True success is measured by integrity, consistency, and the care we put into our work, regardless of applause. I hold myself to a higher standard, knowing that honoring my purpose and giving my all is always worth it.”

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.beautifullycraftedinteriors.com
• Instagram: https://tr.ee/ZkPbEs-wzn
• Linkedin: https://tr.ee/ZkPbEs-wzn
• Youtube: https://tr.ee/s3Rur0UgY1

Image Credits
All images taken by @BeautifullyCraftedInteriorsLLC