Conversations with Annie Bee

Today we’d like to introduce you to Annie Bee

Hi Annie, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I grew up in many spaces in the Arts and Entertainment industry, from being in pageants as a young girl, to being a professional dancer in shows like the Nutcracker, performing all over Ohio and the Midwest with different dance troops, as well as being a musician. I am a percussionist and music is a part of my everyday life. As a young girl, my mother had me audition for commercials with FOX 28 and I became a kids club kid and was trained on commercial sets. I had learned so much just by being around industry professionals and having so many great mentors as a young child. After while fell in love with behind-the-scenes work, I ended up picking up a lot of BTS techniques which later became me falling in love with being a creative Director, watching everyone’s creativity flow, working together to pull off one big show or event.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
As a college student and later as a parent, managing my responsibilities wasn’t smooth, so I had to put my passions on hold. I wrongly believed I had to give up on my gifts, but I would advise my younger self to do things differently. After marrying my high school sweetheart, having two more children, and becoming a DV survivor, I pushed through a divorce. Despite the challenges, I’m now the happiest I’ve been in years. As a proud, single mama of three, I’m happy, safe, and able to grow. I’ve regained my creativity as an artist and am excited to share my work with others.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
As a seasoned Arts and Entertainment (Culture) professional, I bring a diverse background in VIP event management, creative direction, and education, with experience as a Stage Director, VIP Concierge, and was an instructor at the Ohio Media School. My skills include executive support, event coordination, and programming curriculum design. I’ve managed large-scale events and developed innovative educational approaches for adult students, children at CCS and the city Parks and Recreation. I’m proud of my previous work with the Arnold Classic Party
for the Pros, and the feedback I received from Grand Master Melle Mel and KRS-One during one of the high profile events I was involved with while supervising. I’m grateful to the teams that I have the opportunity to work with, since joining the Minority Film Coalition Production Team as a Creative Director and Producer. I also was welcomed to be the VP/COO of Company We Bleed Hip Hop. Recently, I was featured in mainstream news outlets for my story with Motherful and The RISE Project. I’m known for Bragging On Dope Individuals (BODI) in the industry and community with one of my favorite business partners and Co-Host DJIQ as we engage with our community on The Catch Up Show. I’m known for my energy, sometimes my voice, lol and ability to foster strong community partnerships as well as, shining light on others. Where I go, things grow. Now I’m the proud owner of my own business Cross Pollination Creations Inc. and The B.I.G. Experience LLC. both here to serve and support you as a creative professional and all seeking creative solutions for there events.

Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out?
I always advise people to be authentic, genuine, and kind in their actions. Furthermore, it’s essential to treat yourself with kindness and acknowledge that you’re meant to be. Stay positive and focused on making your thoughts a reality. Be gentle with yourself and recognize that connections with others are meaningful, even if they’re temporary. Let go of control when necessary, listen to yourself, and appreciate every version of you. Your moment is now. Love hard, love those who love you, especially you.

Contact Info:

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealanniebee/profilecard/?igsh=dnE5Yzl6c280Mndr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/12DAF3aXT7F/?mibextid=LQQJ4d