Today we’d like to introduce you to Julia Sharrock.
Hi Julia, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
It all started when my cousin and I decided that we wanted to post pics of local restaurants and businesses for fun in June 2017. We both have a passion for supporting local businesses and love eating at new local spots. So we actually started Explore Ohio Food as a reference guide for both of us. I didn’t actually think people were actually going to follow us! LOL. It truly has been an amazing experience and honor to help these businesses through social media and spread local community awareness. I have met so many wonderful restaurant owners of the years and I can’t wait to meet more. Looking forward to discovering more local spots in Ohio.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The only challenge I’ve ever had is not having enough money in the bank so I can check out restaurants on the daily, LOL. But in all seriousness, there really haven’t been any obstacles or challenges for me since Explore Ohio Food is all about supporting local restaurants and businesses. I would say local companies have been receiving hardships especially going through COVID-19 in 2020 and so on. More than ever now, showcasing different restaurants through this platform is so imperative. Many businesses have closed down due to either not enough profits, employees or lack of a social presence. It breaks my heart whenever I see a business shut down. It’s not just the restaurant/business but the people behind it. It’s their livelihood. We are supporting someone’s dream.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
So aside from exploring local restaurants, I work as a creative visual designer at Q4 Impact Group which is a marketing agency. It’s a wonderful small company in North Canton, OH that I have been blessed to work at. We work for many industries such as mining & aggregates, heavy equipment, environmental, agriculture, distributors and small businesses. I do a lot of branding, photography, design, social media, events, trade shows and web design work.
I’ve been fortunate enough to have a nice camera to take all of these food pictures as I visit these restaurants. It certainly helps to be a visual person when taking pictures because it allows me to look at things differently. I provide free food photography for whenever a restaurant/business asks. Not something I necessarily advertise due to lack of camera equipment but it is something I do.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
Connecting and meeting with business/restaurant owners and being 100% supportive.
Contact Info:
- Email: exploreohiofood@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/exploreohiofood/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exploreohiofood
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@exploreohiofood?
Image Credits
Dante Boccuzzi
Akron Fowl & Fodder
Toledo Orchard Bar & Table
Port Clinton Thyme Table
Julia Sharrock
