What’s behind the dope exterior?

Images by Damian Parker (@d.clearview)

30-something-year-old Shannon, West End of Richmond, Virginia native, embodies the ‘crazy, sexy, cool’ demeanor. If you’ve ever been on the scene in RVA, Shannon is a face you’ve probably seen before. The city loves this woman, and she indeed loves the city back.

I’ve had the pleasure of meeting her during the preparation of our Mostly Sugar relaunch. She participated both behind the scenes with production, and as an acting model for one of our shoots. Black girl magic, black culture, drip, vibes— she brought it. She lives up to her Instagram name, FlyFlashyNRedd.

Something about the way she captures the room without even trying is so intriguing. Our team never heard her say too much on set— but when she speaks, she definitely says what she means. And her knowledge base and creativity? Wow. She’s talented.

At Mostly Sugar, we not only want to build community, but we strive to get to know the people within that community and share it with the rest of you. Let’s learn a little more about Shannon.

What do you do for a living?

Shannon: I create beautiful things. 

What do you love most about yourself right now?

Shannon: Every single thing! Growth changes everything when you’re committed to it. 

When do you feel the strongest?

Shannon: BEING ALONE!!! Being alone makes you mentally stronger, helps you to explore yourself, makes you more goal-oriented, keeps you away from unnecessary expectations, makes you fall in love with yourself, makes you learn how to create your own happiness, makes you independent makes you feel free and empowered, makes you more comfortable with your own company, & at last being alone helps you to define yourself without judgment of others.

When do you feel the most vulnerable?

Shannon: When I feel like connections are pure and genuine with no ill intentions. Also, when I’m being loved properly. 

Has anyone ever made false assumptions about you? If so, what were they and how did that make you feel?

Shannon: Not really. I think it’s pretty much what you see is what you get from me. With social media, I’m able to use my platform to showcase my personality and somewhat of my character. With memes and posts along with my own personal videos and pics of me, you can paint a picture of who I am. No facades and no pretending. What I showcase is all me. 

You have 24 hours to spend $100,000, what are you buying?

Shannon: I’ll start a nonprofit organization for single moms. 

Choose one quote you have to stand on and treat as your life’s mantra.

Shannon: This isn’t a dress rehearsal. Live your best life! 

Follow Shannon on Instagram: @flyflashynredd