Today we’d like to introduce you to Shanay Butler.
Shanay, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
My journey started in 2015 from a simple desire: I wanted to build something of my own while still being present for my daughter. As a single mom, flexibility mattered, but so did doing work that I genuinely loved.
Although I earned a degree in Information Systems and have spent more than 20 years working in administrative and business operations, graphic design has always been where my heart is. I taught myself design through years of practice, continuous learning, and real-world experience. Over time, I expanded my services beyond graphic design to include branding, website design, marketing materials, and business support solutions.
In 2024, I rebranded from Shay Lanae Designs to Creative Suga Design Studio, a milestone that reflected both personal and professional growth. Today, Creative Suga is a full-service creative studio dedicated to helping businesses, nonprofits, and individuals build strong brands, tell their stories, and grow with confidence.
The road hasn’t been perfect. I’ve balanced a full-time career, motherhood, family responsibilities, and entrepreneurship—sometimes all at once. But those experiences have shaped the way I serve my clients. I understand what it’s like to wear multiple hats, and I love helping others turn their vision into something real. Every project is an opportunity to create something meaningful, and that’s what continues to inspire me every day.
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?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road. Like many entrepreneurs, I didn’t have the luxury of leaving my full-time job to pursue my business full-time. I still work a demanding career while running Creative Suga Design Studio, which means balancing deadlines, family responsibilities, client work, and everyday life all at once. One of my biggest challenges has been finding the time and energy to consistently invest in my business while avoiding stress, anxiety, and burnout. There have been seasons where I felt pulled in multiple directions—trying to be present for my daughter, excel in my career, support my family, and grow a business that I’m deeply passionate about. There have been moments when progress felt slower than I wanted because life required my attention elsewhere. Learning how to set boundaries, manage my time more effectively, and give myself grace has been just as important as learning design and business skills.
Despite the challenges, I’ve continued to move forward. Every obstacle has strengthened my resilience and reinforced why I started in the first place. Building Creative Suga has taught me that success isn’t always about moving fast—sometimes it’s about staying committed, even when the journey takes longer than expected.
As you know, we’re big fans of you and your work. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about what you do?
I am the Owner and Full-Service Creative Partner behind Creative Suga Design Studio, a full-service creative studio that helps businesses and individuals bring their ideas to life through strategic design and reliable support. My services include graphic design, branding and visual identity, website design, social media graphics, print marketing materials, and administrative and business support solutions. I specialize in helping clients create a cohesive and professional presence, whether they’re launching a new business, refreshing an existing brand, promoting an event, or simply trying to better connect with their audience. I am known for combining creativity with strategy, ensuring that every design not only looks great but also serves a purpose.
What I’m most proud of is the trust my clients place in me. Many of my clients return for additional projects and refer others because they know they will receive personalized service, honest communication, and a genuine partner who is invested in their success. Watching a client gain confidence in their brand, launch a new website, or see their vision come to life is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do. One of my proudest accomplishments is showing my now 15-year-old daughter what perseverance looks like. As a mother, full-time professional, and business owner, I’ve worked hard to demonstrate that with dedication, faith, and determination, it’s possible to make the impossible possible.
What sets me apart is that I bring both creative and operational experience to the table. In addition to being a designer, I have more than 20 years of administrative professional experience. That combination allows me to see projects from both a creative and strategic perspective. I don’t just focus on making things look good—I focus on helping clients achieve their goals. I strive to be more than a service provider; I aim to be a trusted partner who helps clients grow, stay organized, and move their vision forward with confidence.
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Outside of being a self-taught designer, I’m a dedicated dog mom, coffee connoisseur, and lover of stand-up comedy. I love organized chaos and I’m always looking for the next way to be creative.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.creativesuga.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/creativesuga_social
- Facebook: https://Facebook.com/creativesugadesignstudio
