Today we’d like to introduce you to Shana Gallien.
Hi Shana, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I grew up loving paper and stationery in general. My Mother managed a Balloon/Gift Shop in Houston during my teen years and I would help and work with her. It was always so fun, creative, and fascinating to me. Since then, I have become a local rap artist, a Mother, a Wife, and an Entrepreneur. In October of 2020, I was hospitalized for a month, due to a bone marrow infection and it changed my life forever. I found many blessings in my darkness. I was saved by Jesus, and I had a bright vision from God to become a Gift Wrapper. And, that is honestly how THE PRESENT GIFT was made into a business, (not just a hobby). During my inpatient stay, I lost a bit of memory, strength, and weight. It was a scary and uncertain dark period for me. But thanks to my Heavenly Father, and my family I made it through, and I am back to normal in all areas of living. I am doing what God instructed me to do, and it feels extraordinary! I find so much pleasure in seeing people smile at the things I wrap. It allows me to be creative, and make normal things beautiful. I can be an artist without using a paintbrush. It’s simply amazing! I also do a drawing every other month, and for holidays, for a free service or gifts, just because. The Present Gift, provides gift wrapping all year round. We deliver, and can wrap for individuals or companies. In the coming years, I hope to have a few storefronts, and a mobile bus to wrap on location during the Holiday rushes.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The obstacles have been getting continuous daily business. Its so easy for people to grab a bag and tissue paper nowadays. Gift wrapping is vintage to most. Being in the right part of town is a challenge. Nobody wants to travel to Rosenberg. LOL.
Being a one woman show is hard also, but I love what I do, and I have so much support. I just wish I would have taken my talent more seriously, earlier in life.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am an artist of some sorts. I specialize in gift wrapping, and that is what I am known for….Making the outside of a gift look beautiful, before they even see what’s inside. I do regular classic wrapping or I can do embellished specialty wrapping, and be creative as I want to be.
I am most proud of just putting myself out there and turning my hobby into a career after all this time.
What sets me apart from others is that I am humble, I am a woman of color, and I’m doing something professionally out of the ordinary, and I’m glad I’m still learning.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
I grew up in Houston and now reside and work in Rosenberg, TX for the past 6 years. What I love about Houston is the diversity. It’s a beautiful city full of so many cultures, and welcoming people. What I like least about Houston, is that it’s becoming congested, and might I add the traffic at 5 o’clock is crazy. But, I love my city for all it is.
Contact Info:
- Email: thepresentgift4u@gmail.com
- Website: www.thepresentgift.biz
- Instagram:@the.presentgift
- Youtube: thepresentgift
- TikTok: @thepresentgift
