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- Stephanie's Relocation Story
Stephanie's Relocation Story
Born and raised in Miami to a Cuban/Colombian family, Stephanie followed her heart to England to be with her long-term boyfriend (now husband!) when she was just 18. After studying at the University of Central Lancashire, she lived and worked for a period in Bedfordshire before finally landing in Shropshire. Having worked in Shrewsbury for nearly ten years now, it's fair to say she hasn't looked back!
When Stephanie isn't escaping UFOs or Blitz-era spies at Level Up Escapes or admiring Shropshire's natural wonders, you'll find her leading the digital marketing team at CURIOUS, a branding and digital marketing agency helping national and local businesses shout about what they do.
How did I come to Shrewsbury?
My husband's family lived in Shropshire when they were younger, and they all ended up moving back because they loved it so much – parents, brother, niece, and aunt.
One of my best friends, Nikita, whom I met at university, introduced me to Shrewsbury during my first visit to Shropshire. She lived in Whitchurch and wanted to show me the area where she grew up. After exploring Shrewsbury and experiencing its independent shops, restaurants, and friendly atmosphere, I told her I wanted to work in a place like this someday. That was in 2011 and by 2014, I made it happen!
My dream is to one day live in the Shropshire countryside, overlooking an amazing view - maybe with a few alpacas thrown in too!
After exploring Shrewsbury, I knew I wanted to work in a place like this someday.
It's easy to love this town
Any time different members of my family have visited me from America, Shropshire has been their favourite. They absolutely loved Shrewsbury for its walkability, friendliness and fantastic food. They especially enjoyed the chicken wraps at Number Four, falafels and hummus at Plantkind and honeycomb gelato at Gelatistry.
Compared to areas down south, they definitely noticed a difference and much preferred this lifestyle! It’s small but still big enough to have plenty to do, and the architecture is amazing. I’ve been here for nearly ten years, but it never gets old walking around. I feel very lucky to work here!
The 9-5
I knew I wanted to work in a creative environment, and CURIOUS was the first place I contacted when I decided to move to Shropshire (and in my top spot!)
They weren’t actually hiring at the time, but I was eager to help with anything, and the timing ended up being perfect - they needed someone, and I fit the bill!
Shortly after moving, I became the agency's Studio Manager, handling a variety of tasks such as accounts, client management and organising the studio. Over the years, I've discovered my strengths in delivering the best results for our clients, building a strong and positive team, and managing people to bring out their best.
Shrewsbury is such a great place to work. Through your day, can find a variety of lunch options, meet someone after work, and even handle some life admin during lunch. My walk to work is relaxing and peaceful - it's such a beautiful town, where people greet you as you pass by. I have never found another place I've enjoyed working as much as here!
A typical day is...
Largely about managing the team to make sure we can do our best work. Emails are always a priority, but every day is different.
Speaking to new clients about marketing is a big part of my role, as well as finding top digital marketing specialists to enhance our team. Most of my time is spent building and managing a successful digital marketing team and ensuring our clients receive the best experience and results. It’s incredibly rewarding to help grow a client’s business through our efforts.
My work-life balance is amazing. I absolutely love what I do, and can switch off in the evenings and weekends.
My work-life balance is amazing. I absolutely love what I do, and can switch off in the evenings and weekends. I work hybrid hours, so I work from home twice a week for those moments when I need lots of focus, and I'm back in the office for more collaborative moments.
We have an incredible, supportive team, so when life happens, there’s always someone to help; it’s never all on one person’s shoulders. For example, I recently took a two-week holiday and was able to enjoy it without any worries, knowing that the team and processes were in place to keep everything running smoothly.
My Shrewsbury Faves
A quick bite for lunch
I'll often grab a sandwich from Phillpotts on Butcher Row - it's such a beautiful Tudor street, and the sandwiches are reliably delicious!
Dining out
I love to eat at Number Four, Dough & Oil and Giggling Squid - all delicious!
Day out
I'll visit the deer at Attingham Park, then pick up my favourite cakes at Crystal's Cupcakes, and I might head over to Paint & Splodge for an afternoon of pottery painting or book in at Level Up Escapes for a bit of a challenge! I love to see what's playing at Theatre Severn - I was never a fan of pantomimes until I went to see one of theirs; now I make sure to book tickets early, I love their shows!
Hidden gem
The enclosed churchyard at St Julian's - it's always so quiet and deserted, the perfect place for a peaceful lunch hour.
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