MEET STEPHANIE SUMMERSON HALL
Founder, Estelle Colored Glass
You may have seen this colorful glassware taking the internet by storm. With stunning blue coupes, perfectly pastel martini glasses, and strikingly bright wine glasses, Estelle Colored Glass is changing the way we serve drinks.
With what started as a love of antiquing with her grandmother, Stephanie Summerson Hall’s passion for jewel-toned glass turned into a brilliant business plan. By offering heirloom-quality pieces with a modern edge, Estelle Colored Glass is changing the game for home entertainment.
We had the chance to sit down with Stephanie to learn more about the inspiration behind Estelle, along with a few tips on throwing the perfect dinner party.
Hometown: Holly Hill, South Carolina
Current city: Summerville, South Carolina
Alma Mater: University of South Carolina and University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill School of Law
Degree: Bachelor of Arts in Political Science & Juris Doctorate
Currently reading: Atomic Habits by James Clear
Currently watching: I don’t watch any TV
Favorite food to make: Homemade stuffing with a fresh made vegetable broth
Favorite food to eat: Rice
Tell us a little bit about your background—what professional or personal experiences sparked your entrepreneurial interest?
I practiced law for 10 years before transitioning to a full-time business owner. I became an entrepreneur in hopes of achieving a better work and family life.
What or who was the inspiration behind Estelle Colored Glass?
I began looking for colored glass pieces for a new home we had built.
I fell in love with colored glass as a child while treasure hunting with my paternal grandmother, Estelle.
Tips for hosting the perfect dinner party.
Preparation and fine attention to detail are the key factors to a dinner party from my perspective. Fresh flowers and seasonal fresh food are also very important. Also, it is important to make sure the guest list includes a mixed group who will mingle well with others.
How has being a woman impacted your professional experiences? What are some ways we can collectively support women in your industry?
Being a woman and African-American has been a double whammy for me. I constantly have to do 300% more to show the value I bring to the table. Women supporting other women is great because we can make lots of strides if we stick together and create our own tables to sit at when we are excluded from other tables.
What does wellness mean to you? In what ways do you make time for wellness while running a successful business?
Wellness means being intentional about taking quiet time for mental clarity and being proactive about staying in shape.
What’s one piece of advice that has helped you most in your professional career?
Follow your passion and it won’t seem like work.
Favorite cocktail or beverage to serve in Estelle glassware?
Sparkling juice.