Pictured at top is the Monticello team of “divas.” Front row, from left, Skyler Cole, Sharnette Watkins, Becky Waldrop, Macey Greenlee. Back row, from left, Savannah Hall, Jimmie Grace Anderson, Grace White, Beth Creel, Jordan Anderson
Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, Williamson has seen her business roll with the punches. “We definitely went through the hard part of the first two months of it,” Williamson said. “We have stayed in operation through the entire pandemic.” The divas have personal protective gear in place, along with masks and foot covers. Despite the pandemic, business has soared for Southern Domestic Diva, with the Mississippi branch rising 30% since March. “I think this year has taught us all a lot of patience,” Williamson said. “It’s 46 BROOKHAVEN MAGAZINE
taught me to keep going and taking on new tasks. You have to keep going. When life gives you lemons, you’ve gotta make lemonade.” To shine light on her upbringing, Williamson named her company Southern Domestic Diva. In college, a friend of hers commented on her demeanor and how much of a diva she was, so it stuck. Her employees are encouraged to wear red lipstick, as many women in the South were raised to not leave the house without lipstick on. Williamson herself lives by this, and this is why her company’s slogan is “I
believe in red lipstick.” Her employees, even have shirts with the saying on it. They also have personal protective masks with red lips on them. “I’m trying to make an environment that’s fun to work in,” Williamson said. “It’s fun and out of the norm.” For Williamson, this isn’t just branding, it’s a way of life. “I believe in strong women and bringing them together,” Williamson said. Having her company grow isn’t Williamson’s only goal. Not only does she want to succeed, but she wants to see her team succeed as well.
