St Johns Chamber Member Profile-Hayley Williams

How long have you or your organization been a member of the Chamber?

We have been a part of the chamber since September 2022, when we began opening our Piano Bar. 

How have you, or your organization benefited from membership in the St. Johns County Chamber of Commerce?

It has been comforting to know we have the support of The Chamber. Hurricane Ian flooded our business on our opening day and immediately someone from the Chamber not only called but stopped by to see if we needed help. The service industry is constantly changing and can be overwhelming at times. It’s nice to know we have the support of The Chamber in times of need. 

What career advice do you live by? 

The Career advice that I live by is to give it your all no matter what you are doing. Whether you are running a company or cleaning floors you should put forth your best effort. I believe this will set you up for success in whatever you are trying to achieve. 

What are the biggest challenges facing St. Johns County today?

The biggest challenges facing St Johns County are the large corporations coming into our town and trying to take over. Small businesses are struggling to survive and keep up with the corporations. I have seen many small businesses close since the pandemic. I think we need to shift back to supporting our community rather than corporations. 

How do you define success?

I define success as happiness. You could have everything in the world and if you are not happy you have nothing. I know many people who have worked all their lives, have the newest and nicest things, yet are never truly happy or satisfied. I think success goes beyond what you have, success is how you live. 

What past experiences or roles have led you to where you are today?

I have always worked helping my friends open and run their small businesses. I think by watching them create their businesses from nothing I was inspired to create something that I could take great pride in. By watching my friends run their own businesses I realized that I didn’t want to work for someone else all my life, I wanted to have the freedom of working for myself. I wanted the chance to share my ideas with my customers. 

What is a fun fact about you?

A fun fact about me is I went to University pursuing a degree in English and Psychology. My plan since I was a little girl was to be a teacher. I started working in the service