Freda’s Fabulous Creations launches with ribbon cutting

Freda’s Fabulous Creations, LLC, which specializes in imaginative decorations, celebrated its ribbon cutting Aug. 15 with the help of the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce.

Owner Alfreda Banks worked with the Illinois Small Business Development Center for the Metro East at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville and Director Jo Ann DiMaggio May to help bring Banks’ passion for decorating to life.

As a certified interior decorator, Banks brings alive her clients’ creative visions. Whether it be a home, venue, business or event, her business goal is all about making decorating dreams a reality.

Banks has always enjoyed decorating as a hobby. After years of decorating for others and being told that her house should be on a magazine cover, she finally realized her gift.

“I love to see people happy, and if I can do that through decorating, that is what I am going to do,” Banks said. “My goal is to give God the glory through sharing my gifts to help transform people’s lives.”

Banks is humbled and grateful to the SBDC and DiMaggio May for all of the guidance.

“Throughout the two years I have worked with the SBDC, Jo Ann has been an amazing mentor to me,” Banks said. “It has been a pleasure having her as a part of my team, along with my family and friends, cheering me on. This is truly a gift in itself.

“I also want to give a special thank you to my daughter, Mia Reed, and aunt, Myra Banks, for their consistent help and support, as well as to Megan Grove and the SBDC team for helping share my story.”

Bank’ plan for the future is to have her own store building, one that is staged for customers to experience her creativity and unique decorating skills, and to offer event space.

Additionally, Banks is planning to expand Freda’s Fabulous Creations to feature her baking and cupcake decorating skills. She hopes to grow the company through sweet treats, and specifically through her famous #jassycaramel cupcakes.

Banks’ business provides the opportunity to play an important role in a customer’s special day or event.

“Alfreda has been working hard to make her business dreams a reality,” DiMaggio May said. “She is always eager to listen and learn, so that she can make the best decisions for her business. I enjoy supporting her and seeing her shine. She is making great progress, and I look forward to all of her success!”

Contact Freda’s Fabulous Creations at (618) 540-0866. For more information, visit Freda’s Fabulous Creations on Facebook.

To learn about the SBDC, contact the Illinois Small Business Development Center for the Metro East at (618) 650-2929.

PHOTO: Owner Alfreda Banks, center with scissors, prepares to cut the ribbon with the help of members of the O’Fallon-Shiloh Chamber of Commerce and the Illinois Small Business Development Center for the Metro East.