Influential Woman · Hospitality
Shameka A. Jones, MPM, PMP, CSM
Entrepreneur, Co-Founder, Champagne Problems
Atlanta, GA 30281
Her Story
About Shameka
Shameka A. Jones is an entrepreneur, hospitality professional, and strategic business leader who has successfully combined nearly two decades of IT & Business Management Consulting expertise with a passion for creating exceptional guest experiences. Her career began in IT business management consulting, where she led complex initiatives, managed stakeholder relationships, and delivered transformational business solutions across multiple industries. In 2023, she partnered with a fellow entrepreneur to develop the concept for Champagne Problems, a luxury champagne bar and experiential hospitality brand. After opening in 2024, the business quickly established itself as a destination for curated pairings, live entertainment, private events, and premium off-site bartending and catering services throughout the Atlanta area. Drawing upon skills developed throughout her corporate career, Shameka seamlessly transferred her expertise in planning, execution, and customer engagement into the hospitality industry. Her foundation in service excellence, however, was established much earlier during her active-duty service in the U.S. Army, where she worked in protocol supporting senior military leadership. In that role, she coordinated lodging, itineraries, formal events, and high-level visits for domestic and international dignitaries, mastering the details that define exceptional hospitality. Today, she applies that same level of precision and professionalism to luxury experiences ranging from private celebrations and golf tournaments to executive gatherings and specialty pairing events. As co-founder and chief operating officer of Champagne Problems, Shameka specializes in creating elevated experiences that blend fine beverages, culinary pairings, and sophisticated entertainment. A certified cigar sommelier tobacconist and trained champagne connoisseur, she designs customized pairings featuring cigars, spirits, wine, champagne, and gourmet delicacies that transform ordinary gatherings into memorable occasions. A holder of multiple project management credentials, including PMP and Scrum certifications, she remains committed to excellence, preparation, and personalized service. Guided by resilience, authenticity, and a belief in honoring one's unique strengths, Shameka continues to build a brand centered on luxury, connection, and unforgettable experiences.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Shameka
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to being resilient. When I received no's, when I had roadblocks, when I was let down by others that I thought were on my team, I had to continue to go to the vision that I have for myself. I believe that God is going to provide and align me with the resources I need to continue to move forward. It's about staying true to that vision even when things get difficult and trusting that the right opportunities and people will come into my life at the right time.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I ever received was from my grandmother, who always encouraged me to be myself - that I didn't have to be anyone else. Her words were 'honor thyself.' She taught me that being authentic and true to who I am is the most important thing I can do in my career and in life. That advice has stayed with me and guides how I show up in my work every day.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering the hospitality service industry to make sure they release anything that's hindering them - all negative energy, thoughts, and feelings they have towards themselves. That energy will be reflected in the work and the service they do for others, so it's critical to let it go. And they need to have confidence in themselves. Believing in yourself is essential in this industry because your energy and attitude directly impact the experience you create for your clients.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenge I'm experiencing right now is getting contracts, because a lot of people are saving their money due to the economic times. People are not spending as frivolously as they have in the past 10 to 12 months. Before, people would just spend money planning events without hesitation, but now they're not doing that. They're keeping a lot of stuff on a smaller scale. That's the reality I'm facing in the hospitality industry right now - clients are being much more conservative with their event budgets.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
My most important value is to make sure I listen to understand so that I can meet my client's needs. In doing so, I also ensure that I'm focused and that I take time to prepare to serve my clients. I don't like to rush and I don't like to throw things together. I like to take the time to do tastings, if necessary, before we have the event to make sure they're satisfied with the custom drinks that will be served. I want them to have a preview of the service they'll receive. I like to take my time preparing the day before their events so that nothing is thrown together or rushed, and so that the customers and all of their guests can see and feel the love that went into preparing for their event.
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