with Nikki Nickerson, Entrepreneur
Nikki Nickerson is a force to be reckoned with when it comes to business. The successful entrepreneur has blazed paths for herself in the tech, travel and restaurant biz, and real estate sales and investing. Her energy, passion and enthusiasm are palpable when you are in her presence, and I am constantly in awe of her ability to multi-task and meticulously handle all of the endeavors she has on her plate at any given time. She is truly an inspiration.
Currently? She owns the popular Cowgirl Kitchen Restaurant located in the prime commercial district in downtown Rosemary Beach on Scenic Hwy 30A, an established real estate business in the luxury South Walton real estate market and a budding travel business with a startup company already making waves in the industry. Oh, and I did I mention she also is involved in several philanthropic causes, too? Seriously - amazing.
I caught up with Nikki for this week's SouthWaltonScene.com Q&A. Enjoy!
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How long have you lived in South Walton?
I moved to the beautiful beaches of South Walton shortly after 9/11. After 15 years on the corporate track in Atlanta I decided it was time to live seaside. I now reside in Rosemary Beach which is a five minute bike ride to my real estate office and a four minute walk to the restaurant!! My Atlanta friends either own homes here or visit frequently so the transition has been easy. Everyone always asks me what do you do here, isn't it slow and I always say, "that's the point!" I am so fortunate to not have to fight the traffic and crime anymore, life is very good.
You already live at the beach - where do you vacation?
On the vacation front, I am a bit spoiled. I love to travel to quaint little areas much like Scenic 30A. This year I spent January in Vail skiing and snowshoeing, in February I spent a week in Playa Langosta Costa Rica. I always try to take one trip to the wine country each year. It is important for me to get away and still visit other areas. I always compare real estate offerings and check out the local fare but in the end, it is always fantastic to come back home.
What book(s) is on your nightstand?
Right now Dara Torres' new book, Age is Just a Number. I loved watching her in the Olympics and I have been keeping tabs with her on Facebook. To me there is nothing more exciting than re-inventing yourself and seeing what else you can possibly do with your life.
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If you were to come back as someone else, who would you be?
I would definitely come back as my dog Gracie. She really has a great life. Daily walks to the beach, a never ending supply of fresh water and food, lots of love and friends.
What is your single greatest achievement so far?
Having the abitlity and lifestyle to spend time with my father before he passed away. Working for myself enabled me to see him frequently and help make some of his last days fond memories for the rest of my life and hopefully his as well. I was his biggest fan, he taught me so much about business and life.
What is your favorite restaurant in South Walton?
Well, I am a little bias but I would have to say Cowgirl Kitchen. It is such a fun neighborhood place and it is always easy on my wallet.
What 2 things can you not live without?
My health and happiness.
What would you do if you won $1 million?
I wouldn't really change anything about the way I am living now. I think I would use a significant portion of the winnings to fund a new non-profit I am starting "Finances for Life" which will help people living with terminal diseases pay their bills. I would probably take an exotic vacation to New Zealand and Australia, I have always wanted to visit the wineries there. Gracie might get a new Vespa with a sidecar as a token of my appreciation.
If you could change one thing about yourself, it would be...
Patience and Grace. I am at such high throttle sometimes it is a bit too much.
You are granted one wish. What is it?
A cure for cancer.
The best thing about South Walton is....
The beaches.
What is the greatest love in your life?
My family and friends
What are the most important qualities in a friend?
Loyalty, authenticity, integrity.
Would you say happiness is found or made?
Made... each and every day.
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