Meet Tawana “Tee” Tolbert

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tawana “Tee” Tolbert and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tawana “Tee”, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
When I first ventured into my own business, it wasn’t a neatly planned decision—it grew from the unexpected. After parting ways with a colleague in a small PR boutique I co-owned, I had two clients who were still interested in working with me. That led me to take on freelance projects, although at that time, I was still figuring out my niche and refining the services I wanted to offer. Without a clear direction, I initially took a “textbook” approach to PR, relying on campaign models from case studies and guides I remembered from graduate school.

About a year in, I realized I needed to put my own practices into place to bring some structure to my business. Before even deciding on a brand name, I had to define my strengths and my target clients. By 2012-2013, I noticed I was becoming known as a hip hop publicist, which was a turning point in finding my niche. People started seeking me out, particularly for my press releases, which became my most requested service. Writing has always been second nature to me, so this part of the business felt natural and solidified press releases as a cornerstone of my brand.

Since then, I’ve evolved and broadened my client base beyond hip hop to include nonprofits and, more recently, food and beverage brands, especially post-pandemic. Looking back, I see how the process was less about having a clear plan from the start and more about embracing the journey, adapting, and finding focus as I went along. Now, I have a defined direction and brand, but it took those early, unscripted steps to get here.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My experience in the performing arts and communications helped me create a unique PR style, and over time, “Tawana Tee” became a brand that stands out for its quality and personal touch. My business is built on a foundation of integrity, creativity, and professionalism. Yes, it is a pretty basic approach, but it’s been a rewarding journey ever since.

What makes my business different is my focus on honest communication and delivering services that fit each client’s specific needs. PR is constantly changing, especially with social media’s impact, and sometimes I wonder if the traditional skills I offer still hold the same value. Balancing this business alongside a career in the utility sector and running a nonprofit has made it challenging to stay on top of every trend, but I prioritize quality over quantity. I’m upfront with clients about the services I can provide and how those services can genuinely impact their brand.

One thing I’m especially proud of is my commitment to collaborating with other minority-owned businesses. If a client needs something outside my specialty, I bring in trusted partners who add value to the project. This approach keeps my clients coming back, knowing they’ll get the best possible results.

Ultimately, “Tawana Tee” isn’t just about PR; it’s about giving clients an authentic, effective way to connect with their audience, and that’s something I’m excited to keep building on.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
The city would be Charleston, SC—home.

The trip would have to be timed for the fourth Wednesday in April so we can kick things off at Wu Wednesdays. Hosted by The Dropping Pin (shoutout to my client!). This is a monthly event with great food, drinks, networking, and a DJ set with classic and local hip hop.

Thursday: We’ll start early with breakfast at The Junction in Park Circle—I always get the French toast, it’s amazing! Afterward, it’s a beach day at Isle of Palms, followed by lunch at Shem Creek. There are tons of great spots to choose from. Fast forward to the evening (because it will be hot) we’ll head to Beautiful South for South Asian cuisine and wrap up the night with cocktails at Last Saint with my friends!

Friday-Sunday: The Black Food Truck Festival kicks off in Ladson, just outside of Charleston, and it’s one of the biggest Black-owned food events in the area. Food trucks bring all kinds of soul and flavors, plus there’s music and entertainment all weekend. We’ll hit the opening party Friday, enjoy the food and music on Saturday.

We will end the week, however, at Neo Soul Sundays at the Coan—here will be even more good vibes to set the tone for a new week and amazing time in Charleston.

Oh, and our drink of choice for the week? Definitely Don Luchi D.O.C.G Prosecco-locally and minority owned and clients of “Tawana Tee.”

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I owe so much of my success to my family. In the beginning, it took a while for my parents to understand my direction in the creative industry, but once they saw my name and brand associated with various events and local media, they got it. I’m grateful for their support through it all.

The start of my career, though, really traces back to my first clients, Courtnay Nicole Coan (known as Courtnay the Poet), Matt Monday, and SALIS. They gave me the green light to help build their brands, which, in turn, allowed me to establish my own. That trust and collaboration were pivotal in shaping my path.

In recent years, especially as I’ve expanded into the food and beverage space, David White Jr. (of The Dropping Pin) has been a key connection and support. Beyond my clients, I also have an incredible network of friends, line sisters (yes, I am proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.), and mentors who have kept me motivated and grounded throughout this journey. Their encouragement and belief in me have been invaluable.

Website: www.tawanatee.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tawanatee_pr?igsh=djFqazE1Njc2bnE=

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tawanatee

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1GbZgt1GcA/?mibextid=LQQJ4d