My Austin with Shelby Sorrel
Dripping in color and infused with fun, Shelby Sorrel’s photography and tried and true recommendations has cemented her as an Austin go-to for longtime locals, newcomers, and travelers alike. It’s hard not to be drawn to her, what with her unique combination of beautiful photography, easy authenticity, and unique position as one of our city’s few “O.G.” Austinites.
So, we were thrilled when we had the opportunity to chat with Shelby on what that inspires both of respective small businesses: Austin. From her go-to coffee stops (she can’t pick just one) to how the city built her brand, keep reading to get to know Shelby’s Austin…
SHELBY’S AUSTIN
The Scout Guide Austin: Tell us about you, when you got to Austin and how the city has shaped your brand…
Shelby Sorrel: I have lived in Austin my entire life and am one of the few born and raised “Austinites” still here. This city is quite literally the reason my brand exists. Because of the incredible food scene, the people, the music, and the beauty of the city as a whole, I found my passion for sharing all this city has to offer with others.
The Scout Guide Austin: Speaking of your brand, where did “Shelby Sorrel” as a brand name begin? Can you share a bit about how you grew into marketing, influencer and branding for other local companies?
Shelby Sorrel: A handful of years into running my own account and watching it grow, I had a friend ask me for help in running their business account. The more that account thrived, I realized I really loved helping other business owners grow their presence online and that I wanted to do it more. As a result, I have managed some of Austin’s top culinary and retail institutions and have fostered record reach and engagement on all clients I have directly managed.
The Scout Guide Austin: What part of your career and personal brand is most gratifying to you?
Shelby Sorrel: I absolutely love helping people find the perfect spots to make memories with people they love and supporting small local businesses.
The Scout Guide Austin: What’s the best coffee in Austin?
Shelby Sorrel: Mañana for their iced oat milk lattes, Revival for the vibes, Hanks for the drive thru and Civil Goat for everything else.
The Scout Guide Austin: What’s your favorite taco in Austin? Yes, down to the name of the taco itself…
Shelby Sorrel: The carnitas taco from Texsueño, the tinga de pollo taco from Vaquero Taquero or the suadero tacos from Suerte. I can’t choose just one!
The Scout Guide Austin: Do you have go-to’s for celebrating with friends?
Shelby Sorrel: Geraldine’s for dinner and cocktails before a night out on Rainey street, Taquero Mucho for a fun girl’s night, steak frites night on Monday’s at Josephine House, or splurge on the best French food in Austin at Justine’s and walk across the street to Central Machine Works or Lustre Pearl East.
The Scout Guide Austin: You know you’re an Austinite when…?
Shelby Sorrel: You say “Town Lake” and not “Lady Bird Lake.”
The Scout Guide Austin: What’s it like to be a member of the creative community in Austin?
Shelby Sorrel: I can only speak from my experience, but I believe that the creatives here all do a great job of supporting one another’s endeavors. There is truly room for everyone to succeed here and I think while communities can always thrive to be more diverse and inclusive, I do feel like Austin is striving to do just that.
The Scout Guide Austin: What local brand do you think is doing a really great job? From branding, to sales, to community involvement.
Shelby Sorrel: Austin FC – they do an incredible job of being an ally to the LGBTQIA+ community, are constantly aiming to be as inclusive and diverse as possible, and are incredibly plugged into the Austin community. They kill it in every regard and we are lucky to have them in Austin!
Make sure to follow along with Shelby at @shelbysorrel, she’s never short on delicious Austin eats, favorite treats, and lots of fun experiences to keep you inspired, locally. And don’t forget to tell her Scout sent you!
