Today we’d like to introduce you to Allie Williamson.
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My story begins with my Grandma Hattie. While all the other kids were outside playing, I was inside helping her scrub cigarette smoke off the walls. Those early days are where my love for cleaning really took root.
I went off to college, earned my degree in hospitality, and took a sales job after graduation, but I was still cleaning homes and cooking meals on the side because that’s where my heart truly was. Eventually, I got fired for “not meeting sales goals,” probably because half the time I was sneaking off to clean instead of selling!
So, I bet on myself. I started Southern Domestic Diva right out of my garage and rented out my basement as an Airbnb to help keep things afloat. In just three years, we 10x’d the business and expanded into two locations: right here in Nashville and in my hometown in South Mississippi. Today, we’re a $4 million company with 65 incredible Divas and Divos on the team, and we even own two vacation rentals in Mississippi!
It’s been quite the journey, but every twist and turn led me exactly where I was meant to be.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
I’m grateful for every bump. One of my biggest challenges has definitely been getting into the wrong partnerships. When you’re building a business from the ground up, you want to trust people, and sometimes that trust lands in the wrong hands. I’ve had partnerships that drained my energy, didn’t align with my values, or simply weren’t the right fit for the Divas.
Each misstep taught me something important: protect your vision, choose your people wisely, and never settle for relationships that don’t lift you higher. Those lessons made me a stronger leader and helped shape the company we are today.
We’ve been impressed with Southern Domestic Diva, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Southern Domestic Diva is a professional cleaning company specializing in residential, commercial, construction, and vacation rental cleanings — and we’re known for pairing high-quality service with true Southern hospitality. Our clients don’t just get a clean space; they get peace of mind and that signature Diva sparkle.
What really sets us apart is our team and our branding. We have 65 incredible divas and divos trained the “Diva way,” and you can always spot us by our famous red cars, red cleaning supplies, and of course — our signature pecan pies we gift to clients and partners.
Brand-wise, I’m most proud of the community and consistency we’ve built. When you choose Southern Domestic Diva, you’re choosing intention, reliability, and a whole lot of heart.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Nashville has so many incredible networking communities, and my biggest piece of advice is to go where your heart leads you. If you walk into a networking group and it doesn’t feel like a good fit, that’s totally okay! Don’t force it; there are plenty of groups out there, and you’ll find the one that feels like home.
Some of the communities that have been really impactful in my journey are BrainTrust, CRE615, and both the Nashville and Williamson County Chambers of Commerce. Each one has brought amazing people into my life who have poured into me in different ways.
Mentorship is huge, but it can come with a big price tag. Don’t overlook the power of someone already in your circle; someone who can challenge you, push you, and help you grow. Those organic relationships have been some of the most meaningful for me.
I truly love this Nashville community, and I’m so thankful for the chance to connect with so many business professionals who show up for each other and cheer one another on.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://southerndomesticdiva.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southerndomesticdiva/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allie-williamson-1a559b42/
