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Community Corner

Shannon O'Sullivan; Making Children's Dream Rooms Come True

A talented mural artist can transform any dream into a reality.

Talent is an understatement when describing the mural work that Shannon O’Sullivan (nee Weiss) creates for a child’s room.  O’Sullivan is no stranger to creativity as she got her start at her family’s business (Mandel’s Jewelry) in Ladue designing ads that were published in St. Louis Magazine

Her creative talent started well before she graduated from Saint Louis University with a degree in graphic arts, rather back in kindergarten when she won first place in an art contest.  O’Sullivan adds: “It wasn’t until high school (Incarnate Word Academy Class of 1997) that I really became passionate about art.”  Her passion for art won her an award when in high school for an abstract piece she created.

One day she offered to do murals for her niece and nephew in their new home (both of which are shown on her website as the bee theme and polka dot room).  Little did she know it would become a satisfying passion that would grow.  “While working on these projects, I re-discovered my love for painting; I would work all day and at the end of the day, I couldn’t wait to get over to my brother’s house and continue painting” O’Sullivan added. After that experience Shannon's Dream Rooms emerged offering dream rooms for children.

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What made O’Sullivan’s first professional project special was that: “this project special as it was actually an auction winner; I did not make any money myself however but it was a great opportunity to expand my portfolio and give back to my former high school” O’Sullivan said. 

There is not a project too big or too small ranging from a small monogram or sports logo to redoing an entire room. “I’ve done kids’ bedrooms, playrooms, nurseries, a school lobby, a master bedroom – I’ve even painted furniture for clients; but I would also love the opportunity to work on any room such as a teen’s room, a formal dining room or maybe even a ‘man-cave’ – I have tons of ideas!” O’Sullivan added. 

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 When it came time to decorate my son “Captain Jack’s” room we knew were going to do something pertaining to the nautical/pirate theme.  I purchased a boat bedroom set from Pottery Barn Kids, and contacted Shannon O’Sullivan about the mural.  She truly was amazing in terms of taking into account what my tastes were.  She came over for an initial consultation (after we exchanged emails regarding ideas I had for the room) and brought with several ideas she had found online.  I took two designs that I really like and she was able to make them one.  “The majority of the time my clients already have something in mind, or bedding picked out and then I listen to their ideas (whether it is bold or subtle is their discretion) and incorporate the design onto the walls” O’Sullivan said.

After interviewing other mural artists I can safely say that O’Sullivan is very competitive in pricing.  “I’ve done projects for just $200 to $1200 or more as well as projects on a per-hour basis" O'Sullivan said.  This also takes into account all materials, paint, etc.  She adds: “if you have a price in mind, within reason, chances are I'll paint something great for you whether it be furniture, frames, shelves, etc.”  O’Sullivan came fully prepared with all drop cloths, supplies and with the utmost professionalism. 

She easily adapted to the few changes I made, and put very special touches on our mural such as: Maddi’s island, Joe’s shore, Jack’s harbor, and Lake Cole, all named after respective members of our family. This made the whole family feel apart of the mural. 

 O’Sullivan adds:  “The most important thing to me is that the child can connect with the room as well as seeing the look on their faces when they see the completed project and the huge smiles make all my hard work worth it. “ Shannon O'Sullivan far exceeded our expectiations, and the only problem we have now is that our daughter wants a mural in her room.

Hard work, talent, and creativity made Captain Jack’s room truly special not only for him but our entire family.  If you are looking to put that special touch on a room, look no further as Shannon's Dream Rooms will truly make your room feel like a dream come true. 

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