Elizabeth Johnson describes herself as a “jack-of-all-trades,” when it comes to work. She does sound busy so we were fortunate to get her to sit down long enough to answer some questions.

We asked her where she grew up and how she ended up in Arkansas?
“I have lived just about everywhere. It's a long story. I come from a big military family. We came here after my father's cancer surgeries. We lived a long while in Japan and California. I guess they moved us here so we could slow down a bit and enjoy life. I settled with my family outside Jacksonville.
When asked about her career, Elizabeth described it for us.

“It's funny really. I consider myself a ‘jack-of-all-trades'. I own four businesses. One is wedding planning. I love that job the most. It's a lot of work but it is even more fun. I also am a website developer and I own a domain equity firm. The last one is the most recent. My partner and I are starting a wedding magazine for Arkansas.”

Talk about some of the work you have done for the GLBT community.
“I try to be involved as much as I can. We are currently working on a Web site for the Center of Artistic Revolution. We have also done Web sites for the Diamond State Rodeo Association and a few other gay and lesbian organizations free of charge. We also give heavy discounts to the gay community for logo development and Web sites. I have done free commitment ceremonies for gay couples as well.

“Another thing that I am really proud of is ArkansasLesbians.com. I wanted to have a site that lesbians could come together and share information. Once it is complete there will be special sections for gay parents. Sometimes, as a mother, I feel very isolated. I wanted to have a place where people can come and see that they are not alone.”

What are your thoughts on coming out, advice to others, etc.?
“The best policy in life is honesty. It can be hard to tell your family. At first they generally react badly. Just keep in mind that time heals almost anything.”

What do you see in the near future and long-range for gay rights/equality?
“I like to think some day I can marry my partner. Sadly, I'm not sure that is the near future. I mostly hope that in the near future people will be more accepting. If each generation teaches their children to be tolerant of the differences in people, who knows what will happen.”

Profiles in Pride Questions:

Date and place of birth? August 4, 1981, Phoenix, AZ

What is your favorite food? Cheesecake

What food will you not eat? Octopus.

What is the best job you've ever had? Wedding Planner.

What is your dream job? Wedding Planner. I have my dream job.

If you didn't have to work, what would you do with all of your time? Scrapbook all my daughter's pictures and play pool with my partner.

Who has had the greatest influence on your life? My family.

What is your favorite word? Aurora. My daughter's name.

Least favorite word? Actually. It's usually followed by a condescending attitude.

Favorite curse word? The F word.

What turns you on? A woman with pretty lips whispering in my ear.

What turns you off? Hairy women.

What word would others use to describe you? Honest.

What word sums you up? Loud.