Girls Guide to Cbus: Carly Johnson

Meet Carly Johnson - Clintonville resident, Realtor, and the boss babe behind Happy Tails Columbus and ​Happy Trail Adventures

Carly Johnson, REALTOR® & Owner of Happy Tails Columbus and Happy Trail Adventures

I have always been passionate about connecting with people, and that has always reflected in my work. I take time to understand each and every client to ensure they are receiving a personalized and thoughtful experience. Even though my businesses are different in nature, their foundation is the same - offering valuable skills with care and sincerity.​

I’ve always had the entrepreneurial spirit! As a child I loved pretending that I owned my own businesses.  Whether it was a small restaurant where I served food from our pantry or playing office with my sisters, I was constantly creating my own imaginary empires.
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As I grew up, I realized that my career goals didn't fit a traditional mold and fortunately my family has always
​been extremely supportive of my endeavors.  This allowed me the freedom to create a new path for myself and grow through trial and error.    

As I grew up, I realized that my career goals didn't fit a traditional mold and fortunately my family has always been extremely supportive of my endeavors.  This allowed me the freedom to create a new path for myself and grow through trial and error.    
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​​This self-determination ultimately led me to start long-distance backpacking. With zero experience, I set out to hike 2600 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail. Against the 20% completion odds and despite my lack of experience, I finished! The journey allowed me to be the most in charge of myself, taught me perseverance, and enlightened how much drive I have to connect with people from all walks of life.

After the hike, I evaluated the people in my life and the goals I wanted to reach.  Happy Trails was started within a few years of my return and then I received my real estate license shortly after. As the owner of multiple businesses, it is hard to find several months off at a time but I would love to do another long distance hike as the urge to get outside will always be with me:)

Perfect Saturday in Columbus:
Owning 3 businesses keeps me extremely busy, but I try to take Saturday away from my computer and meetings.  If the weather permits, I’ll take a walk through Clintonville and browse all the cool hidden gems and local shops. Saturday night is usually a quiet evening in, but I can easily be persuaded to go out in the Short North or grab dinner with a friend. 

Date Night:
I am currently single, but I love to see different parts of Columbus. The Audubon, taking a walk, drinks at new bars... Anything new to me is the best way to win my heart and keep me on my toes.

Place to Shop:
Marigold in Clintonville…BEST prices and I love supporting a local, female owned business! I also love to shop at KOKO 

Place to Eat:
Beechwold Diner, or Chef-O-Nette in Upper Arlington for the best chocolate milkshakes and French fries around! ​

Favorite places to hike/ground myself:
Zaleski is so close and I know the whole route like the back of my hand. I try to escape to the the Appalachian Trail when I can as well!