Meet Jasmine Bashaj- Designer and Founder of So Rad

Name: Jasmine Bashaj.

 Location: Vaughan, ON. Canada (Toronto)

Education: Cartooning Certificate (George Brown College),Web Design Certificate (George Brown College,Digital Media Arts Diploma – Honours (Seneca College)

Professional Background (brief, please) After graduation; Motion Capture Specialist @ Seneca College, Motion Graphics Designer @ Big Shot Media, Freelance Digital Illustrator @ Liquidlibrary.com, Digital Illustrator @ Clipart.com, Professor @ Seneca College (teaching: Motion Capture, motion Graphics, Photoshop, Illustrator, storyboarding, studio simulation course)

What you wanted to be when you grew up: A vet, a psychiatrist, and a fashion designer

                                           What you are: Digital Illustrator/Fashion Designer/Professor

Brief Summary of your Start Up

At So Rad, we make baby clothes. I design them based on pieces of items I loved for my kids and put them together to make innovative, functional baby, toddler and now kids wear. Kids grow super fast, and I like getting my money’s worth, just like everyone else. So I make my items grow with kids. Dress’ turn into tunics, outfits go from ¾ length to short sleeved without looking like floods. My 4 year old still wears his 18-24 month boot pants around the house – kids’s start to grow longer, not necessarily fatter, so they’re shorter, but the waist is AOK.

I love bamboo, it’s SO soft and stretchy and breathable, it’s such a great fabric. But, alone, it’s a very strange fabric. It can actually grow after going through your wash, so it’s best to have another fiber mixed with it to keep it in check. I chose Organic Cotton.

 Bamboo is also certified organic, in case you wanted to know

With all of these factors in mind, this is So Rad. I keep learning as I, and my kids grow. What clothing works, what THEY like, colors, patterns.

This year So Rad is introducing some really exciting new items;colors, patterns, gear.

Undies that are wedgie proof, thanks to my daughter for helping

 me realize there is a need for this:)  Boxer briefs for little guys, I always have a hard

first. Liiiiike us!time finding these for my son. A Maki swaddler wrap with legs so no need to unswaddle when you’re buckling them into the car seat. Stay tuned and keep in touch for updates, new designs, patterns and colours. Updates and photos are always uploaded to http://facebook.com/sorad.sorad

Where you are located: Vaughan, ON. Canada (Toronto)

Company Website? http://www.etsy.com/shop/SoRad

What inspired you? Art, Design and my Kiddos.

How long have you been in business? Since Sep 2009

How did you fund it? My husband is my financial investor/advisor

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? A fairy Godmother:) I take advice from almost everyone.

Connect with Shop So Rad:

http://shopsorad.com

http://facebook.com/sorad.sorad

http://twitter.com/shopsorad

http://shopsorad.tumblr.com/

http://pinterest.com/shopsorad

http://instagram.com/shopsorad

Current Business Challenge?

Keeping up with everything! I’m a 1 (wo)man ! I have 2 kids, 8 months pregnant (due early May) I do freelance Digital Illustration still and I teach.

What are you doing about it?

2 words – time management. There’s a time & place for everything. Pacing myself keeps everything running smoothly – not to say I’ve never derailed, or gotten super busy for a couple days, but everything evens out. My husband helps a lot too.

Favorite motivational quote:

**nothing comes to mind right off the top of my head

Family? Yes! Great husband, Daughter, 7 & son, 4. Expecting #3 early May 2013 – I needed a new model!;)

If so, how do you balance family and business? Again, Time management. Both kids are in school, so I have some days to work on my business. Also, when they go to bed, I sometimes have a couple hours to work, but then again, that tends to be husband time:)

Favorite book? I’m not a big reader. I do really like reading tutorials and trash mag’s:)

What do you do to relax? Not that this is very relaxing, but I love to cook and play games on the ipad.. and Sleep!

What do you want to change most about your world?

My personal world? Or the world we live in today?

The world we live in; I would like to take my big eco foot print down a notch

What are you most proud of?

Building my own brand!

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses?

Even if things start off slow, which they generally tend to, stick with it, listen to advice, take advice, be open to change.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)?

My Mac Book Pro and Tablet! (I love you guys!!:) yes, I am a tech geek)

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use?

Call me a hippie, but I like the whole birthstone idea. Topaz (turquoise, my fav colour) Red Ruby,  Emerald and Peridot…and diamonds just ‘cuz we can always use extra sparkles;)

Meet Julie Hasson Founder of A*Pour Toi, Gourmet Gift Company

Julie Hasson is our featured Startup Princess….

Hometown: Paris, France

Current Residence: Paris (France) and California

Education:

Stanford University

Innovation and Entrepreneurship Executive Program, Internet, 2012 – 2012

Cranfield University

Agro-Marketing International, 1995 – 1996

ISTOM

Agronomics Engineer and international development, Agronomie et Marketing International, 1991 – 1996

Professional Background:

I am an entrepreneur currently in management position, specialized in the digital sector and the mentoring of startups and am qualified in agronomics and engineering with18 years of experience and expertise. I’m the founder of a*pour toi, high end gift company www.apourtoi.com. The last 5 years I have been the Founder and General Manager of SME (a digital marketing and international consultancy firm and a jewelry ethical minded brand) and previous to that, spent 11 years in major corporations: as Marketing Director of Estee Lauder, Director of business development in L’Oreal and as Quality Manager of international services, then Purchasing Negotiator in the Carrefour group.

What you wanted to be when you grew up:

I wanted to be a biologist researcher who could discover a way to feed the hungry and I was passionate about elegant lifestyle and traveling all over the world.

What you are:

I am a Parisian who is a passionate entrepreneur who believes that pleasure, love, aesthetics, and a connection to nature are vital to living a fulfilled life. I am committed to making a contribution to society. I am a woman who wants to give an elegant moment of joy on a larger scale. I’m a dreamer and a doer who loves to live, love and share. My close friends are like my family. I am lucky enough to have a lot of relationships from my travels around the world.

Twitter? https://twitter.com/apour_toi

How long have you been in business? 16 years

How did you fund it? Self-funding

 Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? Yes, I have a few that I admire for their high expertise and knowledge in different areas.

Current Business Challenge?

Making people understand that the subscription gifting is a way to show that you consistently care. As it is very important to show care in your family, especially your elders, and a top of mind for the best clients in business.

What are you doing about it?

Highlighting it on our website and trying to explain through the public such as this wonderful opportunity to be interviewed by you to increase awareness of myself and a*pour toi.

Family?

Is the most important in my life and I also consider my very close friends as a part.

If so, how do you try to balance family and business?

Since I am not living in different countries as them we talk everyday and their support is what keeps me believing.

Favorite book? 100 Years of Solitude By: Gabriel Garcia Marquez

What do you do to relax? I work along the beach to enjoy the noise and beauty of the ocean. Living in California is magical as I look for dolphins and sea lions who always show up at one time or another.

What do you want to change most about your world?

Bringing an emotion of love that we all universally experience and understand with care and elegance.

What advice would you like to offer other Startup Princesses?

Build a surrounding team that is very positive and supportive and share with them

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)?

For a very special occasion I enjoy sending a beautiful card.

Stay tuned for the official launch of a*pour toi!

 

Meet Lisa Cash Hanson – The Mompreneur Mogul

Lisa and I are kindred spirits.  Serial entrepreneurs with our fingers in many projects.  When I first met Lisa I knew she was a famous blogger and business owner, singer and rising expert.  What I didn’t know is that she’s also an inventor!  Lisa took her experience as a first time mom and said, “How can we do this better?”  Then she won a grant from Huggies for her product SnuggWugg TM.  Congratulations, Lisa!

Name: Lisa Cash Hanson

Location: Las Vegas

Education: Eastern Michigan University Music And Business Major

Professional Background: I traveled the world performing as a singer for Fortune 500 companies, CEO’s and celebrities such as Chuck Schwab and Larry The Cable Guy, was featured on reality shows.

What you wanted to be when you grew up: A rock star.

What you are: I’m a wife, a first time mom, and a great friend, founder of Mompreneur Mogul a blog filled with inspiration, business, blogging and social media tips. I’m also the Author of Get Famous The Most Amazing Mom Bloggers Resource On The Planet and Creator of Blogs To Riches Club the exclusive business and blogging club where people come to learn how to make money online, and create a life they love.

Brief Summary of your Start Up: I was fortunate enough to be featured on Yahoo!, then wrote my first book and became an Amazon selling author. I had women and men both emailing and coming to me for advice. I knew I couldn’t keep up the pace there are only so many hours in the day and also be present for my family. I wanted a better way to serve both. Thus the Creation of Blogs To Riches Club. It’s a community filled with tips for blogging, business, and entrepreneur endeavors.  I also created my private coaching and a members only Inner Circle Club which is growing rapidly. This is where I’m able to host video trainings and work more closely with my clients. I love it. That way I am able to give attention to the people who need it most while not neglecting my family at the same time.

Company Website? www.mompreneurmogul.com  & www.blogstorichesclub.com  (which is by invitation only but I’ll provide the invite here: http://www.blogstorichesclub.com/?xgi=3tsqY1CXUz7gFx

What inspired you? When people would write and were frustrated or struggling. I knew that I would be able to encourage and lift them up. I had a pretty crappy dad (it happens to many of us) he loved to tell me what I couldn’t do. As a result I really don’t like dream crushers. So I’ve made it my quest to give wings to people’s dreams.

How long have you been in business? This site is under a year old but prior to that 20 years.

How did you fund it?  All of my money to start this project came from sales of my products, private coaching, being a consultant and advertising clients.

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? I do but I’m always open to more. There is wisdom in a multitude of counselors.

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups? Yes I launched my own on LinkedIn Called Women Entrepreneurs Who Change The World. I’m also a member of another group of women entrepreneurs on Facebook and I visit our local chamber.

Current Business Challenge? Not being consumed with this business.

What are you doing about it? Being aware I think is the first step towards changing so I’m becoming much more aware.

Favorite motivational quote:

“Try to discover

The road to success

And you’ll seek but never find,

But blaze your own path

And the road to success

Will trail right behind.”

—Robert Brault 

Tell us about your Family? [I have] an amazing husband named Chad and a 19 month old named Matilda Grace. I am blessed.

How do you balance family and business? I’m not the best at that yet but I’m working on getting better. I love to work. Many nights I’m up until 2am and I know that is not good

Favorite book? The Bible

What do you do to relax? What’s that? OK seriously I love to go out on the water. Or sit in a park and listen to the leaves in the wind that always gives me an amazing feeling of calmness.

What do you want to change most about your world? I want to be able to give more. Both financially and with my time to others.

What are you most proud of? My daughter. I’ve visited some of the most glamorous places in the world and seen the best stages this world offers. She is still the greatest thing I’ve ever done in my life.

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses? It’s great to have a big picture but sometimes that picture can look like a giant mural that’s painted on the Empire State Building- way too big. Take it one step at a time. Never say “I don’t know how. Instead say “I can figure this out”.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)? The internet. I’m not sure how people survived without it. And my iPhone. Suri is my entertainment when I need a laugh I ask her things like “What is wrong with my husband” just to hear her say “I cannot say Lisa.” Makes me laugh every time.

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use? I would like to find one that’s never been used before, I don’t like copying.

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your business?

My goal is to be able to give to any good cause that I desire. The other day I heard of a woman who had two young girls a baby on the way and her husband was hit and killed by a car. They were raising money to help with funeral costs. I didn’t know her but my heart was broken. I sent money immediately. Then I thought- “This is the purpose of owning your own business. To help people when they need it the most. Of course it’s for my family as well but I was so thankful my work allowed me to help a person in need.”

The Future of Blogging Interview Series – Featuring Kathy Dalton -@danishmama

Meet Tze Chun – Founder of Uprise Art

Happy to meet Tze on Twitter!  This week we’re celebrating connections with over 200,000 amazing people on twitter and Tze is no exception.  Her artwork is inspiring and her business story, just the same!  She also won Daily Candy’s Start Small Go Big contest for entrepreneurs.  Congrats, Tze!

Name: Tze Chun

Location: NYC

Education:

- Columbia University (2006), BA in American Studies (Art in America), BA in Dance

Magna Cum Laude

Phi Beta Kappa

Golden Key Honors Society

Professional Background:

In college, I double majored in Arts in America through the American Studies department and Dance, and also ran a small business for two years through Columbia’s entrepreneurial program. I had over 200 student employees and doubled profits during my time as manger. By the time I graduated, I knew I wanted to be an artist or entrepreneur, or some combination of the two.

I started a modern dance company in 2006 and have been working in the non-profit performing arts since. The company has performed at premiere dance venues throughout NYC, held residencies around the country, and toured internationally. For the past two years, we have been in residency at Tribeca Performing Arts Center, and the institutional support has made it possible for me to return to my other love – visual arts.

In 2011, I founded Uprise Art, an online contemporary art gallery and art collectors club representing over twenty artists.  With a unique invest-to-own model, Uprise Art helps companies build their corporate collections and helps new and seasoned art collectors find the perfect artwork for their homes.

What you wanted to be when you grew up:

A chef.

What you are:

An artist and entrepreneur.

Founder of Uprise Art

Artistic Director of Tze Chun Dance Company

Co-creator of MiniMash

Brief Summary of your Start Up:

Uprise Art is an art collectors club offering exclusive access to exceptional art. Members lease original contemporary artwork for $50/month with 100% applied towards the purchase price, so they are investing over time. Collecting art has never been easier.

Where you are located:

NYC

Company Website?:

www.upriseart.com

What inspired you?

- I have so many friends in NYC who are successful professionals, but don’t have time to take advantage of the city’s galleries and museums. They are also intimidated by the process of colleting art. I thought – there has to be an easier way to introduce them to talented artists.

How long have you been in business?

- We launched June 2011

How did you fund it?

- Bootstrapped

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)?

- Right after launching, I was very fortunate to be invited to present to a circle of mentors. These smart inspiring women (and one man!) gave me key advice that greatly shaped how I’ve approached the first year. The circle consisted of: Holly Lynch, Joanne Wilson, Deborah Jackson, Janet Hanson, Jennifer Hill, Kelly Hoey, Yao Huang, Natalia Oberti Noguera, Deborah Jackson, and Lee Graham.

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups?

- 85 Broads

- Creative Time Council

- Whitney Museum Contemporaries

- Columbia College Women

- Rising Leaders of Art Business

- IvyLife

What are you doing about it?

We represent twenty-one incredible contemporary artists and they are helping spread the word. We’re all reaching out to friends and family through social media as well.

Favorite motivational quote:

“DO MORE FASTER” – David Cohen and Brad Feld

What do you do to relax?

- Yoga and eating tacos, they kind of cancel each other out.

What do you want to change most about your world?

- I want to make challenging, thoughtful art more accessible.

What are you most proud of?

- When our collectors say that the artwork in their homes makes them happy everyday.

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses?

- It’s possible until proven otherwise.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)?

My Uprise team of five resourceful women.

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use?

Ones that are light. I like to be active, and am always on the go.

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your business?

Our memberships make great wedding presents! We had so many requests for gift memberships we set up a special pop-up shop for them.

For news on events and artists, follow Uprise Art at:

www.twitter.com/uprisenyc
www.facebook.com/upriseart

Upriseart.tumblr.com

pinterest.com/upriseart

Or me!
www.twitter.com/tzechengchun

Meet Gabrielle DeSantis-Cummings & Monica Hillman – Founders of Gigi Hill

A little bit of excitement came over me when I received a Gigi Hill laptop bag in the mail.  I feel more creative when I pull my computer out of something pretty! I used to carry around my laptop in a blah blue laptop bag, now I tote it around in style.  I knew I needed to learn more about Gabrielle and Monica!  Don’t you love it when simple things are taken to the next level?

Names: Gabrielle DeSantis-Cummings and Monica Hillman, founders of Gigi Hill

Company Website?  www.GigiHill.com

Education:

-          Gabrielle: I have my bachelor’s degree in speech communication from Cal State Long Beach.

-          Monica: I have a degree in management and human resources from Cal Poly Pomona.

Professional Background:

-          G: I’m a lifetime entrepreneur. Before starting Gigi Hill, I started and ran several successful businesses.

-          M: I come from a totally different path than Gabrielle, which is part of what makes us such a great team. Before Gigi Hill, I was in corporate America for more than 17 years working in finance and human resources.

What you wanted to be when you grew up:

-          G: An NFL cheerleader

-          M: It was always changing.  One day it was a race car driver and the next it was a hair dresser.

What you are:

-          G: I am a proud co-founder of Gigi Hill, lifetime entrepreneur, mother and designer of fabulous handbags. Between Monica and me, I’m the more of an eclectic and artsy style, entrepreneurial spirit, and visionary. Monica keeps me grounded!

-          M: I am also a proud co-founder of Gigi Hill, role-model, mother and lover of handbags. I balance Gabrielle’s personality with my classic and mainstream style, and a focus on strategic implementation and practical execution.

Brief Summary of your company:

G: Monica and I started the Gigi Hill collection of fabulous handbags in 2006 as a party-plan direct sales business and took it nationwide in 2009. Since the beginning, it has been about helping busy women bridge the gap between style and function by creating handbags they would love to carry whether going to the beach with their kids or out to dinner with their husbands. Gigi Hill bags are modern and chic yet feminine – all with standout fabrics and the highest quality construction. We have everything from wristlets and totes to laptop cases and weekenders. We also expanded to offer accessories like sunglasses and flip flops, men’s bags and a junior’s line.

Where are you located?

M: We both live in Yorba Linda, California, and the Gigi Hill home office is in Yorba Linda as well.

What inspired the company?

M: Gabrielle and I met at our daughters’ soccer games, where we quickly became friends. As we sat on the sidelines week after week, we talked a lot about the lack of worthwhile bags for busy moms. We started Gigi Hill both to fill that market gap by creating a bag that was fashionable and functional, and because we wanted careers that would allow us to spend more time with our families. After researching industry trends and direct sales models, we decided to take the leap of faith and start Gigi Hill.

Inspired by our own experiences and those of women we knew, we worked to design a bag that would help real women stay organized. That led us to the Gigi Hill Signature Pocket Design™ that ensures there is a pocket for everything so moms can stay organized on the go. It includes a key fob to keep your keys handy at all times, as well as pockets for your cell phone or other electronics, water bottles, sunglasses, pens and other essentials like your favorite lipstick. We also made several pockets out of a clear material to make it even easier to find what you need.

How long have you been in business?

G: We threw our first Gigi Hill party in July 2006 and spent the next two and a half years selling bags regionally and learning from consumer feedback. The research and attention to detail has definitely paid off. We launched Gigi Hill nationally in 2009 and grew an astounding 900 percent in that first year. Since then, the company has continued to double in size each year in both sales and the number of women joining our sales team.

How did you fund it?

M: We started Gigi Hill with a little personal savings and $23,000 in loans and investments from friends and family. Following years of hard work and building a successful foundation, Gigi Hill received a $3 million investment in 2011.

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or mentor)?

M: We have been fortunate to have many women in the Direct Sales industry who have mentored us and given us great advice in building this company.

Current Business Challenge? What are you doing about it?

G: Staying relevant and keeping agile with innovation today. We are constantly reading, researching and networking with other business owners.

Family?

-          G: I have my wonderful husband Chris, son Jake (16) and daughter Giavanna (14).

-          M: Phil is my supportive husband and we have a son Matt (17) and daughter Danielle (14).

How do you balance family and business?

G: Having balance in our lives is part of the reason we started Gigi Hill. We both wanted a career that would let us spend more time with our families, and that’s a great bonus for direct sales. We’re so happy to have that time with our family, and thrilled to offer the same opportunity to our stylists, who create their own schedules, work as many or as few hours as they want, and take full control of their own income potential and business growth.

What do you do to relax?

-          G: Spend time with my family… and watch mindless television!

-          M: Spend time with my family

What do you want to change most about your world?

M: We wish more women felt empowered. You really can take control of your life and your career, and have all of your dreams come true! Whatever you want in life, make it happen. If you don’t know what you want yet, that’s OK too. But work on figuring it out because nothing is going to happen if you don’t work for it.

And, if any women out there are looking for new opportunities, we encourage them to visit www.gigihill.com to learn more about career opportunities with our company. Gigi Hill is looking for new stylists to start their own businesses selling Gigi Hill handbags, totes and accessories in their hometowns. It’s a fun-filled job where you have full control of your own hours and earning potential. It’s also a great company to network and meet other women, both at your parties and through Gigi Hill stylist events. Being surrounded by fabulous women is such an impactful support system and so much fun!

What are you most proud of?

G: We are both so proud of Gigi Hill’s success over the years and how much the company continues to grow. We’re also so unbelievably proud of all our stylists – today, more than a 1,000 saleswomen – who have taken this company to such great heights. Each and every woman who has joined the Gigi Hill family, taken the business opportunity and made it their own – they are so fabulous and the reason for all of the company’s success.  Gigi Hill is a dream come true!

What advice would you like to offer other Startup Princesses?

M: We strongly encourage women everywhere to chase their dreams and make them a reality. Follow your passion and your intuition, then research, research, research. Then it’s time to get moving. As we always say, plan your work and work your plan.

Favorite Magic Wand?

G: That’s hard to narrow down! What mom can live without great handbags to carry her through the day, under-eye concealer, a smartphone…and the list goes on and on!

For our Gigi Hill handbags though, we love the magic of laminated cotton canvas. The fabric is so easy to clean – a necessity for busy moms – and looks fabulous. We have totes, handbags and travel bags made in laminated cotton canvas so you can keep them looking brand new, and many bags that are lined in the fabric, so it’s perfect for easily wiping away any spills inside.

If you could design a tiara that showcases Gigi Hill, what would you use?

M: Well Gigi Hill is known for being super fashionable and functional, so we’d have to make our tiara that way too. Of course it would be in bold colors. We’d find a way to include some amazing pockets so you can stash your lipstick and other necessities. And I know without a doubt that our stylists would want us to include a wristlet strap option! It’s something we’ve learned from feedback from both our stylists and consumers – women love a little strap so they can easily carry a bag, wallet or whatever from their wrist when juggling kids, work and everything else. Gigi Hill will have the first tiara with a fabulous wristlet strap!!

Meet Christina Patterson – Creator of I Do Cake Toppers

Are you networking on twitter? You should!  We meet the greatest people (from all over the world) online and Christina is no exception!   Fun girl and fun business!

Name: Christina Patterson

Location: Charlottetown

Education: Graphic Design Diploma from Fanshawe College (London, Ontario)

Professional Background:

I used to be in graphic design, but quickly realized that I didn’t want to spend my life making brochures and mocking up websites. It was at that point in 2004 that I started my Custom Cake Topper business.

What you wanted to be when you grew up: I always wanted to be an Artist.

What you are: I am the Owner/CEO of www.idocaketoppers.com,

Brief Summary of your Start Up:

Since 2004 I Do Cake Toppers has been making quality sculptures for clients world wide, including celebrity clients such as David Copperfield and Regis & Kelly. A hand made Custom Cake Topper is the ultimate keepsake after the last of the wedding cake is gone and the party is over. Custom Cake Toppers have made the perfect gift for many Weddings, Anniversaries, Birthdays, Retirement parties and any other event that is worth celebrating!

Where you are located: In beautiful Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island

Company Website? www.idocaketoppers.com

What inspired you?

I have always been an Artist and I was really drawn to the idea of making Art my full time job.

How long have you been in business?

I started the company officially in 2004

How did you fund it?

I was working three Jobs at the time and doing the occasional topper. As my topper business grew, I scaled back on the other work until it was 100% toppers. This method was the smartest option for me, even though it meant that I had a real tough couple of years workload wise.

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? I wish I did…but no.

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups?

I have on occasion tried to get involved with some local groups that are in the entrepreneur or crafting vein, but to be honest I am not much for organizations.

Current Business Challenge?

I think there are certainly a lot of challenges in this current economic environment and for me this means that I need to make every advertising/marketing dollar count.

What are you doing about it?

FB and Google Ad words have really good analytics systems so that I can really see my return on investment. If I can see the effect of my marketing dollars in a quantifiable way then its much easier to justify the cost.

Favorite motivational quote:

Let the beauty of what you love be what you do. – Rumi

Family?

One Artist Husband and one needy Shi-Tzu

If so, how do you balance family and business?

Finding a balance is certainly a work in progress. I try to make time every day to meditate, spend time with my Husband and work on personal projects. The challenge comes when the line between what’s work and what’s fun gets blurry.

Favorite book?

I am currently reading Four Hour Work week by Timothy Ferriss. It’s a really great book with a lot of helpful suggestions on how to work smarter not harder.

What do you want to change most about your world?

I wish that people would be more open and accepting and pursue their passions more.

What are you most proud of?

The fact that I have been able to make Art my career and creating an army of satisfied customers since 2004

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses?

1. Know your value proposition: Are you the Prada of your industry or the Walmart. This becomes very import when positioning your product, identifying your competition and building a successful brand.

2. Get to Know your customer: Talk and interact with them, learn all about them , this can help uncover new product ideas and services that you hadn’t even thought of before. Many business’ fall into the trap of assuming they know their customer and then acting on those assumptions…big mistake.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)?

Social Media is definitely my favourite tool.

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use?

Lots and lots of red rubies

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your business?

I just want say to all the other Start Up Princesses out there. Believe in yourself and your business, don’t listen the army of nay sayers and always make sure that your business is travelling in the direction that you want it to! I think it is great to a have blogs like this that promote women in business and feel that as successful women, the knowledge that we share empowers us all.

Meet Tessa Farnsworth – Founder of Damsels in Success

It’s fun to find fellow friends supporting women business owners.  I love the name: Damsels In Success!  Enjoy meeting, Tessa.  Another creative, spunky, inspiring women entrepreneur!

Name: Tessa Farnsworth

Location: Utah

Education: Bachelors degree in Journalism from Brigham Young University

Professional Background:

I worked with The Daily Universe as a reporter and editor for several years in college, went on to work in Washington D.C. as a summer associate at Ashoka on their News and Knowledge team, worked part-time with different SEO and online marketing agencies.

What you wanted to be when you grew up:

A marine biologist. I got to swim with dolphins when I was 8 and fell in love. After realizing how many science classes that would take in college, I had to move on from that dream.

What you are:

I am the editor for damselsinsuccess.com, a site for and about women in business.

Brief Summary of your Start Up:

I’ve always been passionate in women in business, so when the opportunity to revive an old website domain came up, I jumped on the chance.

Company Website?

Damselsinsuccess.com

What inspired you?

Women everywhere. After working with inspiring women and being surrounded by so many my whole life I realized that there was a lack of information about women in business and wanted to create a space to share news and stories, while having others join the conversation as well.

How long have you been in business?

About 6 months.

How did you fund it?

We run ads and are looking into more ways to find funding. We are still young and looking to grow.

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)?

My mother has always been a huge mentor to me. Along with several women from my hometown who managed to balance family and work life in a way that I find incredible.

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups?

 Currently we are looking to join some that fit our profile.

Current Business Challenge?

Finding funding. It’s always a challenge when you first start a business to get others on board and people to back you up.

What are you doing about it?

Gaining a broader audience and building our credibility

Favorite motivational quote:

“We have to continually be jumping off cliffs and developing our wings on the way down.”
—Vonnegut

Family?

I’m engaged and getting married in a few weeks!

If so, how do you balance family and business?

It’s been a crazy few months with the business and planning a wedding, but I make sure to set aside time after work where I am not at my computer and I can focus on having fun with my fiancé.

Favorite book?

I’m a huge fan of the Harry Potter series.

What do you do to relax?

I like to be outside. Whether it’s taking a drive or going on a picnic it’s relaxing to get away from my electronics for a while and just be.

What do you want to change most about your world?

If there was more time in a day I would be on top of the world. Oh, and traffic. I hate traffic.

What are you most proud of?

That I’ve been able to grow the website from the ground up. It’s a scary thing to try and do and I’m proud that I’m moving forward with it.

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses?

Don’t be afraid to try new things and go after what you’ve always wanted to do. There’s no reason to sit around and wait.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)?

Google analytics are my best friend right now. I check them every morning to help me track and manage my site. If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use? Sapphire is my birthstone and I’ve always been partial to it. Plus, it looks good alongside diamonds

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your
business?
I love to travel and I love meeting inspirational women all across the globe. It’s humbling and amazing to see the impact we can have.

 

Meet Fairy Godmother Desiree Scales – Founder of Bella Web Design & @DesireeScales

The Fairy Godmother program is one of my favorite parts of Startup Princess.  We get to collaborate with some of the brightest women in business!  Desiree is no exception.  When she applied I was thrilled to see all the things she’s done and to hear her expertise.  I loved her even more when I got to meet her for our Fairy Godmother retreat!  She is super strong in website design and online marketing!  Get to know Desiree! – Michelle

Name: Desiree Scales

Location: Atlanta, GA

Education: BA Public Relations Journalism

Desiree’s Bio: Desiree Scales brings over 15 years of expertise in online marketing to customer projects at her award-winning company, Bella Web Design, Inc. With a background as a web designer for a major U.S. corporation, Delta Air Lines, Desiree delivers sound advice and outstanding solutions for her business customers. Her expertise and experience has evolved into a passion to educate people about online marketing and technologies that foster success. She has been a featured speaker at companies, conferences and seminars speaking on topics about web design, social media, online marketing and protecting teens on the Internet. Desiree also hosts The Bella Buzz, a weekly podcast dedicated to online marketing topics, tools and tips for business owners. Her podcast  is popular among business owners around the world. Her company garnered a prestigious Webby Award Honor in 2011. Desiree has provided consulting for many companies including Microsoft, Delta Air Lines, Northside Radiology, Brand Mortgage and Marriott among others.

What you wanted to be when you grew up: Broadway Actress

What you are: CEO of my own company (close enough)

Brief Summary of your Start Up: Web Design/Online Marketing

Where you are located: Atlanta, GA

Company Website? http://www.bellawebdesign.com

What inspired you? My husband, mom and friends.

How long have you been in business? 14 years

How did you fund it? Self

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? Yes, Tricia Molloy

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups? Chamber of Commerce

Current Business Challenge? Handling rapid growth.

What are you doing about it? Finding new designers and a sales person.

Favorite motivational quote: “If it’s meant to be, it’s up to me.”

Family? Yes, 2 girls.

How do you balance family and business? Working from home makes it much easier. Having a partner in the business helps.

Favorite book? Dr. Seuss “Oh the Places You’ll Go”

What do you do to relax? Work with yarn.

What do you want to change most about your world? Nothing.

What are you most proud of? My kids.

What advice would you like to offer other StartUp Princesses? Dance to your own song.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)? My mom.

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use? Diamonds!

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your business? I studied to be an Opera singer in college on a full-ride scholarship.

Meet Maxine Gardner – Founder of Artful Vision

I loved learning about Maxine!  And I hope she doesn’t mind me saying, but one thing I love about Maxine’s story is that she is making big splashes in business and starting new businesses and she’s not letting her age stop her!  I hear too many women ready to do their own thing, but they say, “I can’t do that, I’m too old!”  You’re never to old to achieve your dreams!  Thanks, Maxine!

Name: Maxine Gardner

Location:  Metro Detroit

Education: Non-Profit Administration & Art

Professional Background: Over the past 13 years I’ve been an artist, a mosaic instructor, an art and real estate photographer. Prior to that I worked in non-profit administration.

What you wanted to be when you grew up: veterinarian, actress, gypsy and a mom

What you are: mom, visionary, artist, entrepreneur

Brief Summary of your Start Up: Artful Vision is the #1 online gallery of American made gifts providing fundraising support for American non-profits organizations.

American artists, crafters, musicians and authors offer creative, quality gifts for sale in our juried gallery. Upon checkout customers choose a participating non-profit to receive a 20% donation from the artist.

At a grass roots level it supports the American economy in a way that buying gifts from big box stores never can; provides an outlet for artists to give back, and the  customer makes a difference – one purchase at a time.

You Shop – We Ship, and a donation is made!

Where you are located: Online

Company Website?  www.artfulvision.com

What inspired you? Combining my passion for creative expression with my purpose of making a difference.

How many times have you bought something you didn’t want or need to support a worthy cause, all the while complaining “why can’t someone come up with a better idea”.

I did by creating adding a fundraising component to my online gallery of art photography – and then, gas prices skyrocketed. All my artist friends traveling to art fairs, were struggling with the rising costs of gas, and decreased turnout at shows which meant fewer sales.

It got me thinking, that if I had a good idea for me, what would it look like if I were to expand my online gallery with more American artists, crafters, musicians and authors who shared my vision of making a difference with the sale of their work.

Starting with the premise that in any economy we buy gifts, and support worthy causes, there is a huge impact if we purchase gifts that are American made; and even more of an impact if every purchase generates a 20% donation to a participating non-profit of the customer’s choice.

How long have you been in business?  Since August 2010

How did you fund it? Self-funded

Do you have a Fairy Godmother (or Mentor)? Herb Drayton of Techtown, Pat Salo of the Small Business Technology & Development Center, and an advisory board of successful business women.

Do you belong to any Business Organization or Networking Groups? TechTown – a business incubator in Detroit; Team Management & Leadership Program at Landmark Education; and various local & online networking groups for artists and/or women.

Current Business Challenge? Developing the systems to support the growth of the business, along with hiring individuals to handle more of the day to day administrative work.

What are you doing about it?  Odesk has been great tool for finding the American consultants and VA’s to work with on an as needed basis.

Favorite motivational quote: At first dreams seem impossible, then improbable, then inevitable – Christopher Reeve

Family? Two sons – Adam (30) and Matt (27).

If so, how do you balance family and business? I feel blessed to have sons that are so supportive of my passion; and, that Adam handles all the tech support for Artful Vision from his home in Hawaii.

Favorite book?  Start Where You Are by Chris Gardner (the author of The Pursuit of Happiness)

What do you do to relax? Watch movies, hang with friends, travel & relax by the water.

What do you want to change most about your world? I’d love to be able to take power naps!

What are you most proud of? My sons. My mom passed when I was a teenager, so I always wanted to be the mom I didn’t have. Unfortunately, my boys experienced the same tragic loss when their dad died when they were 9 & 12.

What advice would you like to offer other Start Up Princesses? Successful entrepreneurs build teams around them; so ask for support and advice to grow into your greatness.

Favorite Magic Wand (tool/resource)? My imagination and Google for everything else.

If you could design a tiara, what precious stones would you use? Turquoise & diamonds. 

Did I leave something out you would like me to know about yourself or your business?

If you belong to a worthy cause that would benefit from raising additional funds in a creative way, please forward this link – http://www.artfulvision.com/Fundraising.html

Know busy women who would love the benefits of shopping for creative gifts that make a difference, please forward this link – http://www.artfulvision.com

If you are, or know artists, crafters, musicians or authors that want to make a difference selling their work, please forward this link – http://www.artfulvision.com/Submission_Guidelines.html

Please follow us: www.facebook.com/ArtfulVision

twitter.com/artfulvision

http://pinterest.com/artfulvision

http://artofmakingadifference.com

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