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Women Worldwide

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Here at House of Coco, we’re all about women empowering other women, and this is exactly what Tricia Scott and The Female CEO are all about. With a background in business coaching, Tricia has created a community of women all over the world, whose only goal is to help female entrepreneurs further their businesses.

Through mentoring, coffee break catch-ups, and informative blog articles at her very own CEO Magazine, Tricia Scott and The Female CEO are changing the world by lifting up one world changing woman at a time. In this latest #WomenWorldwide interview, we caught up with Tricia Scott and talked about what drives her passions, personal mantras, and the importance of having a kick-ass support system. Because with Tricia Scott and The Female CEO, ‘you are never alone’.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What inspired you to start The Female CEO?

Looking back now, working towards the inclusion, success, and empowerment of others is always something I’ve held close to my core. I’ve always held a deep rooted (somewhat rebellious) nature at heart. Growing up, I’ve always gravitated to people who were different. As soon as I was able, I left my school days behind and was quickly and easily swept into the corporate world, climbing every ladder of every job I was ever presented with.

I was never happy to stand still, and was always looking for a higher position, higher learning and more to do. My free time was spent with people who preferred to stay outside of the norm, with different ideas and inspirations. This is probably where my love of entrepreneurship came from, I think entrepreneurs are creative people who view the world a little bit differently. My mantra was always (and still is), to never judge a book by its cover. Some of the most beautiful and interesting souls I’ve ever had the pleasure of spending time with, were people I met through following this mantra.

Over the years and like so many of the women I speak to today, I’ve faced my own personal hurdles, family tragedy, divorce, and debt to name just a few. Eventually I paused and looked around I realised that I really wasn’t alone. Women everywhere were stalled, scared, and hiding under layer upon layer of life experiences. I started to work with small groups of women at first, creating topics to start or further their businesses. Confidence, support, empowerment, focus and passion became the foundation of our work. This eventually led to bigger groups, large scale speaking engagements, interviews, videos and eventually the birth of The Female CEO & CEO digital magazine.

What is The Female CEO all about and how does it help aspiring GirlBosses the world over?

I have worked with women from all walks of life both as the Female CEO and in my previous role as a business coach and mentor. Watching women come together and work through their struggles, as well as celebrating their wins. Knowing that working as a solo-preneur can be lonely, these groups and support systems have become a lifeline to many. The mantra? ‘You are never alone here’

The Female CEO and CEO magazine aim to offer support and guidance to entrepreneurs through various methods. This includes specific training, a community-based Facebook page, In The Spotlight Interviews, and coffee break catch ups with inspirational people from across the world. We also offer printables, blogs, support, and ideas and it’s open to anyone. You don’t have to have your own business to be part of it, far from it in fact. I’m a firm believer that incredible things happen when women come together in solidarity and that’s what this business is all about – community driven empowerment and world-changing women.

As a CEO yourself, how important is having a strong support network to achieving your goals?

I believe that a strong support network is vital to achieving pretty much anything. It’s one of the reasons when I created The Female CEO I handpicked a team of fabulous Guest Editors, all with different skill-sets to work alongside and share their collective knowledge with our readers. I am the first to put my hand in the air and say that I don’t know everything. That is the amazing thing about a community like ours. Everyone is unique and at different stages of their journey therefore we all have so much to offer to each other!

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a female CEO?

Oh my goodness, there have been so many! If I had to choose just one I’d say overcoming the ‘disease to please’. I spent so many hours listening to everyone else’s opinions but my own about how I should set up and run my business. I was trying to please everyone else rather than tuning into my own gut feeling and going with it. Looking back it was a tool for procrastination too. The longer I listened, the less I put myself out there for fear of judgement. I don’t do that anymore!

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

Just do it. Don’t wait for the time to be just right, trust me you’ll never get there. Seek out communities of people with similar interests, ask for help (people really love to help) and be brave. It’s not impossible to set up on a minimum budget either, there are so many free resources out there from building your own website (I created The Female CEO from scratch with literally zero experience or knowledge) to taking payments and protecting the privacy of your customers, it all just takes a little bit of research. Finally, believe in yourself and your capabilities.

I wish you all of the success in the world.

WWW.THEFEMALECEO.COM

Someone’s wedding day, is probably the most important day in most peoples’ lives. It is an unforgettable experience that marks the beginning of a new story, shared with the couple’s closest family and friends. To be a part of a wedding is truly a special experience, but to plan the magic of a wedding, is a whole different story.

Hannah Terziu has built her business around capturing unforgettable wedding moments. Not to mention, capturing them amidst the stunning backdrops of the Amalfi Coast. A love for events and wedding planning led her to leave London and jump headfirst into her passion. Love Story Events is a testament to her talent and willpower as both a wedding planner, and an entrepreneur. They say a picture is worth a thousand words, and if these photos say anything, it’s that Hannah certainly made the right choice in pursuing her dreams.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What made you fall in love with wedding planning?

I tend to think of myself as having 3 children — my actual two children, Benjamin who is 2 years old and Serena my 5 months old baby — but also my third baby which is my business! Every day is a struggle to balance my time between these 3 commitments. They keep me busy — but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Whilst I was born in the UK, I moved to Sydney 4 years ago and live in Sydney with my husband and kids. We travel back to Italy each year to deliver the seasonal weddings, which is a great excuse to also visit family and friends in Europe at the same time.

I remember the moment I knew that event planning was for me – I was evaluating different career options following my degree. (which was in Law, not events!) There were about 4 different roles I was thinking about. However, the only thing that kept “sticking with me” was event planning. I decided to pursue it.

My first role was at the Ritz Hotel and this cemented my passion for wedding planning – I loved meeting couples, exploring their vision and seeing the wedding day unfold. I then moved into the field of private events working for HM The Queen’s Household at Buckingham Palace. I loved every moment of my time there and was privileged to be involved in some of the big historical events. However, I missed working with the public and especially with couples; and that’s when I moved to Italy to pursue destination wedding planning.

What made you decide to move to Italy?

My career in London spanned 5 years and by then I felt I had experienced the best that London had to offer. As a person, I like to continually grow and challenge myself. I had always LOVED Italy as a location — so when I was thinking about the next step for my career, moving abroad, learning a new language and working in destination weddings, sounded like a good fit for me. The concept of Love Story Eventswas born, but I knew I needed to get hands on experience in Italy before I could fully launch the company.

When I got to Italy, there were a number of challenges. At first I worked in Rome – it wasn’t the best experience as I ended up not being paid for the 6 months I worked and having to sleep in the office. But by then I had already invested and was determined not to go back home without having gained the experiences and insights into destination wedding planning that I needed. 

I moved to the Amalfi Coast and was fortunate enough to connect with the right people there and so my destination wedding planning experience began. The language took me a good 6 months to pick up — it was helped by the fact that I met my (now) husband there, which was certainly all the motivation I needed to learn quickly! After 2 years delivering destination weddings in Italy, fluent in Italian and having married myself, I was ready to move into the next phase.

In your expert opinion, what are the essentials to creating an unforgettable wedding?

In my opinion having a destination wedding it makes it unforgettable — it sets the wedding apart as an experience of a country, especially as guests tend to make a holiday experience out of it. I love seeing both the Bride & Groom’s reaction when they first see their wedding venue and also the guest at the wedding — they are often rendered speechless as they step into the venue and see the views (especially on the Amalfi Coast).

Another essential to an unforgettable wedding is the delivery — what I mean by this is how it flows on the day, how relaxed the couple are and the guest perception. The key to the success of this is in the planning. It ensures that all the details you have put into the day come to pass and that the celebration runs smoothly. It is important the wedding is a true expression of the couples styles, personalities, ideas and vision, so that the day feels genuine not a like putting on a show — making for an authentic, unforgettable wedding for all.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

Being discovered has been the hardest thing. Whilst I was confident I had the passion and skill to create destination weddings, I needed to learn a lot about how to reach my target audience and thus about social media. Marketing is always evolving, it is a constant learning curve to keep up with. Persevering with getting the brand out there is still challenging, but I am beginning to see real growth in the company and so I am encouraged to see that my efforts are starting to pay off.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

The best advice I can give is not to over think things in the start-up phase and to deal with problems or challenges as they arise. It is easier to find a solution when you are “in motion” rather than thinking about it being static. Honestly, before I set up Love Story Events, I found myself wondering how living in Australia and having a baby (I had just given birth to our son at the time) was going to work logistically with planning weddings in Italy. But I also knew I had worked too hard to give up on my dream. So I started the company. — and solutions presented themselves as I went along. So my advice is to get started! ?

www.lovestoryitaly.com

Louisiana-native Connie Harris began her extensive career in decorative arts more than 30 years ago after leaving her management position at a small medical practice. She initially focused on hand-painted tiles, and for years, she created handcrafted backsplashes and unique bathroom scapes all while raising three boys.

We spent some time with Connie to find out more about how her passion became her pay check and what the future has in store for her…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to the world of decorative painting…
I grew up like most little girls, dreaming of becoming an artist, a dancer, an actor or a singer. Never in my wildest dreams did I think I would achieve the level of success that is my passion and make it in to a career. When I made the decision to leave full time employment as a Physician’s office manager to become a “painter”, most people (friends and family alike) thought I was a bit crazy. But I had determination and a head and heart full of confidence that I could succeed at anything I set my mind to.

I am the oldest girl of 8 children, I have one older brother. When I was 3 years old, I had 4 younger siblings, therefore, I learned from a very early age to be independent and self sufficient, but also caring and compassionate, in that I felt compelled to always help my mom with household chores and family care taking. I believe that helped me to become who I am, and able to take the leaps of faith I have along the way, pretty much fearlessly.

You raised three boys whilst launching your business, how did you manage this?
Jumping out of high school into a marriage and children made me realise that I had to fight for my dreams, the hard way. The few years of business management in college did help me to be a little more savvy in my painting business. And the financial needs of my family left no room for the typical “starving artist” scenario. I was determined from the beginning to be massively successful. I would dream it up, write it out, and set it in motion.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?
In the early 80’s, My interest in canvas painting and the (then) popularity of hand-painted tiles, led me to learn (self taught) the practices of china painting, which I developed into a world wide line of hand-painted tiles and vanity bowls. When that trend started to die, I quickly transferred my skills to walls and dove head first, into learning the techniques of skilled artisans in the Faux finish world. I became obsessed with creating gorgeous walls, ceilings, floors, cabinets, furniture, etc etc. Over time, I used all of my skills, and the vast product lines I had learned to utilise, to create canvases in multi media and epoxy poured resins. (You have to be a little bit adventurous to light up a gas torch to blow out a resin piece.) Unlike artwork of one dimensional “paint”, the layers of plasters, sandstone, holographic foils, gold and silver leaf, crushed glass, resin dipped flowers, ferns, etc, etc, etc, give my canvas art pieces incredible depth and organic interest. I find clients gazing at the pieces in wonder of the deep dimensions and magic of each one. It takes me awhile to release each piece for sale because of my attachment to every creation.

I feel so incredibly lucky to do what I do , that I would not change a thing along the path. The difficulties were, and are, a part of the journey.

Tell us about your ideal client?
Every one of my clients is an ideal client. I strive to make them feel as if they are my “only” client. In my Faux Finish practice, I try very hard to not “Jump” around between jobs. When I start a project, no matter how big or small, I stay with it until it is complete. All of my clients become my friends/family. I have begun to do work for children and even grandchildren of clients.

You have had to adapt over the years as trends have changed, how do you keep on top of this?
In the Faux Finish world, trends are followed as with any part of the Interior Design world. It’s actually quite simple to change a certain textured wall finish to a current colour trend. The creators of FauxEffectsInternational, Modern Masters, Meoded International, etc, which produce many of the materials I use in my practice, keep their colours with current trends, enabling me to be prepared for those changes.

Your work has taken you all over the world. What destination is at the top of your bucket list?
Although I have worked all over the world, my favourite place to work is home town New Orleans, particularly the VieuxCarre, the French Quarter and surrounding Marigny and Faubourg: Fascinating and Magical all of the time. I will park blocks away from jobs sites so that I can walk the streets enjoying the sites, sounds, and smells of this incredible place.

I am fortunate that my business has expanded exponentially since conception, quite frankly with little to no advertisement.

How has your business expanded since you started out?
Simply providing an excellent product, with perfection at front and centre of the services I offer to my clients, with speed and attention to details, and concern for the clients property keeps me booked for months in advance.

What advice would you offer to anyone looking to launch a business in your field?
This is the best advise I could offer anyone getting into this field. Always respect the environment and the integrity of the space you work in.

What was life like growing up in Louisiana?
Louisiana is a magical place. Our culture is so diverse. The moss laden trees, plantation homes, rivers, bayous, and swamps are like fairy land. And offers so much inspiration for the creative mind. I am most fortunate to live in a plantation home, “Chatsworth”., (and welcome the spirits that share it with me.).

What does 2020 look like for you?
2020 will be a banner year for me with new endeavours and experiences. Along with continuing my journey in the field of Decorative Painting, the carriage house addition to my home serves as a classroom in which I will share my knowledge of FauxPainting to students from all over the country. This is a dying art, and I find it necessary to pass this on in my workshops. Also, because of recent success at entertaining small events, such as weddings, and corporate parties here at Chatsworth, I am working on opening a full service Wedding and Event venue. My beautiful landscape and massive oak trees provide quite an appropriate setting for such things.

For more of a snapshot in to the life of Connie, check out her website here.

Speaking with Felicia V. Bland, is like speaking with a ray of sunshine. She is a breath of fresh air and positivity amidst an increasingly cynical world, and she radiates this attitude through her own business as well. Mille’s Best, named after her grandmother and inspired by her own daughter, is an amalgamation of all the positive values that Felicia stands for. Aside from selling sustainable organic hand-crafted products, she has also created a support network of female artisans — each one promoting empowerment, diversity, friendship, and sustainability. Why buy your soap from anywhere else?

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what inspired you to start Millie’s Best?

I am a creative person, that loves food, beauty, art, reading, traveling, learning new things & doing crafts. I was born, raised and currently reside— in New Jersey, USA. In 2014, I started experimenting with handcrafted soaps & delicious body butters. I took a variety of professional courses on cold process soap making, hot process soap making, and essential oils in New York City. The Youtube handcrafted soap gurus Soap Queen’s Ann Marie Faiola, was one of my 1st great online teachers. Then I started to make, gift, donate & sell my handcrafted skincare products away to family, friends & to a local school for a fundraiser.

My love for healthy, handcrafted, natural and organic skincare products inspired me to start Millie’s Best. I come from a lineage of naturalist, creatives, hand-crafters, and business women. The company is named after my grandmother, Mildred. She was a beautiful, elegant, spiritual and creative person with gorgeous skin, and her skincare routine was natural and uncomplicated. She was a seamstress that designed, made and sold her own clothes. My daughter, Beauty, is a beautiful & elegant creative soul, that loves skincare, makeup, beauty, fashion and the arts, she currently has her own Mink eyelash business. She keeps me up to date on current beauty trends, social media and she inspires me daily. She was the one who encouraged me to start and continue to grow my company.

Could you run us through how your products are ethically and sustainably made?

Millie’s Best is currently an exclusive skincare online platform that offers a variety of luxurious, natural, vegan, organic, handcrafted artisan beauty products from different artisans in North America. I partner with some wonderful women with great brands. Some of my partners are Jillian of Butter Me Up Organics from California, Melissa of Elegant Rose Boutique from Michigan, Stephanie of Code Skincare from Florida and Tammi of Hanna Herbals from Illinois. They make their products in small batches, with lots of love. Each artisan has their own eco-friendly processes that are both ethical and sustainable. They use natural sustainably sourced, cruelty free ingredients with certified organic ingredients in small batches.

I would like to give a special Shout-out to all the handcrafted artisans throughout the world; your creativity, pride, devotion & commitment to your craft & the handcrafted industry is amazing and inspiring.

Why should we choose handcrafted soap?

You should choose handcrafted soaps because they are luxurious, delicious, & eco-friendly; they are made in small batches by handcrafted artisans. The artisans use high quality ingredients, beautiful natural oils, delicious butters, luxurious milks, fresh botanicals and natural essential oils. Handcrafted soaps are gentle, moisturising and safe. The pH of handcrafted soap is between 8-10, which is safe to use on the skin. Handcrafted soaps are free from harsh chemical detergents, hardeners and synthetic lathering agents. These harsh chemical ingredients can be drying and irritating to your skin and dangerous to the environment.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

My biggest challenge as a new online beauty and skincare entrepreneur has been managing all the social media outlets, marketing and selling online effectively. I am currently learning how to balance learning and applying all of this new tech, website & social media information. It is an exciting and ever-changing time for online entrepreneurship.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

Sometimes failing is a blessing and sometimes losing is winning but never give up. There are some talented & amazing women, that never act on their dreams & give up on their dreams because of the fear of failure. Some fail and stop pursuing their dreams. Thomas Edison failed 10,000 times before the light bulb worked, but to him each failure was a lesson. I have come to learn that failure can teach us a lot of lessons, that enables us to learn & grow.It is a blessing to be able to start all over again,because you still have the beauty of the breath of life; do something even if it’s small. Take a class, get a mentor, start the business, but do something to act on your dream consistently. All true creatives, hand-crafters & entrepreneurs know that the winning is in the growth & perseverance.

www.milliesbest.com

Esther Müller-Schmidt is a woman on a mission. Following her pivot from IT to interiors, Esther has really honed in on her craft and made a name for herself in the industry. Whilst leaving a lucrative career in IT would be hard for anyone, Esther felt a real desire to follow her passion and has never looked back since.

Here, we chat to Esther about her plans for the brand, juggling life and career and what 2020 looks like for her…

Tell us about the journey that led you to launch your own brand?

Already as a young girl, I discovered my affinity towards textiles. At the age of 11, I was learning the basics on my mother’s sewing machine, and soon, I was creating my first interior and fashion items. With the years, I complimented my talent and sense of aesthetics with solid interior design training. Permanent presence at international design fairs and fashion shows keep inspiring my creativity. Apart from my evolution as an interior designer, I completed economic and language studies and worked for several years in the IT industry. Today, I solely focus on my passion for interiors.

You take inspiration from your African roots, can you tell us more about your heritage and life growing up?

Despite my completely German imprint and culture, I have always been interested in everything international and studiedEnglish, Spanish & French as foreign languages, as well as international business administration. After a career in the IT industry, my first daughter was born. But with my extraordinary interest in interiors and textiles, I went back to my passion, and as a result of that, somewhat accidentally, to conventional fashion wax printing materials. Very quickly, I decided to work with the Dutch textile company VLISCO. A textile giant for over 165 years, with an unbelievably large production volume for the most luxurious and high-quality wax print fabrics in the world! However, its primary market is West Africa, ours is Europe.

How did you pivot from working in IT to have your own interiors brand?

After having worked in the IT industry for big players such as IBM for more than 10 years, having previously worked for big companies such as L’Oréal, Renault, Mercedes and many more while studying business administration, having supported countless exciting VIP supports in my 4 years as an EXPO2000 ambassador, as well as major music bands such as the Rolling Stones, Bruce Springsteen and many more, it was my turn to start the family. At the age of 30, I had my first beautiful daughter, soon after, my second. After that, it became clear to me that I wanted to pursue my textile passion.

Describe your ideal client…

There are, of course, different ideal clients and business partners! On the one hand, the selective project customers who equip restaurants, hotels, or luxury holiday homes. In addition, there are enthusiastic end customers, who show an enormous enthusiasm for very specific designs. Then, there are our business partnerships with interior stylists & set stylists, who repeatedly place our FASHION PILLOWS in very creative photoshoots and productions. Europe’s largest interior fair “Maison & Objet Paris” is something very special for me personally, as I was already obsessed with the dream of doing something professional in Paris as a teenager. My stepfather had been often at the fair, and that’s why I also wanted exactly THAT! My dream has really come true! Our interior label was one of the most clicked online brands presented by the “Maison & Objet” Paris, whereby we were presented with the popular FASHION PILLOWS at a very large exhibition stand together with other interior labels, right at the main entrance area. What a dream, crazy!!

With three daughters and a husband, how do you create a work-life balance?

With my three girls, they are now 12, nearly 10 and 2 years old, it’s a real rush hour. With my business experience, my natural talent for organisation, which basically stems from the desire for simplification, I even manage to find time for myself by strictly planning family, work, child and couple time. I then travel, or just meet friends, take time out at thehotel, etc. My husband has been so successful for 30 years with his hip-hop band “Die fantastischen Vier” that he, despitebeing a 5-time judge of “The Voice of Germany”, with several tours, TV engagements and advertising deals, still manages to pursue his passion of racing cars on the legendary Nordschleife at the Nürburgring, as well as private aviation. As you can see, our life is very turbulent, and this can only be managed with planning and steady nerves because our 3 girls always!! come first for us.

To date, what has been your biggest achievement?

Definitely the success at the Maison & Objet Paris! But also numerous appearances in interior magazines AND the great feeling of having sold out the first collection immediately after the presentation phase. Of course, we still have the patterns from the collection, which we lend exclusively for styling productions. These are very precious to us!

Working exclusively on your passion for interiors, what do you like to do to switch off from work?

I enjoy the smile of my children and holding their faces in my hands, spending time alone with my husband, eating cheese fondue every week and drinking exclusive wines, partyingwith friends. In that order..!

What does 2020 look like for you?

For me personally, it is always wonderful to have a new year! I love new things! Every beginning of the year is like a pardon. I feel like I can just rate everything once more and decide. I can also leave the old and anything heavy behind and try to remember all the gifts of life.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?

Oh, yes, of course! This is very easy! I say it with the words of my very loving grandma from northern Germany, “Estherchen, enjoy your life, enjoy it!” And that concerns above all, the little joys and moments! So, of course, enjoy everything even more, even in the job! Everything else often results from this!

For an inspiring interior designer, what advice would you offer?

For the private interior sector, I always recommend omitting as much as possible, to stay in a neutral colour world and then to style according to taste with usual accessories such as pillows, decorative objects, etc. The pillow can thus, for example, become very much a focal point. “FASHION PILLOWS – as a character of the room”!

To view the FASHION PILLOWS COLLECTION visit www.mueller-schmidt.com or follow on Instagram @muellerschmidtinteriortextiles

Little Cirkus offers designer children’s products and a unique range of skin and hair products that contain only vegan and organic ingredients. Everything is produced in Sweden and the company was founded by ultimate Bossbabe Anna Aro Ring who launched the company after she became a mother.

Devoted to a healthy lifestyle, it was no shock that Little Cirkus would be a brand all around toxin free skincare. Here, we chat to Anna to find out more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching Little Cirkus…
It all started with a dot on my son’s cheek. A dot that became a big wound which spread. Me and my husband visited different dermatologists in Stockholm, and got several different referrals and cream prescriptions. After seeing Sweden ́s foremost dermatologist and they neither could find out what it was, and how we could overcome it, it aroused curiosity out of frustration that nothing helped. Read through a lot and realized that I did not find the completely clean and non-toxic product that I was looking for, nor packaged in a nice bottle that is happy to stand in the bathroom, I realized I had found a hole in the market that needed to be filled.

It’s really worrying to think that before launching your brand, it was hard to find child friendly products with no toxins. How did you start researching how to launch them yourself?

Once I decided to develop a skin and hair care series, I started working with knowledgeable people, which has been the key to everything. Lorentz, our son, became guinea pig and after year of development we landed in the products that are now sold by Little Cirkus.

Looking back, is there anything you would do differently?

Both yes and no. I think it is impossible not to make small mistakes, from them I have learned a lot. I don´t think you can throw yourself into a new market and believe that you can do everything, you have to be humble.

But sure, some investment I might have been able to wait with, but on the other side, Little Cirkus haven’t been what it is today if I had not done the misses I made.

Your products are all vegan friendly, do you also follow a vegan diet?

I´m quite devoted to a healthy lifestyle, and after I started Little Cirkus I have become more conscious. Both in terms of food but also what we feed the skin with. I would say that today most people are quite well informed that there is a connection with what you eat and your wellbeing, but I think many forget that even what we put on the skin also feed our internal organs.

I have been a vegetarian for long periods of life and if there is a vegetarian option I prefer it, but I absolutely could not live a life without including a spaghetti with seafood and a bottle of wine, so I´m not a freak. I have a playful approach, not a dead serious one.

How do you plan on expanding the range in the future?

There are several products in the pipeline and we received several requests from our customers – Little Cirkus best products developer!

Very recently we released a bar soap which is our first product with scent. Another sought after products is sunlotion, the dream would be to develop a sun cream that was completely non-toxic!

With being a mother and an entrepreneur, how do you create a healthy work / life balance?

I don´t  Being an entrepreneur is one of the things that I love the most, but you need to be on top all the time. So finding that balance is incredibly challenging. Working as an entrepreneur is a way of life, you are never 100% free, the job does not end – YOU are the business.

But then in it there are incredible opportunities, and that I love!

A rule has been to put away all the work from when we pick up our son from kindergarten until he falls asleep, then I can work late in the evening instead. It creates more quality time for the whole family! But good how difficult it is!

Before launching your business, what career did you have?

I have worked for several years in television and radio production, mainly as editor and project manager. Then I worked as editor-in-chief of a design magazine before I became a mother.

What does 2020 look like for you?

New products and new markets. It feels incredibly fun and exciting that we have gained such great interest outside Sweden´s borders! And of course continuing to do what we do best, make organic and vegan skincare for our babies.

What does self care mean to you?

To not be too hard on yourself and allow yourself to take a minute break here and there. You can ́t be perfect, and it’s so important to think to yourself with a clear mind, without being a mom or entrepreneur. Enjoy something you like, maybe a manicure or a bath. It ends up being better for everyone in the family when you are happy and balanced.

Follow Little Cirkus for more…

Originally from Panama, Lourdes Gaudiano came to Switzerland in 2006. What began as a hobby – making soaps and selling them at local markets, Family and friends – soon turned into a business. However, after selling her products for several years, she realized that Luxury was not associated with sustainability, and as someone who is really conscious about the environment she realized that she could make a positive impact bringing these two worlds together. Lourdes is the passionate and savvy woman behind the natural skincare brand Luly Gaudiano.

Here at House of Coco we really champion brands that care about the environment and we are truly behind the mission that Luly Gaudiano is on. We spent some time with her to find out more…

Tell us about the story that lead you launching the brand…

When I came to live in Switzerland, I was expecting to learn the language get a job and have a normal life, but nothing prepared me for the long journey I was going to have.

I live in the German part of Switzerland that means that the official language is German but on daily basis they speak Swiss German a dialect. I visited many German classes and still I couldn’t communicate properly it is like learning Italian in Panama.After 300+ applications I could only have a part time job for 6 months.that was very hard because I had finished a Master degree in a top university in Madrid and if you don’t have experience and do not speak the language you have no chance.

One day I was totally depressed at home and my husband told me you need to find a hobby. and that’s how we went to a handcraft shop and bought a book on how to make cold process soaps.

I started making tons of soaps but didn’t know what to do with them so again my husband suggested me to sell them in the local markets and I visited my first market about 9 years ago when I was 4 months old pregnant.

I sold to my family and friends in Panama, I visited many markets, I did natural cosmetic courses in France where I met my mentor, the one who told I should make a business out of it, but the real turning point was when I was in a Christmas market selling at -11 °.I’m from Panama, over there is around 29° year round and only two seasons, wet and dry. I questioned my entire existence for the time it lasted. I refuse to suffer again like that so After thinking how to do it, I contacted my mentor and told her let do this.I was supposed to do only bar soaps but again my circumstances where not the best, with a kid and my family one continent awayI didn’t have the support to produce them myself and at the same time taking care of a kid, that’s how we came to the idea of working with a professional lab who could do them for me.

I was too small for the labs here in Switzerland, so it took me around 2 + years and a shot of luck to find one that was willing to take my project. They didn’t produce soaps but offer me the possibility to make a line with the 3 products so I tweak my first idea and made the line with the 3 products that I’m selling now.

How I came with the Idea of sustainable luxury?

I have to start that saying that women in Panama likes to take care of their look, we do spend a ridiculous amount of time in the beauty salon but that doesn’t mean that we are superficial. we are hard workers educated, great friends mothers and looking good on the outside doesn’t mean were are weak, it’s a part of our culture and we really enjoy it.

On the other sideas a kid I was always worry about the environment and used to ask to my parents donations for saving the rain forest as birthday presents, so when I came to Switzerland I was fascinated on how they took care of the environment and how advance they are in the natural cosmetic world. I immediately started to switch to more clean swiss brands, I enjoyed recycling but I realize the more I was into this world how apart it was from the luxury industry, and I thought about myself,I like nice stuff and to take care of myself but I still care about the worlds problems and making a brand that stands for sustainability and luxury could bring more people to the green side without being judgmental.I’m not about pointing who is doing it wrong but more about building a brand that people doesn’t feel to give up their lifestyle in order to be more conscious about the environment.You can be both pretty on the inside as well as the outside. You can be an Iron woman with hearts of gold

How do you want people to feel when thy use your skin care products?

I wan them to feel ethical, knowing that the products they use are made with fairly source ingredients, no animal testing, clean energy and ingredients, minimum and recyclable packaging that allows them to close the circle.

What sets you apart from other beauty brands?

The concept of bringing Luxury and Sustainability together. Environmental problems affect all of us, it doesn’t matter if we’re rich or poor and bringing awareness to this group is key to fight it.

In 2020, what are your plans for the brand?

The most important is to make the brand financially stable to bring my 4th product to the market, although it has been a very bumpy road, I did enjoy developing the products.That means promoting the brand, hopefully participate in another expo and of course find more outlets to sell the products.

One of the reasons beauty brands fail is because they fail on marketing side.How do you spread the word about what do you do?

Today is everything about promoting our brands in social media contacting retailers sending samples pushing mails, yes that’s part of it, but we are failing to simply start spreading the word around us with our family and friends, that strangers at the party may work in an important retailer or have some connections. I asked people if they’re not interested, they can be a great help just liking my post on Instagram. Avoiding being too pushy is key for me and this mix has helped me to get the right exposure to participate in a few articles in an online magazine for Indi brands, my products will be show case in 3 editions from Vogue UK, I got a contact for an interview in my country a shout out from a influencer with 100+k followers for free, an interview with house of coco and a decent amount of orders.

For any aspiring entrepreneurs, what advice would you offer?

First take care of your health, specially your mental health it’s a tough ride.

Don’t get to emotionally attach to your project, you will get too many no’s if you get offended every time someone reject your project you won’t go too far.

Don’t worry too much about what other people are doing don waste your time on social media feeling sorry on what you haven’t achieve, if is upsetting you unfollow.

Be inspired by others don’t copy, every journey is different focus your energy on solving your challenges you will get plenty of them.

Work smarter not harder, get an agenda, keep a to do list prepare yourself the night before, etc.Keep clean and organize your working area put a plant make it welcoming to be there.

Don’t forget you still a human being, be kind to yourself. Your family and friends will love you no matter what.

And the most important, learn how and when to listen to your brain, heart and gut they are your biggest allies.

Enjoy the ride.

What are you doing to make your brand sustainable?

We are made with green energy, our ingredients are non-toxic, we use minimum packaging and recyclable , we don’t use samples sachets, talking with a producer hetold us that they are not recyclable and they put the recycling symbol because the clients ask for it and as it’s not regulated they do it.Every company that I work is in line with my belief, so they have sustainable practices in their own offices and of course I try to make sustainable decisions on everything I do on daily basis.

Why is this something that interest you?

Because I have seen how indifference have destroy fantastic places in my country.We have the most beautiful nature but we don’t take care of it, and that’s is recurrent in too many places, I see here in Switzerland that is possible develop into a first world country and taking care of your natural resources.

What does self-care mean to me?

For me self-care is so important, I need time to slow down disconnect from the daily stress and worry, when I take care of myself, I become a happier person a better mom.

Our readers love to travel, what is at the top of your bucket list?

Petra in Jordan!

Outside of work, what do you do to switch off?

I love to take a quick shower before going to bed and that’s how actually I came with the 3 products (I exfoliate twice a week) use the Luxury cream that leaves my skin super! Silky I wear a nice pyjama and perfume, burn essential oil, organize the house, my next day agenda and write on my diary listening to relaxing music.

I recently discover that baking help me to switch off, a good chat with a friend, and of course fool around with my kids if you understand your kids they can be a pretty cool gang to hang out specially if you play music.

Tell us your favourite quote to read when you lack creativity?

There must be a way!

The best place to find motivation is inside yourself.

Luly is a true inspiration, follow her for more updates www.lulygaudiano.com

There are very few people in the world as determined and focused as Blythe Leonard, and it is undeniably inspiring. Unfazed by any challenge, she started her own namesake label straight out of graduating from University. Fashion, design, and manufacturing are in her blood — and she takes constant inspiration from her family’s textile mill, with the goal of reinvigorating America’s Manufacturing Industry and reducing her business’ own carbon footprint.

Aside from managing her own successful business, Blythe also contributes to her local community through a variety of social and charity work. At the very least, Blythe Leonard is a very inspiring woman indeed, but I think she is gearing up to take over the world — one fabulously made leather good at a time.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background. What inspired you to start Blythe Leonard?

You could say that my passion for fashion and design began even before I could walk. Even from my stroller, I would snag any velvet garment and jolt my mother to a quick halt. My professional career started at the age of ten, when I established my own jewellery company, The Blythe Collection. Designing bespoke pieces for clients has been in my blood for a long time. Wanting to further develop my design skills, I attended the Savannah College of Art and Design in Savannah, Georgia, where I graduated in 2015 with a B.F.A in Fashion Design and a minor in Accessory Design.

As a student, I was able to season my skills, follow my heart and ultimately pursue the American dream, to own my own company. I established Blythe Leonard because of my desire to create, and my need to explore different textures, shapes, styles and aesthetics on a daily basis. I am a very hands-on artist. Being able to develop clients bespoke luxury accessories is such a gratifying feeling. Each leather good is a work of functional art. I could not see myself doing any other line of work. It’s my love.

How important is the ‘Made in USA’ label to the ethos of your brand?

I grew up in my family’s textile mill, seeing first-hand how important it is to keep manufacturing jobs in my community. By supporting other American Made companies for supplies, it ultimately provides jobs throughout the town, county, and country. By sketching, patterning, and sewing everything myself, I get to experience the joy of walking through the design process eloquently while satisfying my passion for hands on creating. Not to mention a heightened awareness of attention to detail and quality. I also feel it is very important to reduce our carbon footprint.

You’re all about community and philanthropy. How does your brand help your own local community?

Blythe Leonard LLC gives back to the community in many different ways, first through my talents and second through my time. I serve on a local emergency services non-profit and food pantry board, raise funds to purchase design equipment and software for local design clubs, collect toiletries for the homeless and toys for under privileged children at Christmas, and continue to fight for the restoration of our once vital manufacturing city. My company also donates regularly to hundreds of silent auctions throughout the year helping to raise funds for various causes.

Sustainability is also a very important foundation for your brand. Could you give us some insight into how your handbags are produced?

Building on the foundations of my great-grandfather’s textile dye house, I was able to repurpose the manufacturing plant into a beautiful, creative, and productive design workshop and flagship store. Each BL leather good is handmade, one at a time, and always one of a kind. They are constructed without the use of harmful chemicals and adhesives, while being free of various stiffeners such as cardboard and Styrofoam. This makes our products very lightweight and long-lasting. It is also very important for us as a company to use the entire hide, not just parts of it. We utilise every square inch of leather to manufacture various smaller items to accompany each BL bag.

You started Blythe Leonard straight after your graduation. What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as an entrepreneur so far?

Owning your own business means that you wear a lot of hats, usually all at the same time. The hardest thing for me is to relinquish tasks because I have had to do it all myself for so long. Trusting those you work with and loving them like family makes it much easier to surrender some of the daily tasks that owning your own business requires.

What advice do you have for women who would like to become a GirlBoss like yourself?

My biggest piece of advice to anyone wanting to start a business is to follow your instincts and your heart. Don’t let anyone tell you that you cannot do something; it just takes hard work, long hours and strict dedication to go towards your goal. As my mother has always told me, “You always go towards what you focus on.”

www.blytheleonard.com

Nathalia Grisard is the brainchild behind GNGR Bees and someone who is not only well traveled but well suited to the role of entrepreneur. She started in the fashion industry at the mere age of 16, back in her hometown of Brazil and from here she went on a mission to conquer the world, not letting fear hold her back. Having worked with a number of fashion houses, she decided that the time had come to launch her own brand and express her passions through nature, empowerment and health. That is when GNGR bees was born.

Here, she tells us more about why her clothes make you feel empowered, her plans for the future and more…

Tell us about the journey that lead you to launching GNGR Bees…

I didn’t start out wanting to create my own business but as a consumer looking for brands that were consistent with my own values and beliefs. For me, that meant finding a brand that wasn’t driven by mindless consumerism and had a greater sense of responsibility and identity. GNGR as a brand started as I struggled to find that. Today, having embodied those values into a business, I’m very proud to have created fashion with purpose for a much better world.

The brand is all about reclaiming, recycling and up cycling. Can you tell us more about this?

Giving new life to materials that would otherwise be disposed in our environment is at the heart of what we do. We partner up with social enterprises and companies that have the same values as us and believe business should be done differently. Together, we create every element of GNGR Bee’s supply chain, such as our up cycled packaging that can be used in many different ways once they get to our clients homes and of course our clothing, which is currently made by recycling plastic bottles.

What is your mission with the brand?

My mission put simply, is empowerment. We want to empower people to consciously make better decisions when they purchase new products. Everything we buy tells a story, and it’s up to you to choose which one you want to tell.

How do you want people to feel when they wear your clothes?

I want them to feel like they are wearing more than just clothing. They are wearing fashion that is empowering, cleaning and saving the planet. They are wearing their values and standing up for everything they believe in. Our garments are more than clothing, they are a story – from the plastic bottles that are rescued, to the special needs adults that hand paint the clothing sacks and the community in Rwanda that create our packaging. I want them to feel proud of telling this story and realising that when they join the GNGR family they are writing the next chapter.

What are your plans for the brand in 2020?

There is a lot happening in 2020. Since launching last September, I came to understand even more so what I wanted GNGR Bees to be. Our mission and our values are strong and drive everything we do. 2020 will bring collections that will go beyond reclaiming materials, a special wellness retreat and we will be embracing more community partners and also funding our own projects!

Who’s your dream customer?

Every woman is my dream customer! A free spirit, she loves moving her body and doing whatever gives her joy. She is taking on the world whilst still caring about how her actions impact the ones around her and our planet!

Outside of the brand, what do you do for fun?

I am a true life adventurer – I absolutely love everything that has movement involved. I have a lot of energy so I am always trying new active things and I try finding life balance with yoga and cuddles with my golden retriever, Sammy.

Looking back, since launching the brand, is there anything you would do differently?

No. I wouldn’t. My brand took me on a journey where I learned a lot and I think every mistake I made was essential to its development. Before I even launched there was a lot people with different opinions over what and how I should do it. Was nice to hear different feedback however I quickly learned to trust my gut, and since then, it has become my best business partner.

What does self care mean to you?

To me, it means respecting my needs and wants and prioritising them over my crazy routine. Usually my body asks for activity and nature, and doing that feels wonderful. On rare days, all it wants to do is to eat vegan junk food and watch Netflix, also fine! The body asks what it needs and it’s important to listen!

You have learned a lot on your journey since launching the brand, what has been the biggest lesson?

A product without a purpose and brand is just a product.

Our readers love to travel, what destination is at the top of your bucket list?

Peru!!!! I have always loved travelling to culturally rich places and immersing myself in the middle of it all. Nothing beats knowing a place like the locals do and I have been curious about the forests of Peru and Machu Picchu for an eternity!

Tell us your favourite quote to read when you are lacking inspiration…

“A candle loses nothing by lighting another candle”. When we support each other and expect nothing back, the room becomes a lot brighter and it’s important to trust the ones around you. My family, husband and friends are always encouraging me to go a step further and I never need to look far for inspiration and love.

Where can people find out more…

At our website at gngrbees.com or on our Instagram @gngrbees.

Today’s interviewees started out running a popular jewelry boutique when they realised a dreadful leniency in trade regulations and how this impacted not only the quality of their products but also people with allergies. Here comes the science part – where Tarnish-Me-Not’s CEO, Tatiana, worked tirelessly to crack the formula that would stop all this, hearing plenty of ‘no’s’ on the journey but ending up with the perfect product and a case study in a popular Start Up business book.

Lead image: (Left to Right) Tatiana Tara Arslanouk, Sina Mamkegh, Tina Mamkegh. Wearing Tux Couture by Yansi Fugel.

HOC: Let’s start with the tricky stuff! What’s your elevator pitch for Tarnish-Me-Not?

Team: Tarnish-Me-Not is dedicated to providing revolutionary solutions that lead industry expansion, while positively impacting the lives of others through philanthropic efforts. Our patented formula replaces generations of jewelry care products with the most effective, accessible and affordable solution to preserve your jewelry against tarnish, while protecting your skin from irritation.

Dermatologist tested and approved, Tarnish-Me-Not is highly recommended for those who suffer from mild to severe skin allergies caused by Nickel. Spray Tarnish-Me-Not directly to jewelry for long lasting protection and a flawless finish. Tarnish-Me-Not is a proud partner of the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, to which we donate $1.00 for each unit sold – all year long.

HOC: Tell us about your journey to be running this business? We understand you used to run a jewellery boutique?

Team: Yes, we did! It’s surreal to think about how our journey manifested into all of this. In 2010, we were creating handmade jewelry, headbands and jewelry boxes in our parents’ basements. Six months later, we opened the doors of our first business, Eye Candy Boutique. In 2011, our CEO, Tatiana Arslanouk was nominated as one of the ‘Top Six Young Entrepreneurs in the Country’ for Ernst & Young’s GSEA competition. The business was growing at a rapid, yet healthy pace. All was right with the world.

At Eye Candy, we carried unique statement jewelry, many of which, were hard to come by. In such a saturated market, our competitive advantage was our devotion to going above and beyond for our customers, in every way. However, it became increasingly difficult to satisfy our customer-centric standards when facing the inevitable issues related to metals. Jewelry is highly susceptible to tarnishing and discoloration due to various uncontrollable factors. More importantly, the most common metals found in jewelry are notorious for causing contact skin allergies and discoloration (i.e. irritation/redness/green-tinted skin). As terrible as this all sounds, we weren’t so worried at first. We always find a solution to help our customers, and this would be no exception to that rule. This was all true until we did some digging and realized that the problem was much larger than we thought.

Turns out, regulations of the global jewelry industry were nowhere near the standards we expected. Manufacturers and retailers can legally label their jewelry as ‘Nickel-Free’ if the item contains less than 5% of Nickel. Well, that 5% is more than enough to cause some allergy sufferers (like our COO, Sina) to break out in hives. It wasn’t just us; this was a problem that was affecting a billion-dollar global industry.

[Fast forward to 2013] We just returned home from a shopping trip, and Tatiana was trying on a brand-new set of rings that she just purchased. After stacking the rings across all her fingers, she held her hand up in admiration of the pristine condition that we all knew would not last. Tatiana sighed and said, “I LOVE these rings but it’s such a shame that they’ll be completely tarnished and turning my skin green in a few days. How is there no solution for this, yet?!”

…And that is the day that Tarnish-Me-Not was created! It’s been almost six years since, and Tatiana still has her perfect set of rings; all sprayed with Tarnish-Me-Not and looking just as they did the day she bought them. As for Sina, her severe Nickel Allergy qualified her as the perfect candidate to test Tarnish-Me-Not; needless to say… she can finally wear all the jewelry that she wants.

HOC: So fascinating! How on earth do you go about formulating and patenting something like Tarnish Me Not?

Team: I didn’t have access to a laboratory, a patent lawyer or the capital to attain them. Most of all, I didn’t have the patience to wait for these resources either. I always had a strong passion for Chemistry, so I wanted full involvement in formulating the product.

I filled my days and nights researching and teaching myself about metals, chemicals and patents – everything that I would need to bring this vision to life. I must have contacted over 50 chemists, including my college Chemistry professor; all of whom, could not create the formula we were looking for. While some didn’t have the capabilities, others flat-out said that it was impossible. Hearing the word ‘no’ quickly became a part of my daily routine.

I continued my research, regardless of the negative feedback. With all the extensive knowledge I gained, I was able to come up with three formulations that could produce the results I was looking for. I brought my findings to an incredible laboratory that helped create our prototypes, conduct testing and narrow it down to one formula. Finally, after years of research and development, Tarnish-Me-Not was born.

During the formulation process, I had studied hundreds of patents, consulted numerous lawyers and ultimately wrote the Tarnish-Me-Not patent. As the daughter of an engineer, I grew up watching my father turn his ideas into reality. He holds over 10 US patents, so I guess attaining my first patent was one of my ‘girl boss’ moments.

HOC: Your first patent definitely qualifies as a Girl Boss Moment! We heard that your start up story was featured in a business book, can you tell us more?

Team: Donatas Jonikas (Ph.D.) contacted us during his research for the upcoming book. In order to write the “Startup Evolution Curve,” he did a global research on startups surveying 1,447 startup founders and running close to 500 additional in-depth interviews. Being a scientist, a marketer, and a military commander makes him an extraordinary coach and mentor for startups where so much uncertainty exists in every step.

During our research and development phase, we quickly realized there were no existing market/industry reports available for our specific niche. However, this initial research is vital to ensuring that we’re addressing these significant problems with the right product offering. With great power comes great responsibility, right? We were creating an entirely new niche in the market, which means: if the research and data does not exist, then it’s our job to gather it.

Our team conducted our own primary market research study over the course of six months. During this time, we surveyed 6,000 women using a systematic sampling technique, asking them three conclusive questions. Through our study, we were able to measure the addressable market, market opportunity, and the impact the product would pose on other markets.

Donatas was impressed by our company’s approach to market research and overcoming a common obstacle that startups face in the research/development phase. After completing in-depth interviews with Donatas, he chose to include Tarnish-Me-Not as a successful case study in his book. It is such a rewarding feeling to know that our work is serving as a guide to help other entrepreneurs. It is also a reminder that we can all learn something from each other’s experiences – no matter what stage of business you’re in.

HOC: On top of this amazing start up experience, you’ve also partnered with Breast Cancer Research foundation through this business, what does that cause mean to you?

Team: When I was thirteen years old, my mother was diagnosed with stage four Breast Cancer; while she was pregnant with my younger sister. At that impressionable age, my world was falling apart. I watched the most beautiful woman I know, fight for life and struggle to feel beautiful. There are no words to describe the toll that cancer takes on a family.

Today, I am incredibly blessed to say that my mother is a cancer survivor. Cancer research saved her life; it saved MY life. That experience lit a fire in my soul, and it opened my eyes to all the ways I can contribute. When I chose the path of entrepreneurship, I was certain that I would dedicate my success to helping others. By partnering with the Breast Cancer Research Foundation, I am able to support an organization that was such an influential part of my journey.

HOC: Very inspiring and what a fire for your onward success. What’s your vision for Tarnish-Me-Not?

Team: We’d like to improve on the lenient standards of metal manufacturing. Through government implemented regulations, manufacturers will be required to apply a coating of Tarnish-Me-Not on to their metal products. In our utopian jewelry industry, metals last longer and Nickel allergies are no longer a concern.

HOC: What advice would you have for our readers wanting to start a business but hearing a lot of ‘Nos’?

Team: “All you need is passion, and the rest will fall into place.” This has been our motto since the beginning of our journey – and we’ve consistently recited it through every ‘No’ and every hurdle. Entrepreneurship is one of the most challenging paths you may ever embark on – and for very good reason. Each day, your commitment, patience and sanity will be tested. Build a strong team with the kind of passion that does not take no for an answer. Whether, you are innovating old practices or presenting new ideas, there will always be someone uncomfortable with change; and they will try to tell you it cannot or should not be done. Take the constructive criticism and be on your way. You’ve got more important things to worry about!

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

HOC: Can you give us an example of a ‘Girl Boss Moment’ you’ve had; a time you really felt you were in your element?

Team: Every day is filled with these moments that are constantly reminding me I was made for this. Being an entrepreneur is more than owning a business. You can be a business owner and still follow a set path that was carved out by someone before you. Entrepreneurship is setting your own path. Controlling your own destiny. Taking FULL responsibility for every aspect of why you are where you are. It’s unpredictable and requires your undivided attention. But you are rewarded everyday with knowing you aren’t living by someone else’s idea of what life should be. Feeling that freedom and independence is me constantly being in my element. I push myself harder than anyone could ever push me. I am by biggest critic. So, from the moment I wake up to the second I go to bed, everyday is a ‘Girl Boss Moment.’

HOC: Who / where do you get your inspiration from?

Team: It may sound cliché, but we definitely have to say our mothers are a huge source of our inspiration. We were raised by such powerful, headstrong women that it was inevitable for us to turn out the way we did! They’re also best friends; and when they team up for a project, they’re unstoppable. Truthfully, they have always been a constant reminder to own who you are, don’t take shit from anyone, and always do what you feel is right.

Our company follows one internal ‘law’, and that is: Our customers are the innovators; We are the executors. Every choice we make is inspired by the needs and ideas of our customers; and we wouldn’t have it any other way. The most rewarding feeling in the world is to hear about their experiences with our product and how it has impacted their lives or business.
Last but not least, our team. This journey truly began over twenty years ago, the day we met. We became best friends in kindergarten, and from that day forward, we were always on a mission. Our friendship is the infrastructure of this entire business and the reason that Tarnish-Me-Not exists today. There is nothing greater than the joined forces of three, tenacious, and powerful women working towards the same goal. We look to each other for support, inspiration and drive each and every day.

HOC: If you ever have a hustle block / funk; how do you get yourself out of it?

Team: Drive! One of our longest running traditions is our ‘Collaboration Drives’. We get in the car, and just go. Sometimes with a destination in mind, and sometimes without. We spend our time in the car just collaborating on any and every topic that comes to mind. Sometimes working in the same traditional manner or place every day can drain your creativity. If we ever find ourselves in a hustle block, we like to change up our environment to get inspired.

We each love to be creative in our own ways and that’s what gets us back into our element. Sometimes we’ll do a joint project, and other times we each do our own. Tatiana is always writing, researching and designing; Sina loves to paint/sketch; and Tina assembles etched models. Regardless of the art, its always so inspiring to be surrounded by each other while we create.

Find our more about Tarnish-Me-Not over at TarnishMeNot.com

Follow the team on Instagram @TarnishMeNot