Serial Entrepreneur Lesley Mattos

Video Interview with Lesley Mattos, founder of Adesso Albums, Inc. and Bottoms-up Inc. (including a crazy, special question from Melinda Massie!).

(scroll down to see the full interview)

Want to connect with Lesley? Follow her…

At Addesso Albums:

Facebook, Twitter, and email

At Bottoms-up:

Facebook, Twitter, and email

***Use the code SingleCEO2010 for a 10% discount at either site***

Thanks, Lesley!!!

Mariagrazia LaFauci, co-Founder of Be Satori and the Eco-Zip Bag

Want to know what sort of famous last words are whispered by executives behind closed doors? A few years ago at Conair it was a repetitive “When are we getting out of here?”. Mariagrazia LaFauci, former VP of Marketing and Product Development for Scunci (later bought by Conair) didn’t just listen to the words of Diana Menaged, her friend and co-worker of ten years. She left her six-figure salary and executive digs, and walked out the door…along with her new business partner.

A Merchandising degree graduate with 15 years experience in product development and marketing, Mariagrazia made the obvious choice to focus the new venture, Be Satori, on developing retail products. A handbag for tweens and a toy line later, Mariagrazia and business partner Diana continued seeking marketplace voids and eventually zeroed in on the Eco-Zip bag. Realizing its potential the pair re-focused, creating the new line of BPA-free plastic storage bags made with 20% less plastic, compartmentalized to get the job done with less waste.

With Eco-Zip scheduled to start shipping to major grocery chain accounts in 2010, and an accomplished business partner and friend at her side, Mariagrazia LaFauci has found that sometimes famous last words are just the beginning.

1.  How does marketing a grocery item compare to marketing hair accessories? Is one more challenging to break into (especially as a newcomer) than the other?

I think the formula is relatively similar regardless of the category because we stayed in the same trade of distribution, we did not go outside of our distribution experience.  Regardless it’s still challenging, breaking down those barriers and winning at these big chains takes diligent hard work. The key to success is making sure you have a viable product that adds value to your customers business.

2. You left an executive level position to start your own small business. What do your former co-workers think, and how do you think you would be received if you decided to re-enter the corporate world?

I am chuckling because my former co-workers know when I do something it’s big and it makes a huge impact on the business I am entering as well as change the lives of the consumers who use the products I develop. As far as re-entering the corporate world, my theory is that ….“it was more of a risk to not have taken the risk at all”. As Far as how I would be perceived it would have to be as a well rounded individual who understands the business development from start to finish!

3.  Eco-zip wasn’t the first product your company invested time in researching and sales testing. What products preceded it, and what convinced you to put all your efforts into Eco-zip?

We developed a kid’s toy line and a kid’s fashion handbag line. We decided to pull both and focus our efforts on Ecozip because it was the line that had the biggest business potential with the least amount of effort compared to the Toys and Fashion handbags.  Toys and Handbags involve much more time to develop and financially are a bigger investment. There is in-depth testing and engineering when developing a toy line, Safety is a key factor and Liability can be very high in this area. Developing a fashion handbag line is a constant changing business because you have to keep up with the Fashion trends every season.

Ecozip to us was something we knew could truly enhance the lives of people who used it and at the same time it would alleviate a burden on our earth. It does not get better then that!!

4.  Your name gives away a little bit about you. What is your family’s background and how has that shaped your personality?

Well, I’m Sicilian and come from a very Italian upbringing. My parents immigrated here in the 70’s and struggled financially.  Growing up and watching this I knew there had to be more. So my motivation and drive lead me towards success in the corporate world. Once I got to watch the success and rise of those that I worked for it motivated me to follow in their footsteps so that I could create a better life for myself , my family and those around me.  My personality has been shaped by the experiences I have lead and I am grateful to have had the background that I did because it is the driving factor that motivates me to continue to grow which allows me to achieve success in all areas of my life.

5.  How has your life changed since leaving the corporate world?

Gosh, if the feeling could only be put into words…I live a better quality life that’s for sure. I have also grown tremendously on multiple levels as an individual. My business experience has magnified and I am a much stronger individual overall.

Financially I took a hit, but the trade off was well worth it. I knew that I was taking ten steps back but would move forward with limitless opportunity.

The biggest one…No politics and I’m able to focus on moving ahead with no distractions from a corporate culture.

6.  What do you like to do for fun?

I really enjoy fine dining. I love a glass of red wine over great conversation. I enjoy traveling to new places.  I am interested in art and since leaving the corporate world I began painting. I hope to one day have my own art gallery.

7.  Describe the person who would best complement both your life and your business.

A complementary partner would be a man who can understand me and my passion. He would support my love for business as well as appreciate the importance of living a fulfilling, joyful abundant life outside of work.  He too should be successful and passionate for his business. Someone who has great communication skills is affectionate and romantic.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself continuing to build my business, inspiring my employees, loving and nurturing my family, feeding my soul artistically and doing philanthropic work.

Mariagrazia’s Bio:

Bio-
As an inventor, Mariagrazia LaFauci brings new meaning to “less is more” with her new product line of Ecozip food storage bags. Ecozip’s “Zip N Flip” technology allows you to separate and organize multiple items all in 1 bag or use the full bag by unzipping the center zipper. The Ecozip product line allows consumers to reduce their bag consumption while giving them versatility and convenience. They also make the bags with less plastic. Mariagrazia Co-Founded Be Satori with her business partner and longtime friend Diana Menaged.
The philosophy behind Be Satori is to bring consumers innovative products that are in harmony with the earth.

History-
With 15 years of experience in product development, branding and marketing products to the main stream, Mariagrazia has touched the lives of countless women and girls through her creative talents at some of the top accessory companies in the nation. Specifically, she is the inventor of the “No Slip Grip” Jaw Clip and Hairband she designed for women’s hair. She came up with the inventions during a seven year stint at SCUNCI a leading fashion hair accessory company where she served as Vice President of Marketing and Product Development. Her invention built the path and direction to incorporate the no slip technology in SCUNCI’S main line of hair accessories after consumers’ made it top choice.

Mariagrazia holds an associate degree in Merchandising, Marketing, and Management from Tobe Coburn School for Fashion Design; she is the daughter of Italian immigrants and speaks Italian fluently. In her spare time she enjoys yoga, experiencing Eastern cultures, painting and meditation.

Casey Arisohn, Founder of Radii Footwear

If you believe Casey Arisohn, success in business is all about who you know. Believe him. The 26 year-old Founder and CEO of Radii Footwear, an upscale sneaker line popular with music artists (think Gwen Stefani and Jay-Z.), launched his first line in August 2008 at the Magic Tradeshow in Vegas and now, less than two years later, boasts distribution in 10 countries and over 350 retail locations.

Casey, a retail worker at age 16, buying assistant by 17, then retail sales rep, also spent his share of time in college, leaving shy of graduation. Realizing he was losing important relationships while away at school, Casey decided to come back to retail as a consultant and manufacturer for private label. Shortly after, a business associate took note of his fast-selling sneaker designs, approached him about working out a partnership, and Radii Footwear was born. With funding, a decade of retail experience behind him, and noteworthy clientele, Casey, along with his partner, enjoyed a staggering $1M in sales in just the first 6 months, cementing the relationship.

The moral of the story? If business really is dependent upon relationships, we all need to meet a few more Caseys.

1.  You are adamant that business is all about who you know. What was the key to building your most important relationships?

I always try to follow the golden rule of treating everyone like I would want to be treated.  Coming up in this business, I recall running into a lot of people that would treat others who weren’t necessarily on the same business level or status as them as such.  You have to be careful, sometimes those people end up in positions where you might need them.

2. Radii’s growth since August 2008 has been off the charts. What advice do you have for small business owners who are struggling in the recession?

Make quality products.  It all comes down to the goods you manufacture.  Sure, the volume might not be where it was years ago, but as long as you’re making quality products that consumers want, you’ll weather the storm and make it through.

3. Dealing with Chinese factories for several years, you must have hit some bumps along the way. What were your biggest challenges, and would you ever consider manufacturing domestically?

Oh boy…bumps don’t even describe it!   The language barrier and lead time slow us down.  When dealing with China, especially in the footwear industry, you’re dealing with a larger time window to produce samples for a season.  We’re working on 2011/12 samples for Radii right now because it takes that long to get the product the way you envision it.

4. Name the five things that most influence your style.

History, fashion, our retailers, price, and competition.

5. For a 26 year-old, you have achieved a high level of personal success. Given that you don’t have a history of it, does the thought of failure scare you?

Honestly, I was a bit scared before I launched the line but that didn’t last long.  We’re too busy to really think about that, to tell you the truth.   With a retail and buyer background, I guess you kind of learn how to shut that emotion off.   I know that in business, everything doesn’t go as planned but I also know that if you plan properly you can’t fail.

6. Are your friends jealous?

Haha…for the most part no.  Most are just stoked and still can’t believe I have a sneaker line.   I hear about competitors that say things here and there but it’s never said to my face.

7. Describe the person who would best complement both your life and your business.

You know, I think someone who has their own set of goals that they want to accomplish.  Someone who is about their business whether it’s finishing school, opening their own business or working for a company.  Someone who has a passion for what they do because I’m passionate about Radii Footwear.  I’m young so I’m sure these things will change as I date more.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Sitting on an empire not just limited to footwear and just being happy.  I want to be able to leave an impact on my generation and generations to come.

Want to connect with Casey? Follow him on Facebook and Twitter!

Verral Rathod, President and co-Founder of J. Hilburn

For a corporate finance guy, the road to success begins with a well-tailored shirt. For Veeral Rathod, ex-financial professional and co-Founder of men’s luxury apparel line J. Hilburn, that same tailored shirt is where the road ends.

Veeral began his career in finance after receiving a liberal arts degree from the University of Pennsylvania, getting his foot in the door at a Wall Street firm after graduation with the help of friends. Eventually landing in Dallas to serve as Vice President at a private equity firm, Veeral knew his career as it stood was not the end of the road.

Deciding to follow his entrepreneurial instincts, Veeral co-founded the J. Hilburn company, along with business partner Hil Davis, in 2006.  Structured around a business model with combined elements of e-commerce and direct sales, the company offers luxury men’s apparel direct to consumer at a significant discount from traditional retail. Utilizing a small army of “Personal Style Advisors” who measure clients to achieve a tailored fit, and circumventing the usual store overhead, J. Hilburn passes savings on to the consumer, while sourcing luxury fabrics from the same vendors as well-known brands.

Veeral credits much of the initial success of J. Hilburn to finding the right advisors, as well as the right vendors, early on. Or maybe he just knows the power of a man in a well-tailored shirt.

1.   Fashion is evolving as men are increasingly concerned with their appearance and how their clothes fit. Do you think a company like J. Hilburn would have been successful 15, or even 10 years ago?

The current timing is perfect for our business model for several reasons, which didn’t exist 10 years ago:

(1) American men are finally starting to care about better fitting clothes, personalized style and high quality fabrics.  The men’s apparel segment has been growing faster than women’s for the past 5 years, and tailored apparel is the leading category.

(2) Luxury brands have outsourced all their production, and this gives us the ability to source directly from the same fabric mills and manufacturers.  At the same time, luxury brands have continually marked up their prices and taken massive profits at the consumer’s expense.  So now we’re in a time where consumers want high quality goods, but are less willing to pay the absurd markups.  Since we sell direct, we deliver luxury apparel at half the price of traditional retail stores.

(3) The emergence of Dell, Amazon and Zappos prove that consumers will shop online.  Our unique model of direct sales as well as ecommerce gives us a direct relationship with our customers, and saves guys from having to go to the mall.  Once we have a customer’s measurements, they can go online and design custom shirts and pants as well as purchase sweaters, belts and cufflinks.  J. Hilburn offers the best elements of value, customer service and convenience.

2.  How did you learn the basics of the fashion industry and what more would you like to learn?

Both Hil Davis, my business partner, and I started our careers in investment banking, so the intricacies of fashion, retail, technology and business operations are all new to us.  We did a lot of research and sought advice from knowledgeable people, so that contributed to our ability to launch our custom shirt program.  Since then, we’ve been able to attract incredible talent that has proven experience, such as our VP of Product Development – Jon Patrick – who has 10+ years creating menswear for Polo Ralph Lauren.  We still have a lot to learn, and our primary goal for 2010 is to develop signature product that defines us as a luxury brand.

3.  Has your company vision changed at all since receiving venture capital?

From day 1, Hil and I have always believed that we can fundamentally change the retail world and build an world-class company.  Venture capital funding enabled us to accelerate our business plan and spend behind product development, ecommerce and infrastructure.  So while our vision has always been the same, we now have the capital resources to execute on all the strategic initiatives that will build the brand and grow our market share.

4.  What do you think men appreciate more about your business: the product or the service?

I think they appreciate both – what guy wants to go to the mall, spend twice as much money, and get clothes that don’t fit well? Our products deliver luxury at unmatched pricing and our style advisors provide both convenience as well as fashion advice.

5.  Why do men find it so difficult to piece together an outfit?

Men aren’t able to visualize as well as women, and most guys don’t want to spend the time preparing outfits.  So we train our style advisors to help guys pick the right colors, patterns and looks for their lifestyle.  Additionally, our website will feature tools and content to help men piece together outfits.  Currently, our customers can design custom shirts online, and see that shirt in real-time (just like building a car online).  We’re currently expanding that technology to suggest additional items, such as matching pants, belts and cufflinks, and then put it all together in the custom apparel builder so they can see the whole outfit on the screen.

6.  What do you enjoy most about owning your own business?

I never feel like I’m ‘working’.  We have a very unique business model that’s never been done before, so I enjoy the challenge of building the company and seeing it come together every day.  Additionally, I think our corporate team as well as our style  advisors really enjoy being part of J. Hilburn, and it’s a great feeling to know you’re making a difference in someone else’s life.  One of our style advisors once told me: “J. Hilburn gave me and my family the opportunity to dream again” – that’s pretty powerful.

7. Describe the person who would best complement both your life and your business.

Someone who is intelligent, confident and has a sense of humor.  Someone whose willingness to take calculated risks is matched by their ability  to dream with me.  Most importantly, she should build my strengths and complement my weaknesses.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

In 10 years, I think J. Hilburn will be synonymous with renowned brands like Ralph Lauren and Zegna. By then, we should have seasoned executives running the company, so I look forward to spending my time building our brand and working with our style advisors.

Veeral’s Bio:

Veeral Rathod is the President and co-Founder of J. Hilburn, a luxury men’s apparel company based in Dallas, Texas.  J. Hilburn brings luxurious, personalized men’s apparel to the market at affordable prices through a combination of Personal Style Advisers and an elegant e-commerce site.  Prior to founding J. Hilburn, Veeral Rathod was a Vice President at Cogent Partners where he was responsible for sourcing and executing private equity transactions. He also spent two years at Credit Suisse First Boston in the technology mergers and acquisitions group in San Francisco.  Veeral earned a BA in International Relations and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania.  He is an avid car enthusiast, a Dallas Cowboys fan, and enjoys traveling.

Want to connect with Veeral? Follow him on Facebook!

Christine Marchuska, Founder of C. Marchuska

Looking for a sexy new look that won’t break the bank or the environment? Christine Marchuska, Founder of eco-friendly fashion line c. marchuska, along with business partner Brooke Bresnan, may have just the combination you’re looking for.

Born and raised in upstate New York, Christine received her undergraduate degree from Cornell and went on to pursue a career in finance working in New York City for Morgan Stanley.  Successful, but unfulfilled, Christine began looking for a way to put her love of fashion to work and delved deeply into sewing and fashion classes based in and around New York’s garment district. When Wall Street layoffs made the rounds in 2008, Christine fell back on her new-found knowledge, and eco-friendly fashion line c. marchuska was born.

With the addition of a professional fashion designer along the way, as well as business partner Brooke, the c. marchuska line continues to focus on sustainability (primarily using bamboo fabrics sourced domestically), urban design, a moderate price-point, and giving back through charitable contributions.

And in case you’re wondering what c. marchuska’s hand-dyed scarves can do for your love life, just take a look at their advertisement…

(yes, you’re going to buy one after watching)

1.  Give us a brief description of your line and how it stands apart from other eco-friendly fashion.

c. marchuska is an eco-friendly clothing line by Christine Marchuska and Brooke Bresnan, which provides chic and sustainable clothing at affordable prices. Manufactured in New York City, the clothing is designed to embody versatility throughout different trends and seasons in order to stay true to the sustainable fashion mantra of producing less waste. The sophisticated clothing with green benefits is a perfect match for the socially conscious woman who doesn’t want to sacrifice style, price, or comfort to help save the planet.

2.  Fashion design and finance are dramatically different career paths. What appeal does each of them have for you?

Finance and fashion are dramatically different, but are both actually also very much the same in the sense that both industries are constantly changing.  Thus, both provide for a challenging environment that keeps us continually learning and trying to adapt to evolving consumer or financial markets.

3.  Have you ever felt held back because you don’t have a traditional fashion background?

Well, Brooke actually started out in the creative/design world when she was younger.  I have also always had a passion for drawing and art.  However, when it comes to design, we knew we needed to utilize true fashion designers who could translate our vision into a reality.  We always come up with ideas and the looks we want to capture, but then rely on our design team to make our vision come to life.

4.  What method of approaching retailers has been most successful in terms of convincing them to carry your line?

I think the best method has been Brooke and I contacting stores on our own.  A close mentor and friend of ours once told us – no one is going to be able to sell your clothes the way you can, because it is your line and you know it inside and out.  Although we are looking for new showrooms for representation for upcoming seasons, we still like to hit the pavement and knock on doors ourselves.  It is all part of having a line that we really believe in.

5.  You decided to go back to a “real job” while continuing to work on your business. How have your co-workers reacted?

I did go back, while Brooke is 100% focused on the business.  My co-workers admire and support what I am trying to do.  I give 110% to both my day job and my business, which does not make for much of a social life, but it is what I have to do right now.  I grew up watching my parents constantly work between their day jobs and businesses so this really is the norm for me.

6.  You described your family as being very entrepreneurial. Was it always in the back of your mind to start a business?

From the age of 5, I was always starting businesses with my older brother, Justin.  We admired our parents and wanted to imitate them.  So, I guess it wasn’t that much of a shock that I would eventually start my own business when the right opportunity and business partner came along.

7.  Describe the person who would best complement both your life and your business.

Well, I would say he would have to be understanding in terms of how stressful it can be to be an entrepreneur.  Generally I am drawn to people who are supportive and can de-stress me when need be, ultimately letting me know that everything is going to be okay in terms of business and life.

8.  Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see Brooke and I ruling the world   (joking)  I see Brooke and I having a global business where we are able to give a large percentage of proceeds back to all of the organizations we believe in.

Christine’s Bio:

Christine Marchuska was born and raised in upstate New York. After graduating from Cornell University, Christine moved to Manhattan to pursue a career in finance. In April 2008 the credit markets took a turn for the worst and restructuring on Wall Street was inevitable. It was time for a change and Christine focused in on her entrepreneurial roots.

By November 2008, cmarchuska was born and now Christine’s time is spent scouring through the garment district comparing buttons and fabric blends. Christine’s career as a financial analyst has prepared her for the challenges of developing a new line, but it is her passion for fashion that makes cmarchuska an exciting newcomer in 2009!

Want to connect with Christine? Follow her on Twitter and Facebook!

Joe Sale, Creator of the iTie

Is your tie on straight? If it’s over your shoulder, dipped in your soup, or blowing in the wind, you didn’t buy it from Joe Sale. The 31 year-old Florida native created the world’s first necktie that stays perfectly in place during any activity. Yes, even upside down (if that tends to happen to you at work.)

A former account executive for a Fortune 500 company, Joe lost his job in August of 2008. The following day, he went to his lawyer’s office and filed a patent for The iTie, the invention Joe had been working on (and wearing) in his spare time. By November of 2008, the product website was up and the iTie was on its way. Thanks to aggressive marketing and PR efforts, the iTie quickly achieved consistent online sales, media attention, and even had a TV mention by Conan O’Brien-the first of many celebrities Joe hopes to reach.

The iTie. Perfect for your next trip to Chicago, soup-tasting, or office melee. Because you never know when your employees may try to hang you upside down.

1. Does having a straight tie really matter? Wearing a necktie will always be a status symbol that conveys a certain level of distinction and authority. I can’t take someone seriously when their tie is over their shoulder, flipped over or tucked into their shirt. Why would you buy a tie, at often over $200 a piece, for it only to make you look less professional? Now you can wear The iTie and never have to worry about it.

2. You have some incredible sales footage with Billy Mays. Tell us how that came about.

It was really a matter of great timing and utilizing my professional network. I am a member of many entrepreneur and networking groups and received an Email notifying me of a casting call for Discovery Channel’s “Pitchmen”. The next day, I was doing handstands (to show how The iTie stays in place) and knocking over Billy Mays. They were impressed with me and offered to make a short video that I could use on my website. Billy was awesome!

3. Do you have any plans to expand beyond the necktie? (What else would you like to keep straight?)

I am always thinking of new ideas and I write them down (I can’t tell you how many ideas I have thought of, but I can tell you the ones I have written down!). Once I have the time and resources I will start on the best of those ideas. Stay tuned….this is only the beginning of SALE VENTURES!

4. What celebrity or public figure would you most like to see wearing an iTie and why?

It would have to be President Obama. I have pictures of him (on my facebook) with his tie over his shoulder and always see him in the news with his tie out of place. I think it would be amazing if he wore a few and actually mentioned it. That would reinforce his emphasis on entrepreneurship. Then he could order thousands of iTies for the Secret Service!

5. Would Americans be more productive if men still wore neckties to work?  Do you worry the focal point of your business will someday become extinct?

50 million neckties are sold in America every year…last year, none of them were iTies. There is plenty of market share to be had, remember The iTie does more than every tie out there. The necktie will never become extinct, not in my lifetime. Until they stop making suits and dress shirts, there will be ties…correction, there will be iTies!

6. As an experienced salesperson, is it more difficult pitching for your small business than it was for a Fortune 500 company, or do you feel more confident in selling your own product?

There is nobody that knows more about The iTie than me and nobody can sell it better (even though it speaks for itself). I have always enjoyed sales. Regardless of what you sell, if you believe in it and are passionate about it, people will buy it. If your product or service exceeds expectations, your customers will turn into a sales force for you.

7. Describe the person who would best complement your life and your business.

Someone who understands the constraints and demands that go along with starting/running a company. There is a lot of pressure to succeed. Like a relationship, there has to be a solid foundation to build on. Success in life and in relationships takes a lot of hard work, dedication, flexibility and patience…do you know anyone?

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself being happily married to my wife. Will have two kids Clarence and Summer, then we will have the whole Sale family! Really, who knows? If I had a crystal ball, I wouldn’t need to be an entrepreneur.

Joe’s Bio

Born and raised in Tampa, Florida, Joe graduated from Florida State University with a degree in Sports Management and was a member of the Sigma Chi fraternity. Throughout college, he played baseball, football, golf and volleyball, and continues to plays golf on a regular basis. After college, he moved to Boston where he worked at Cheers (yes, I know your name) and has sold everything from car stereos, shoes, life insurance, real estate, technology consulting, and everything in between.

Joe started The iTie after realizing there had to be a better way to wear ties. Wearing a tie every day working for a Fortune 500 company, Joe would see hundreds of people a day with their tie out of place. He started making prototypes of The iTie in his spare time and wore them to work where the few people he trusted to show it to loved the idea. After losing his job in August of 2008, Joe filed the patent within a week, got a website up in November and has never looked back.  He currently lives in Tampa with his yellow lab named Porter.

Want to connect with Joe? Follow him on Twitter and Facebook! You can also check out his special Private Collection here.

Jody Cohen, Founder of Cosmoholics Cosmetics

Remember the girl in 7th grade who got caught wearing red lipstick to school? OK, we all remember that girl, but what about the girl whose mother encouraged her to wear red lipstick? That girl, if you were lucky enough to know her then, was Jody Cohen, the now 27 year-old lip gloss maven and Founder of Cosmoholic Cosmetics.

Growing up, Jody learned everything there was to know about cosmetics from her mother, a working make-up artist. After working as a make-up artist herself, and then a style consultant for the Today Show, Jody moved on to retail. Using her combined skill sets, Jody then embarked on a new venture in hopes of solving a nagging cosmetics problem: how to get pigment and shine from one lip product.

The result?  Cosmoholics lip gloss, a non-sticky, pigment-filled lip product that offers the best qualities of both lipstick (pigment), and lip gloss (shine). As an added bonus, she even threw in a lip repairing element. Now 16 months after it’s official launch, Cosmoholics lip gloss can be found in dozens of retail stores, online, and on lips nationwide.

In fact, it’s probably even found it’s way to the 7th grade.

1.  With a background in beauty and fashion, was it challenging learning to be a successful salesperson?  Where did you pick up the business side of retail?

I was born a sales woman! It’s not a skill that one can really acquire.. you either love it and are good at it or you’re not. I’ve worked many sales jobs in cosmetics and fashion in the past and have a true passion for it. My father is an entrepreneur and I learned a great deal from him and as the Retail Recruiter for Scoop NYC stores.

2.  What is it like competing with the cosmetics “giants” who have unlimited access to research and development?

It’s a challenge, but one that I embrace and use as motivation to build the Cosmoholic brand. I strive to create innovative products that aren’t currently on the market and truly believe that Liquid Lipstick is unique.

3.  How have you used your status as a smaller company to work for you as far as marketing and PR?

As far as marketing, up to this point, I have been focusing on boutiques and specialty stores, not department stores. Women always make excuses to buy more lip gloss and Liquid Lipstick are great easy add ons. As far as PR, A few great celebrities become fans early on and that always helps. Beyond that, I have a great product and a great PR agency so that part has been easy.

4. The branding aspect of Cosmoholic immediately caught my eye . What type of response or feeling from the consumer were you hoping to achieve?

I wanted the customer to be immediately drawn to Liquid Lipstick. The bright yellow packaging is fun with a girly vintage feel and women often buy for themselves and as gifts.

5. How important have your connections in the beauty industry (as well as media) been to your successful launch, and what would your advice be to someone without these contacts?

To be honest, I don’t have that many contacts. My past experience has given me credibility and that has helped me more than any contact has. I advise anyone who’s starting a business to be passionate about their product and have no fear!! BE FEARLESS.. and if you’re not, fake it! Persistence is key.

6. Has being a single entrepreneur helped you or hurt you in business and why?

Regardless of your status, starting a company is extremely time consuming and challenging. Being single, I’ve been able to dedicate a lot more time and have a flexible travel schedule which is a huge contributor to my success.  It’s a 24-7, 7 days a week job!

7. Describe the ideal person who would complement both your life and your business.

The ideal person, among many things, would be independent, self sufficient, understanding and supportive of me and my business.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Cosmoholic Cosmetics strives to create beauty products that are innovative, convenient and problem solving all while keeping the everyday woman’s wants and needs in mind. In 10 years,  I hope that Cosmoholic Cosmetics will have additional products and will hold a major spot in the industry.

Jody’s Bio:

Jody started her career in beauty as a makeup artist in New York City, where she worked in TV (as a style consultant for the “Today Show”), in live events, and in magazines.  She knows retail well, too, having worked at Scoop NYC, a high-end, multi-location clothing store, where she fell in love with retail and the business behind the beauty industry.

Jody figured if she could marry her passions- makeup and retail- surely she could marry lipstick and lip gloss.  The idea got addictive, and after working with a team of chemists to create this unique new product, Jody is proud to present the result of her obsession… Cosmoholic Cosmetics, a new line of “liquid lipstick” that goes on like lip gloss but has the real, deep, beautiful pigment of a lipstick.

Want to connect with Jody? Follow her on Facebook or contact Amanda Meyer of Bella Public Relations, Inc. at 212.868.8183.

Kim Overton, Creator of the Spibelt

Why is Kim Overton dancing?

Not just because her company, Overton Enterprises, has sold tens of thousands of her patent-pending SpiBelt personal carriers since their launch in 2007.  Not because she’s been featured on CNN, CNBC, The Today Show, and been asked to show off her impossibly-toned legs in the pages of Cosmopolitan.

No, the real reason Kim is dancing is because every day at 6pm, she turns off her computer and turns on her life. A true believer in work/life balance, Kim makes time to enjoy family and friends by delegating what she can and leaving the rest for tomorrow.

And, if tomorrow is a typical day for Kim, it will probably include a little dancing.

1. Carriers for personal items have been available for years.  Explain why SPIbelt is an improvement on products already on the market.

This belt is a comfortable and discreet way to carry small personal items without bulkiness or risking looking like you’re wearing a fanny bag.

2. You are one of few entrepreneurs who sets a specific work schedule and sticks to it. Was it difficult to strike that balance in the first stages of your start-up?

For sure. When you first start your business, it’s easy to work until the sun goes down, and begin again before the sun goes up. It’s almost always necessary to work a ton when you’re starting your business. But as time goes on and you’re able to delegate, it’s important for your physical and psychological health to draw the line in the sand for when to turn work off. When I lived in NYC, the rhythm of the city seems to operate on 9-10 hour work days, so it was natural to work late and go have dinner with your friends after work at 8 or 9pm. Now that I’m back home, I shut down as 6pm, regardless.

3. How has being a young, attractive female contributed to (or detracted from) your success so far?  Have you ever not been taken seriously in a business relationship?

Most of my sales are done through reps, so gender doesn’t usually have a role in our interaction with clients. The times that I do notice a shift in a people’s tone or body language is at trade shows, when someone interested in doing business asks me to speak with the owner. When I smile and say “I’m the owner”, I have noticed a raise in their eyebrows (only with men, women are elated), almost to say, “hmm, interesting, I didn’t realize the owner could be you”.

4. What was it that drew you to personal training after 9/11?

As with most entrepreneurs, I am not a good employee, and I do not enjoy office politics and I always felt way too creative to be in a cubicle. So when I was laid off after 9/11, I embraced the new beginning and tried something totally different from what I had been doing, but something that gave me freedom and was rewarding on a personal level. I resisted training, but when I gave it a try and met so many wonderful people, I fell in love with it.

5. From CNN to the Today Show, you have received an incredible amount of media exposure. What are your secrets to gaining attention, and how much did major media contribute to your initial growth?

My first passion was dancing and singing, and being on stage. Reaching out to the media, to me, was a part of who I am. I had a product, I wanted them to feature it, I researched how to get their attention. Mix that with a bit of a prayer and go.

6. Do you feel being single has been important in allowing you freedom to focus on your business?

I hesitate to say that being single is how I’ve reached our current status, only because I don’t want to come across to say that being married or a parent or involved will hinder anyone’s pursuit to success, but I will say that if I did have kids at this time, I doubt I’d have as much time, money and energy to focus on the launch of my company as I have.

7. Describe the ideal person who would complement both your life and your business.

The ideal person would be a man who is fiercely successful in his field of choice, and as equally passionate about living a healthy and balanced family life (at the same time, this person is okay with hearing my random business ideas at any given time – my inspiration knows no off-hours!). Having lived around the world, and running my third business, I greatly appreciate being able to chat with someone who knows and can appreciate the challenges that come with running a business while maintaining a healthy family life.

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

Adventure and educational traveling with my family in a foreign country, checking email every now and then to see how my companies (I plan to have a few) are doing back home.

Kim’s Bio:

Kim Overton founded SPIbelt in 2007. She previously co-founded a tech company in NYC providing back end development for database driven websites. She worked as a personal trainer and nutrition consultant for 5 years in NYC and Austin, Texas before founding SPIbelt.

Want to connect with Kim? Follow her on Twitter and Facebook!

Ruta Fox, CEO of Divine Diamonds

No matter what your business, everyone wants to get to OPRAH.  I finally met someone who has.

Ruta Fox, CEO and Founder of Divine Diamonds started her journey in the Fall of 2000 when a friend expressed interest in a diamond ring Oprah was wearing on her pinkie.  Knowing her flight attendant friend couldn’t afford Oprah’s exact ring, she shopped around and found a good deal on a similar ring from a wholesale jeweler in NYC.  Within the next few weeks, she began buying and selling more of the rings, driving to her friends’ offices and adding a small markup to earn a profit (a former freelance writer, Ruta was unemployed after suffering from arthritis aggravated by hours at the computer).  The rings, which she branded as the “Ah Ring” for “Available and Happy”, were selling faster than she could buy them.

Of course, any good story has to include a fairy godmother.  In this case, it was a Psychic.  A long-time friend of Ruta’s, psychic Bea Marot helped guide every turn leading to the successful launch of the business, including the key turning point-OPRAH.  A friend of Bea’s had just started a job with O Magazine and Bea encouraged Ruta to get a meeting.  The editors were impressed.  Better yet, Oprah was impressed.  Within six weeks, Ruta started a website, formed an S Corp, developed marketing materials, and opened an 800-number, all in preparation for inclusion in the March 2001 edition of the O List, just a few months away.

Attention from the Oprah recognition created as much turbulence in the business as success, as Ruta found herself unable to source enough rings, or even pay for them.  Again following Bea’s advice, she decided to look for a US factory and found just the right connection in the very least place she expected, from a blind-date she met on Match.com.   With fate on her side, and with continued support from her family and friends, she went on to make Divine Diamonds the successful company it is today.

1.  How has your life changed since the time you bought and sold your first ring?

Well, as a former freelance writer, I’ve never had to take another writing job.  I was also given the opportunity to be a speaker at Harvard Business School and Brown University at their entrepreneurial events.

Want to connect with Ruta?  Follow her on Facebook!

Craig Wolfe, Founder of Celebriducks

Still waiting for Snoop Dogg to mail you close-ups of his cornrows?  Craig Wolfe isn’t.  In fact, the 56 year-old Founder of CelebriDucks received photos of just about every angle of the rapper, insuring his namesake rubber duck was the perfect likeness.  Right down to his famous braids.

Craig went through college like many kids, not really knowing what he wanted to do in life.  Then, after falling in love with a vintage Mickey Mouse animation still, he started the company “Name That Toon” in 1986, buying and selling animation art.  Sales of commercial animation artwork by big names like Coca-Cola  and Budweiser followed, but before long, Craig was working on his next big idea.

Starting with Betty Boop in 1998, and with Craig’s daughter doing all of the original artwork, he began creating his new line of famous duckies under the company name “CelebriDucks”.  The real push forward happened in 2002 with the Alan Iverson duck (complete with tattoos), beginning a long and profitable relationship with the world of professional sports.

Never star-struck, Craig routinely turns down invitations to celebrity events, award shows, and even to the Playboy Mansion.  Personally, I think visiting the grotto would be awesome.  Especially if it was filled with little Snoops.

1. Your CelebriDucks are made with incredible detail.  What steps are involved in the manufacturing process from idea to package?

We start with a number of conceptual drawings to capture the look we are going for.  Then once approved, we move to the sculpting phase.  Once we make revisions there we are ready to make our first wax mold.  From there we go to pre-production metal molds leading to the final production molds plus spray mask molds for painting.  Then we are finally able to begin production which takes about another week.  All told it can take us up to six weeks to two months minimum with each new style.  We have spent up to six months and longer on some of them!

2. What is the permission/licensing process like to use celebrity images, and how long does it usually take?

That can really vary.  I don’t think it’s ever taken less than a month or two, and sometimes it has taken us up to ten years.  It’s quite a process to say the least which is probably why no-one else does what we do.

3. Have you ever walked away from a design because the celebrity involved was too difficult to negotiate with?

It’s more rare, but it has happened.  I don’t think it would be appropriate to mention names, but we have left some deals on the table.  Most of the times it was just that we were unable to come to a financial agreement suitable to both parties.  But there has been a very few times that it just too difficult working with the client.  But that really is rare.

4. Do you take baths?  If so, who do you take with you?

You know, honestly, I’m a shower person.  I kind of like the quickness factor.  But I always keep one of our Pink Flamingos in the bathroom for that Kitsch effect.

5. You have certainly carved out your own niche in the world.  As a child, what did you dream of growing up to be?

I always knew I wanted to make rubber ducks of celebrities.  OK, seriously, people thought I might become a lawyer, but I lacked any interest or real talent for it actually.  I graduated college having no idea whatsoever as to what I would be doing.  If I didn’t feel passion for something I couldn’t move forward.  But when I saw my first original hand-drawn Mickey Mouse drawing, I was captivated and soon thereafter started my animation company.

6. What do you like best about owning your own business?

Oh God, everything.  I love the freedom and the creativity of it all.  I love choosing to work with wonderful people and having totally flexible hours.  You couldn’t put me in a cubicle at this point, not that I haven’t worked in one.  But I’ve really come to deeply value the joy of doing something I really love and creating a brand from scratch.

7. Describe the ideal person who would complement both your life and your business.

Hmm….well on a practical level, I feel I’m working with people who absolutely complement what I do and I really appreciate having the opportunity to have them in my life.  I think as far as a female companion, it would defnitely be someone who “got” me.  You know, enjoyed the whimsical and creative nature of what I do.  See, I love to create….first it was the animation artwork, then the ducks, and I’m also working in my spare time on an album as I have a studio in my house.  So anyone I would spend time with would have to appreciate these kinds of things.  And ideally, myself being a Buddhist, they would have to have just a bit of an interest in things other than money, business, etc.  But most important, they would have to love chocolate!

8. Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

My dream would see CelebriDucks established as a major brand with or without my running it.  I would definitely see my album being finished.  And I like to think there would be more than enough money to help do some good in the world through helping to support non-profit organizations that I want to do more for.  And ideally, I would also be perhaps a little wiser.

Craig’s Bio

Craig Wolfe grew up in Millburn, N.J. and later graduated from Hobart William Smith Colleges in upstate New York.  Over the years, his company Name That Toon, became the largest publisher of advertising/animation art having established the first ever animation art lines for Coca-Cola, Anheiser Busch, M&M/Mars, Pillsbury, Nike, etc.  Over time, he developed CelebriDucks as a side project, creating rubber ducks of those he felt were some of the greatest icons of film, music, history, and sports. Eventually he sold off the animation and the company became all ducks!

At this point, Craig has produced CelebriDucks for the NBA, Major League Baseball, the NHL, NASCAR, NCAA collegiate mascots as well as  famous people such as Elvis Presley, Marilyn Monroe, The Blues Brothers, KISS, Barack Obama, etc.  To date he has created over 200 CelebriDucks and pioneered a whole new collectible.  Celebriducks have been voted one of the top 100 gifts by Entertainment Weekly, featured on The Tonight Show and CBS Evening Magazine, and featured in hundreds of magazines and newspapers, and on television shows around the world.

Want to connect with Craig?  Follow him on Twitter or email him!