Entrepreneurs & Artists: Like Fine Wine

I believe that great artists and entrepreneurs get better with age. Kinda like fine wine.

The amount of wisdom accumulated along the entrepreneurial road is invaluable. One of my favorite quotes is by Ernest Hemingway. “In order to write about life first you must live it." This is truth. No one can truly speak about the entrepreneurial journey, unless one has lived it.

This is one of the many reasons that I wanted to do a series on amazing individuals who have the entrepreneurial, artistic, and creative spirit and spark; who have persevered through extreme and not so extreme challenges; and have risen to the occasions presented. Life is filled with unlimited and amazing possibilities, and entrepreneurs and artists embrace this, and live in the utmost of the possibilities of life.

This interview is with Valerie Perez, Founder of Wrap Up by VP, an amazing, unique, luxurious, and exclusive collection of robes, wraps, and towels. The fabrics are soft, comfortable, exquisite, and luscious; and once someone experiences and wears one of Valerie's designs, it is hard to wear anything else in the robe/wrap category and space.

Hope you enjoy this interview, it is filled with wisdom, grace, amazing heart, love, and laughter.

#likefinewine

#entrepreneurship

#possibilities

Me: We have known each other for many years, and are so blessed to have reconnected with each other. You and your company have so gracefully evolved.

As we chatted a bit before the interview, many people think entrepreneurship is some 'fairy tale,' easy life. I am not sure where people get this perception from, but any entrepreneur I know (and I know many) will say how challenging it is, and does indeed require a certain mindset, discipline, resiliency, ability to flow and pivot, as well as the ability to stay focused on a mission and vision.

I know you started Wrap Up in a tent in your friend's back yard, and it has grown beautifully into a top notch amazing brand. You know the 'art' of the hustle and hard work, and what it takes to build, maintain, and grow a brand. Any thoughts on this 'fairy tale' entrepreneurship that seems to flood our society and culture?

Valerie: It is hard work. Nothing is 'easy peasy.' Everything is here for what one wants to accomplish. It takes a strong power of belief. There is nothing else I wanted to do more, and I did not waver. With hard work, opportunities come. The right people at the right time just seem to show up. People do want to help, and the universe delivers the right people at the right time

My Takeaway:

I agree with Valerie 150%. The universe does deliver the right people at the right time when one's intentions are pure and good. I do think this is one of the core principles (of many) of life. With hard work and good intentions, the right people do show up at the right time, at whatever stage of your path you are on.

#hardwork

#donotwaver

#righttimerightplace

#rightpeople

#clearintention

#powerofintentions

Me: How do you remain so focused on your vision? I have seen many entrepreneurs start out with a clear focus and vision, and somewhere along the way, they lose their focus, and try to become 'everything to everyone.' Somehow they lose the control of their own narrative, and this I do believe leads to a downfall of a business endeavor and can ultimately lead to the loss of passion which was why they started in the first place. You are in a 'luxury' type of space, and you have never wavered from this. You have also remained steadfast to your mission to create soft, comfortable, beautiful, fashionable robes and wraps that are of the utmost quality. Were there times when others were telling you to go more 'main stream'?

Valerie: When I started out I wanted to create something that had no sizes and no seasons. I used to go to the gym, and the towels would fall off my body, so I wanted to create a shower wrap for the beach or for the gym that looked like a dress.

Everything is in the small and little things. The details. I do not want my brand to be everywhere. I would not even know how to do a cheaper type line, and I am a perfectionist. It is really a love story between me and my company. I use the best inks, amazing fabrics, etc... I am in love with the people in my company. Maria is the first woman I hired to teach me to do sewing, and it is 18 years later!

#uniqueness

#entrepreneurialvision

#entrepreneurialmission

Me: Let's talk a bit about inspiration, peace, and the soul. I know you went through a period where you felt like you were on 'autopilot' which felt 'suffocating' to you. When entrepreneurs and artists get to this point, they usually do a lot of soul searching, and ultimately pivot into a new transformative and exciting direction. How did you deal with challenging times, and do you have any advice for others going through something similar?

Valerie: Look, without faith there is nothing. Faith gets you by everyday of your life.

My Takeaway:

As Valerie says: "Without faith, there is nothing." There really is nothing else to be added to this.

#faith

#setbacks

#entrepreneurialhardships

Me: You are one of the most lovely, gracious, and appreciative women that I know in business. I think many women can indeed learn a thing or two (or three) from you. What advice would you give younger women specifically, who are just starting out in their careers?

Valerie: It is important to believe in yourself, and what you are doing. If you are on the right track, don't listen to anyone. What you put 200% into will be a success.

My Takeaway:

Never despise small beginnings, and never go off track based upon the opinions and/or judgments of others.

#believeinyourself

#stayontrack

#staythecourse

Me: Let's talk a bit about introverts. You and I are both a bit introverted. Introverts can be confusing to others. You just got back from the Live Love Spa Show in Las Vegas. Most, if not all people, think that individuals like us who go to trade shows are extroverts. How do you balance being an introvert and being 'out there' with associates, colleagues, and clients?

#introverts

#entrepreurialintroverts

Valerie: This show was so amazing, it is even hard to put into words. There was such a beautiful energy. There was great energy in our booth and there was such a deep sense of connection with people there. I love connecting with others, and then on a business level. It is all about human connection.

My Takeaway:

Valerie speaks my language. Energy speaks way louder than words, especially for introverts. People feel when they are appreciated, valued, cared for, and truly listened to.

#humanconnection

#introverts

Me: Last question, do you have any favorite books?

Valerie: One of my favorite books - 'The Artist Way.' My husband and I did this together. There is something about committing and writing in the pages that can help one to understand more and see more things. It is something between you and you, and by writing, one can become more focused.

My Takeaway:

'The Artist Way,' by Julia Cameron, is one of my FAVS! For anyone looking for greater clarity, self knowledge, awareness, and direction, this is a gem!

#morningpages

#juliacameron

My Final Takeaway:

A great tag line for Valerie would be "delivering love." Her company is a true "love story." All her designs and creations are infused with love; those around her love working with her; and the people who wear her collections love them! What can be better? A triple threat in the "love department" of entrepreneurship and business!

Many times, I say that the "brand" is the person, and not the matter. In this case, the brand is the person and the matter!

#lovestory

#entrepreneurlove

#deliveringlove

For more information on Valerie and Wrap Up by VP, please check out:

https://wrapupbyvp.com/

Concierge – At Your Service

Featured Spotlight - Alexandra Yarborough

(Senior Concierge)

I met Alexandra many years ago at La Costa Resort in Carlsbad – now it is Omni La Costa. As I have been doing these interviews, I thought Alexandra would be a perfect fit for my series on workplace wholeness and workplace wellness.

As mentioned in some of my previous interviews, I want to shine a light on those who are positive, engaging, present, as well as “whole;” as they bring their unique perspectives to their work. In the times we are in, some in the hospitality industry can feel “pressured” and possibly “over worked,” but more so than not, most are super happy in their positions, and have excelled within the brands they work for. Not only that, they are appreciated and valued by their employers.

What is it about them as individuals? And what does it also say about the companies they work for that encourage and appreciate this kind of talent?

Our work is supposed to be a place where we can be ourselves, and whatever the “job” or “profession,” we can all be healers for one another by being truly present, and engaged
in how we interact with one another.

It is my hope that we can all learn and grow by engaging in meaningful conversations such as these that can benefit the whole.

My interview with Alexandra is below...


Me: How long have you been in the Hospitality/Spa arena?


Alexandra: I started with La Costa in June 2011, and now it is Omni, so I have been working at this location 7 years.

My take away:


I met Alexandra when the Resort was La Costa Resort, a KSL Resort, and even back then I knew she was someone special, and knew that she was going to thrive in the hospitality space. Hospitality is about people and service. Alexandra is defiantly a people person, who is not only heart centered and present in all that she does and says, but is also super organized and efficient. This blend makes for a spectacular fit for any team at a Resort.

#hospitality

#service

#being integrated at work

#workplace wholeness


Me: Did you have prior experience in concierge services before getting hired?

Alexandra: I had no prior experience. I went to a job fair here at La Costa and got a call back. I was interviewed, and then hired in a “seasonal” concierge position. Once the season was over, I was asked if I wanted to stay and they changed my position to full time concierge.

My take away:


Being a people person, does not involve any “prior experience” – it is the experience of demonstration. Those who genuinely love connecting with others have the ability to be present in another’s presence and are here to serve – there is no “training” for these skills. These are the best types of individuals for companies to hire, as these are the leaders and team players. One can lead and also be part of a winning team. Organizational details and specialized “tasks” can be taught. Thriving companies look for people like Alexandra.

#connection

#presence

#leaders

#team players

Me: I notice that the concierge interacts with every department. How have you been able to master this role?


Alexandra: I embrace the fact that I work as a team with other departments. My main point of contact is with the front office, bell stand, In room dining team, and IT.; but my role can be seen as a kind of liaison among all departments. I have been really good at connection and creating relationships and alliances with other key departments such as Sales, Marketing, Food and Beverage, and Accounting. I take the time to get to know the individuals in each department and love creating and building relationships.

My take away:


The value of relationships and connection is crucial – especially in the work environment. We spend so much of our time as well as our energy in our “jobs” or “positions” that if we are not connecting with others in our work environment, then this should be a call for concern. Those who take the time to work with those with whom they can connect with on both a personal and professional level, lead richer lives, and are generally more fulfilled and content in their work.

#workplace wholeness

#connection

#relationship building

Me: So do you have a favorite part of your job?


Alexandra: My favorite part is connecting with different departments to really shift the dynamics of work culture. When someone new comes on board, I make it a point to introduce myself, and maintain and build from there. I like to develop rapport with others.

My second favorite part of my job is service and creating an exceptional type of experience for each guest – whether it is in person or on the phone.

#work culture

#workplace wholeness

My take away:


As many industries are wanting their workers and employees to become more “robotic” and mechanic in their day to day responsibilities, it is great to know that there are those companies who value individual talents, gifts, and perspectives. The whole is about the sum of its parts... so those who embrace the uniqueness of its parts, make for a thriving work culture. It is awesome that Alexandra can bring her uniqueness, flair, and perspectives to her role, as she is definitely a key part of the overall team.

#workplace wholeness

#company culture

#uniqueness

Me: Since you interact with so many guests, do you ever have any “difficult” ones, and if so, how do you handle these guests?


Alexandra: Most of our guests are a joy and a delight! If there is a “difficult” guest, sometimes I will take a step away from my desk, and just breathe. I remind myself that people generally bring in who they are and where they are at in life. I also remind myself that they have chosen to be “delightful” or “difficult.” For the “difficult ones,” I see this as an opportunity to build my skill set, attitude, and character. I can not take their attitude personally. I can only do my best and maintain grace and poise serving them. I am really good at being gracious, diplomatic, and flexible.

My take away:


This can be a common theme of any job or position. While most people are wonderful to work with, there can be those that are “difficult.” Whether it is a one time interaction with a guest or client, or it is a pattern with someone we work with, it is best to remember to not take it “personal.” Alexandra’s way of handling tough situations is spot on, and we can all take this in.

Me: You do so much and have so many responsibilities, are you good at asking for help when you need to?


Alexandra: Yes, I do not have a problem with asking for help or advice. I ask for help when I really need it and I am also patient when others need it. I am really good at juggling things, in general, and am good at prioritizing and delegating. I realize that I can’t be the best in all areas.

My take away:

Many of us have so much on our plates and are pulled in so many directions, it is definitely a sign of strength to be able to ask for help or advice. We are all here to contribute our uniqueness and perspectives to all we do, so if others can add a perspective or lending hand, it is always wonderful as well as appreciated on multiple levels.

Me: Two part question: How are able to be so grounded and centered ? Do you have any daily “routines?”

Alexandra: One of the most important things in life is to let people know that I see them and acknowledge them. I let people know this in my actions. I am present with what I am doing, whether face to face or on the phone. I am able to give guests my full attention.

I am most recently starting “routines” around my high time and low time of energy. I am finding my algorithm. I start my day with prayer and time in God’s Word receiving instruction and strength from Him. For ten minutes or so, before work, I visualize what my day will look like, and I set my goals for the day (personal as well). I have a visual calendar as well as use Evernote, where I prioritize most important to least important for personal, work, and my music. I like to do a journal “mind spill.” This is when I write down all that is on my mind and release.

Also, I like to walk during my lunch breaks. The one thing in my routine that is non-negotiable is my Bible time in the morning. Being in the Word gives me peace of mind. Peace is the highest priority.

My take away:

The importance of daily rituals, and finding one’s own unique flow in maintaining one’s center point is imperative, especially in the times we are in!

#daily rituals

#free flow writing

#spiritual practice.

Me: We touched on your music briefly, so let’s chat a bit more about your music, as well as what some of your other passions and interests are.


Alexandra: I enjoy UFC fights as well as love to hang out with friends. I love to go for walks on the beach and I also love to explore brief excursion to learn more about my city. I enjoy time with family, and I love to do my music. I am a songwriter. I write all my own music and sing. My stage name is Lexy Luz (Luz means light in Spanish), and you can find my music on YouTube, iTunes, and Soundcloud.

My take away:

The ability to express oneself and touch others, whether writing, speaking, singing, or rapping – is a gift as well as an art. Alexandra is definitely creative, artistic, heart centered, and present in all she does. The consciousness she brings to her work, is the same consciousness she brings to everything else in her life!

#connection

#consciousness

#content same form different.

Me: What two words sum up 2018 so far for you?


Alexandra: “Keep your eyes on Jesus” – this sums up my faith. Keep eyes on God, whatever the circumstances. Through all of my experiences, my faith has deepened, and I am very aligned in my faith and trust in Christ Alone as my source. My faith in Him guides me and leads me to be all I can be to serve others.

#faith

#trust

My take away:

Alexandra is a true demonstration of walking her talk. Her actions, words, and deeds are aligned; and her core is one of beauty, grace, and divine radiance. The glow she has and the faith, joy, and trust she radiates is extremely spectacular!

I am so blessed and grateful for this interview. Being able to share and connect with someone like Alexandra is a treat, and it is wonderful to be able to connect on many levels. It is my hope that those reading this interview can take away something that may resonate with them and their own journey.

#authenticity

#divine alignment

#beauty

#grace

#deep gratitude

For more information on Alexandra and her music, visit:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3mtZ7WRCTy0