Women in Business
Nathalie Schaus - Owner of Bäckerei Schaus
Bäckerei Schaus, founded in 1885, is now 4th generation owned by Nathalie Schaus and her partner, Kim. They focus mainly on sourdough breads & Baguettes and
combine Kim’s knowledge of baking with the original recipes from the 1800’s.
Recht, Belgium
Instagram - @baeckerei_schaus
Describe your business.
Authentic and pure. We strive to give our customers an understanding of flour and sourdough in respect to nature. We focus mainly on sourdough breads and Baguettes and combine knowledge of baking with the original recipes from the 1800’s.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
Jobs in corporate companies left me feeling empty inside. After quitting my job and traveling to different countries and meeting new people, I was inspired to do projects where I could help people in need. The idea of making money in Europe and creating our own project was a big inspiration. This idea started in 2015 in Nepal, when Kim and I arrived to a village were Kim provided water for a school. We fundraised money from friends and family to buy pipes and tanks, and Kim did all of the work to put it together. I played with the kids and talked to them and played my role. Even after this work after 5 years of travel, I still did not find inner peace and rest. The inspiration to take over the bakery was given by my dad who flew to Bali to ask us to return to Europe and restart the bakery with him! He began teaching Kim about combining modern and old wisdom of baking. (since my dad has all the knowledge from 3 generations before).
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business.
When our oven exploded (main working tool for a baker) to stay grounded and trust life. Everything will be fine!
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience.
To make my own decisions out of my heart and not let other people’s opinions distract me from my goals.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
Our work space is warm and cozy. It feels positive and makes myself and others feel happy.
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I travel outside of the village and connect with nature. Either close by in the forest or a few hours away by the sea. I also practice meditation every morning to help bring me to a positive space for the rest of the day.
What is your personal or professional motto?
Enjoy life and create something that makes you feel happy and free. Accept challenges and make the most out of it! If you don't like something in your life, change it the way you would like to have it.
What does success mean to you?
Being free and happy to create something that serves everyone. When I see people enjoying our breads and continuing to come to us for our products… that is success to me!
Danielle Boglivi-Fiori - Owner of Sweet Dani B
Artist and Cookie Designer
Asbury Park, NJ
Website - https://www.sweetdanib.com
Instagram - @sweetdanib
Describe your business in 3 sentences.
Work hard, be nice.
Spread the Love.
Life is Sweet.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
I learned about decorated cookies when I was looking for a favor for our wedding in 2001. There was a particular wedding cake cookie I loved that I saw in Martha Stewart Living. I loved the idea of giving a beautiful gift that would make people smile and then they could just eat and enjoy it and not put it on a shelf collecting dust. Although some people do put our cookies on a shelf and save them- I like them to have the option not to feel like they have to save it.
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business?
Stick with your core values and purpose. Streamline your business plan. Always go with your gut. Ask people who have been there for advice.
Always have a plan B and be flexible. As a former waitress, event designer, and someone who worked as a stylist in TV, you always have to have a plan B. Maybe you ordered pink peonies but pink roses were delivered... Maybe you planned to set a beautiful 6 top table but then they added 2 more seats... You thought someone else ordered the centerpiece and they didn't and we are live to film the segment in 4 minutes… Having an ability to pivot is everything. Especially these days.
Also hiring and building a team is so important... I always say I want people to work with me, not for me. The difference in that is that "I" becomes "our" "we" and "us" and that makes the job more rewarding for all.
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience?
I am lucky that every cookie and or cake handoff is a little success. Our goal is to spread love and make people happy. I love when people get excited about what they ordered and send us a cute note, or photos of them with their cookies or or a candle blowout or anything like that.
As "women owned" and run, I look to hire young women to work with us and train them on as many aspects of the job that they are interested in. Along the way they are learning skills like how to interact with customers and co workers, how to work well on a team, building work friendships and confidence. While spending any time working shifts with me, we chat a lot about current events, feminism and what they are up to.
We have seen 4 amazing ladies head off to college- and they all keep in touch. Our 5th high school graduate is delayed in leaving for college due to Covid so I happily kept her on staff and started giving her some more responsibilities. Us "elders" always tell the younger ladies to make good choices, have fun and learn a lot because they will be running this world one day.
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
Short answer: loving kindness meditation and super hero pose.
Long answer: I've lived a pretty solid "the journey is the destination" life so I have kind of let most things happen and taken opportunities the they have presented themselves. My biggest moment of self doubt and of fear was opening the cafe aspect of the business once we leased the cookie shop in Asbury. Pre ordered cookie favors and platters, and cookie decorating workshops are the heart of our business and the cafe was an addition that came with being in a retail space and zone. I was never comfortable with it and I believe that was reflected in its success. Covid closed our cafe in March and we will not reopen that part of the business any time soon. We are always "training the customer" to pre-order and this is now more of a focus than ever.
I think it’s important to mourn losses and sit with failures for a good period of time and then brush yourself off, note what you learned and move on. I have been hesitating on "announcing" that the cafe part of our business will not re open. I still get teary about it not working out but it has taught me a lot... (Lesson #1, always go with your gut)
Words to live by?
It has evolved from Life is Sweet to Spread the Love...
The objective of what we do is to spread love and make people happy. One of my worst qualities as a businesswoman is that I am not money driven. I am slow to billing and invoicing, people show up to pick up orders and have their cards out ready to pay and I never know what they owe me. I'm more concerned that they are happy with what they ordered and that we fulfilled their vision.
What does success mean to you?
"The meaning of life is to find your gift. The purpose of life is to give it away."
I'm so lucky that the objective of my job is to make people happy. Success in turn for me is getting to live an easy, happy life. I am a workaholic and I'm lucky that I do what I love so its not "work work" necessarily (although I do have to make payroll, pay taxes bills and rent). My main goal these days is to find the balance of working a fulfilled solid week and then take time off to spend quality time with my loved ones. Since opening the shop, I haven't quite found that balance yet but I'll get there.
Lisa Buyofsky - Owner of Lost World Creative
Jewelry Designer, Silversmith, Graphic Designer
Sea Bright, NJ
Website - www.lostworldcreative.co
Instagram - @lostworldcreative
Lost World Creative is a jewelry company inspired by the sea, the earth, and the sky. We alchemize reclaimed sterling silver into wearable art featuring semi-precious gemstones to shells found along the shore.
Our ideal client is a stylish boho woman who loves to travel the world.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
Growing up, I never gave much thought to starting a jewelry company, I would make necklaces with my sister for fun and sell them to our friends but that was the extent of it. The inspiration to become a metalsmith sparked when I joined Instagram and began following several jewelry artists. The work was so creative and different compared to other rings/jewelry I had seen in stores, and as an artist of multiple mediums I thought it would be fun to give smithing a try. I never expected to start a business as a silversmith, but a few years later here we are!
What is the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business?
Success doesn’t happen overnight, and the to-do list never ends!
What is your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience?
When it comes to Lost World Creative, I am most proud of our sustainability and ethical initiatives. Everything is made by hand by yours truly in Sea Bright, NJ, the reclaimed metal comes from NY and AZ, and most stones used are mined in the US - any that are not are mined ethically from their naturally occurring source. I work directly with other small businesses to source materials – most are hand-picked! All of the gift wrap and packaging is recyclable and compostable too. I think it is really important to care about the environment and be responsible with the resources on our earth.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
All of the work is done in my home studio, which is amazing because it gives me the flexibility to fit in a little self-care at the beginning of each day instead of rushing to commute somewhere. This could look like an early morning surf, a run with my dog, or a simple homemade iced coffee.
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
Reflection, gratitude… I look back at where I started and how far I’ve come, or I’ll imagine my younger self learning that one day I would make a living as an artist - that one really brings me home. A jump in the ocean always helps too.
Words you live by?
Be here now, get lost in the places you feel most alive.
What does success mean to you?
I believe success is a state of mind. It cannot be defined by titles, money, or anything really. We arrive at success when we wake up in the morning and live our lives doing what we love to do.
Julie De Vuyst-Leufgen - In Outside Design
Interior Designer
Belgium and Luxemburg
Website - in-outside-design.com
Instagram - @inandoutsidedesign
Describe your business in 3 sentences.
-Interior Design
-Decoration
-Home and Living
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
I was born with a sense for colors that looked beautiful together. Since my early childhood, I was able to experience styling decor in my parents flower/decoration shop. I also had enthusiasm for furniture, design and architecture which motivated me to successfully complete a degree in interior design.
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business?
It's about people creating their own home that is tailored to them and finding compromises so that they are happy and comfortable in their home.
What is your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience.
When my customers are deeply grateful for the work we do together to design and complete their dream of living.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
The before and after effect. This is my personal highlight every time!
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I think back to the things I have done well in my life. You learn from mistakes. And from experience I know that if you don't give up, you just get better!
What is your personal or professional motto? '
Choose the job you love and you won't have to work a day in your life!
What does success mean to you?
All my happiness is my family. That's all that matters… my job is the icing on the cake.
Laura Birnbohm - Laura Birnbohm Art
Painter
Uses Art as a tool for environmental awareness
Ventor, NJ
Website - msha.ke/laurabirnbohmart/
Instagram - @laurabirnbohmart
Describe your business in 3 sentences.
In hope of making a difference in the world, Laura Birnbohm Art creates educational and thought provoking artwork, combining her love for the ocean and all of its inhabitants. The ocean is a magnificent place but greatly misunderstood. Through the use of acrylics and watercolors she highlights in her artwork the beauty that she sees and cherishes.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
I have been creating art my whole life. It wasn’t until about 5 years ago that I felt it had a bigger purpose in my life. I’m inspired by art because it has the ability to tell a story, show feeling and connect without words.
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business?
I’ve learned to stay true to myself and create from my heart. Not everyone will connect with my art but those that do will have a piece of my heart and souls work.
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience?
I’m incredibly proud of myself for not giving up when things get hard. Things don’t always go smoothly as a business owner. But the challenges I’ve faced have been lessons to help strengthen myself and my purpose.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
My favorite thing about my work space is creating with a view of the water. I’m so grateful to have a studio on the bay. The water is my happy place, creating with this view inspires my work and brings joy to my heart.
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
Remembering my why? Why do I create art?
I remember that creating art brings me joy and is an extension of me. Sometimes it takes just being present and having faith that what I am creating will turn out just as it should as long as I am creating with love.
What is your life motto?
“Life is too short to not do what we love.” I make it a daily practice to reflect on my life, to see where I can do more of what I love. We all deserve to be happy and enjoy life right now, not tomorrow or the next day. It might not come easily, but it feels damn good once we accomplish happiness and love in what we are doing everyday.
What does success mean to you?
Success to me is feeling proud of the work I’ve created and the effort I have given to do my best despite the obstacles I have faced. Doing what I love and sharing it with the world to me is the feeling of success. I am so incredibly grateful to share my vision and my creativity with the world. I am truly blown away by all the humans that have supported me on my journey. And it’s a dream to see people now wearing my art and making it apart of their daily life with the new Laurabirnbohmart apparel & accessory line.
Jennifer Portman - Synergy Hot Yoga
Owner of Synergy Hot Yoga, Triathlete, and Yoga Instructor
Fair Haven, NJ
Website - www.synergyhotyoga.com
Instagram - @synergy_hot_yoga
“Synergy- the creation of a whole that is greater than the simple sum of its parts.”
Describe your business in 3 sentences.
Synergy Hot Yoga is a bright, spacious, eco-designed, state-of-the-art studio that is known for the quality and experience of its teachers, the warmth of the desk staff, and the inclusive sense of community among its students. Hot yoga at Synergy provides deeper and safer stretching, a better cardiovascular workout, greater flexibility and balance, stress reduction, mind/body connection, and a calm sense of well-being. It will benefit you from the very first day you try it, and will continue to enhance your life in surprising ways the more you practice.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
As a lifelong athlete, I always had the vague notion that yoga was not for me- that it was “too easy” and that people who practiced it were too “out there.” But, when I was injured and could no longer run, I tried hot yoga and was hooked. The heat made it more challenging and physically satisfying, but the more I practiced, the more I realized that yoga offers so much more on so many levels-mental, emotional and spiritual. Every time I practice, it makes me want to be a better person.
What is the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business?
Every obstacle that seems insurmountable in the moment actually ends up making me stronger and the business better.
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience?
Providing a space, a community, where people come together, learn and grow, support each other, where everyone feels welcome and happy to be there. And that I can personally inspire people to be better. My husband always teases me about it, but almost every time we’re out, someone will come over and tell us how Synergy has changed their life.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
The community - the people!
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I am hard on myself, but very lucky to have an amazing husband who is incredibly supportive and does that for me. I’m also fortunate to live by the ocean; surfing, or going for a long swim in the vast expanse of the sea puts things in perspective and makes me feel strong, competent and calm. Practicing yoga has the same effect.
What is your personal or professional motto?
Don't overcomplicate or overthink: work hard; say what you mean, do what you say; listen; avoid drama; have faith that everything will be ok in the end; be kind.
What does success mean to you?
For me, it’s the personal gratification of knowing that I built a community that enhances peoples’ lives every day. And, setting an example for my children, Emily, Jon and Abby who have all started their own businesses. They are my biggest success story.
Melissa D’Anna - Lucky Dog Surf Co.
Surf Shop Business Owner
Sea Bright, NJ
Website - www.luckydogsurf.com
Instagram - @luckydogsurf
Describe your business in 3 sentences.
Lucky Dog Surf Co has everything from surf equipment, apparel, surf lessons and surf camp! It's your one stop shop on the Jersey Shore where people can feel comfortable getting to know the sport or get the equipment and apparel needed to shred and/or to look good! Lucky Dog Surf Co is not just a place to shop but also a place where locals and tourists come to get that feeling of nostalgic summer fun!
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
I've been surfing for a long time, about 17 years! I was never competitive about it, just loved the spontaneity of the waves and the constant challenge the sport presented. It was also just plain fun and everything about the culture of surfing and the feeling I got when I went into a surf shop made me happy. I never thought I would have my own shop though! After a few failed attempts at other careers, I decided to follow this passion and make surfing my career! Surf shops are my happy place and hopefully Lucky Dog Surf Co is that place for other people.
What is the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business.
You have to spend money to make money. It's important to watch your spending on certain things- but investing in good products, and investing in good people, and investing on the design and feel of the store is imperative to getting repeat and loyal customers.
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience.
Lucky Dog Surf Co is now a household name in this part of New Jersey, which makes me so proud. Most people have heard of it, and the shop has a very positive reputation. I get so excited when I see people wearing the Lucky Dog logo gear everywhere. I know I'm doing something right!
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
The shop is my workspace- so it was important to make it comfortable. I love that the shop feels like my childhood bedroom. Lots of color, surfboards everywhere, and I get to bring my dog to work- so that's awesome.
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I think it's important to look back at my original business plan and see all that I have accomplished based on the original plan. I know I can do anything, I just have to go for it.
What is your personal or professional motto?
“F—k it, get the beach bucket!” Kind of like... should I just go for it? The answer is yes- you should.
What does success mean to you?
Success is feeling proud of something I built, and feeling excited to go to work everyday. Although I am not a millionaire... yet, I love watching my business grow and overcome obstacles.
Shenaje Limani -N I L A
Seamstress and Business Owner
Website - www.facebook.com/nilaostbelgien
Instagram - @nila_ostbelgien
Describe you business.
I sell evening dresses and tailor women’s and men’s clothing. Throughout the past few months, I also sell hand tailored face protection masks due to COVID.
When did you first learn about your field of work? Why were you inspired by it?
In the beginning, I wanted to become a nurse. I realized pretty quick that this field of work was not my passion. I have always been interested in clothing, and switched to the sewing department of my school. Since then, I have never stopped designing and selling clothes!
Name the biggest overall lesson you’ve learned in running your business.
You never stop learning while running your own business. I have been my own boss for 9 years and I continue to learn something new every day.
Name your greatest success or something you’re most proud of in your business experience?
A lot of people did not believe in my concept of running my own business. I am proud that I could prove everyone the opposite and am a successful business owner today.
What is your favorite thing about your work space?
My sewing machine!
In moments of self-doubt, how do you build yourself back up?
I am a very positive person. Even in hard moments moments, I continue to prove to myself that everything is possible. I never gave up and I wont give up in the future.
What is your personal or professional motto? For yourself or for work.
When you don’t try, you cannot know the outcome. Don’t fear risks.
What does success mean to you?
Success means that I stay healthy and nice future with my family. That I live my life doing the things I love.