WOMEN I N
B U S I N E S S BY SHEILA FRAYNE RHOADES
Uptown asked eight female entrepreneurs how each achieved her success “Love what you do. Always be true to yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for advice, and accept suggestions.”
Mikki Jones, BISTRO 1130
From the time she was a young girl, MIKKI JONES always enjoyed being an entrepreneur. This passion led her into being the business woman she is today. Mikki loves her work, and it shows. She designed and created her popular Mediterranean restaurant Bistro 1130 in September 2010. “I wanted to bring a different flare to the St. Louis area. My work experience has always been people related, so being in the restaurant business fell into that category.” Mikki explained her personal business outlook, “I’m a very
24
|
UPTOWN MAGAZINE
independent woman, strong willed and even stubborn some would say. I tend to learn as I go along which isn't always the best way to do some things. But this industry relies on creativity, and that includes the kitchen. I’m excited about some new and exciting changes coming in 2014 - new menu items with exciting new flavors. As always, guests will enjoy a great time and wonderful food, great atmosphere, and beautiful patio dining along the water front during the Spring, Summer and Fall.” Mikki likes the freedom of being her own boss. “I don’t think being a woman in business is necessarily empowering. It's more of a fulfillment for me. I want to be the best I can and never stop improving.” Her philosophy is simple, “Love what you do. Always be true to yourself, don’t be afraid to ask for advice, and accept suggestions.” Prior to opening Bistro 1130, Mikki was a custom home builder. She started her own company, Abbington Custom Homes in 1995, and built it up until 2004. “I enjoyed every aspect of Home Building, even the frustrating moments, and being one of the only Woman Owned Home Building companies in St. Louis, I earned much respect from my competitors.” In her very first year of building, Mikki entered one home into the Homer Award competition. “Among twenty or more other builders who entered ten or more homes, I won in that category - quite an honor!” Her mentor then was her late husband Bob Jones, owner of The Jones Company. “He always supported me during my home building days.” When not at the Bistro, Mikki handles stress with workouts, yoga, swimming, tennis, and golf. She loves decorating, cooking, and painting. She also enjoys unwinding at her beach home with her teenage daughter, her fiancé and their seven dogs. When time allows, this busy lady takes on local charity work. 1130 Town & Country Drive, Chesterfield, MO 63017, (636) 394-1130, www.bistro1130.com