SPECIAL INSERT
SHE HUSTLES TALKS WOMEN OWNED BUSINESSES
FEATURING:
- EVERYDAY HANDS - KRISTIN JOY MARTIN - BLISSFUL IMAGE - L SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY - DIANE CHESTER - MIRACLES LABELLA BOUTIQUE - RACQUEL LMT - AND MORE!
Keisha Grissett LOOKING BEHIND THE LENS
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K.VICTORIA’S KEISHA GRISSETT PHOTOS BY K. VICTORIA PHOTOGRAPHY
Welcome Keisha Grissett to the She Hustles Talks lady boss covergirl gang in Rochester Woman Online. I had the pleasure of chatting with this “hustler” about her business, what makes her hustle, her photography and so much more. Here is what she had to say. Tell our audience a little bit about who Keisha Grissett is and your where you come from.
it a career. I told him I was scared to get into that business, but he and I made a deal and I agreed to give it a try. This led me to being a photographer today. And actually, my husband told me I should use my middle name for my business. So, thats how K. Victoria came about. What kind of gear do you use?
Keisha Grissett is a wife, a mother, a sister and a daughter. I was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey but was raised in Newark. I went to West Side High School ( where I met my husband ) and graduated. I use to homeschool my kids for about the last 5 years.
How do you educate yourself to take better pictures?
I would say Keisha Grissett is a laid back person that loves to relax and eat all kinds of food. I also love to spend time with my family. That is basically who I am and a little bit about myself. When did you launch K. Victoria Photography? I launched K. Victoria Photography in 2019. I decided to look into photography more when a good friend of mine and my brother, Chris Summner came to my home and told me I should make
I decided to become a photographer because I realized how incredible I felt when taking pictures. I was always into art, so photography to me was another way to express myself. I love how I see a picture through my own eyes. Plus, I love to be a part of someone else’s memories whether it be with a business, or their family, or showing their creativity and talents. Being a photographer is not my job, but my passion. I wake up thinking of ideas on how I can take photos of people.
The gear I use most is a Canon T2I and a Canon T7I, with lenes including a 40 mm, 18-55m, 85mm,and 70 to 200mm Canon lens. Why did you decide to become a photographer?
I educate myself by actually looking on YouTube and watching alot of videos. I also ask other photographers questions. There is always something new to learn in photography. I can watch the same photography video 5 times and get something new and different from it ever time. Then when I’m studying my passion, I would put what I learn into my own images, but do it my own way. I love to learn new ideas and lesssons on photography because that’s how I’m going to get better. Which photographers influenced you, and how did they influence your thinking, photographing, and career path?
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SHIFT+CONTROL {{ SHE HUSTLES TALKS} } “Actually, my husband told me I should use my middle name for my business. So thats how K. Victoria came about.”
This is a good question. Well, there are a couple of photographers who I really like to work with and inspire me. Let me say, all photographers are amazing in their own way, but the ones that have inspired me, or have given me advice in Rochester would have start with Albert Jones. He once told me if I came to a fashion event to always wear all black. I also asked photographer Rob Daniels one time about which camera I should purchase and he told me his favorite and I bought that camera. Chris “Goodknews” Cardwell let me come to his studio once and watch him do a photoshoot and gave me tips. Let’s not forget my brother Blank Kanvas who is always giving me advice on my passion.
camera and equipment before I started actually taking photos. I was learning as I would take pictures. I didn’t know much about a Canon at all. but as I started taking photos I would start noticing more things about my camera more and more.
But the one who has been teaching me about lighting, pricing, and what kind of gear to get to shoot better photos, plus showing me how to use my camera the correct way is my mentor, Jay Ceaz. So the photographs you see today are because of that man there. I truly appreciate all his advice and his mentorship.
What has been your biggest challenge being a female entrepreneur in the photography field?
I also watch alot of photographers on YouTube like Manny Ortiz and Jessica Kobeissi, I love the way they take pictures and how they teach me how to make my photography passion even better. What is the one thing you wish you knew when you started taking photos? I just wish I knew more about my
What makes you hustle? What makes me hustle is definitely my kids. To show my kids they can be and do whatever they want to do when they grow up. Yes it will be hard, and you will lose sleep sometimes, but if you want it that bad you will work hard and it will happen. I want to show them that if I can do it, they can too. Being their mom will always make me hustle.
My biggest challenge would have to be when I first started I was intimidated by other male photographers’ work. But as I start doing my own thing, I realize we all take pictures in a different way, and that’s what I love. Being a female in the photography business I see all kinds of photographers now. I see women and men doing what they love to do. What do you feel is your specialty and why? I would have to say I love taking photos outside. You can use natural light most of the time and I like the wind blowing in someone’s hair to
give me a certain look. I like the different kinds of backgrounds you can put your model in when you’re outside, rather than having a plain backdrop I can have a park, or beach, or downtown in the city. What is your favorite thing about working with your subjects? Working with my clients means alot to me to get to know them as a person and their different personalities. This will show in their photos. I want them to feel confident and be able to be comfortable with me to pose them and feel free. That’s why I ask them what kind of music they listen to and more about themselves. I like to find out there likes and their dislikes, that way they can trust that I will not have them looking crazy or out of their element. It is more personal. What is one thing you would like to learn? Wow. I dont think it’s just one thing. I know there are things I want to learn about, but if I could choose I would have to say it would be learning more about taking photos at night. I would love to learn more about lighting for nighttime photoshoots. What are three things that have helped make you successful? 1. Keep studying my passion. 2. Being confident in my work. 3. Being humble . ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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{{ SHE HUSTLES TALKS} } SHIFT+CONTROL “I decided to become a photographer because I realized how I felt when taking these pictures. I was always into art, so photography to me was another way to express your art.”
What would you say is your primary style?
day, that week, that month works. So, thats why it’s K. Victoria Style.
My primary style is what I call K. Victoria Style. I love colors and trying new things. but mostly I love colors. I also would say I have an urban style, but then again whatever I feel that
What do you like to do when you are not working your business?
and ethopian food. I am a foodie, or chill at home with my family and just relax, watch a good movie, or play a game with my kids.
I like to go to different restaurants and taste all kinds of food. I love sushi ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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{ { SHE HUSTLES TALKS} } SHIFT+CONTROL “My biggest challenge would have to be when I first started I was intimidated by other male photographers’ work, but as I start eddoing my own thing I realized we all take pictures in a different way, and that’s what I love.”
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MAKENNA
INFLUENTIALWOMANONLINE.COM
STARTING AT $199
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LAUREN GOETZ BY KELLY BREUER
Everyday Hands, Inc. is here to help when you need an extra set of hands! With with their help, your elderly parents remain independent while they tackle the small things that pile up in their everyday lives.
I needed a change, and I needed to be in charge of my own destiny. So, I started my own business in a completely different field of helping elderly clients with their every day needs.
When things are chaotic for your family, Lauren Goetz and her team are there to perform light housekeeping and aid you with any errands that need to be done. She is even available to help with parties! Above all, your family is her family. At a moment’s notice, she will be there to do what she can to help and provide a personal touch on every interaction.
W. Irondequoit has one of the largest populations of 55 and over in Monroe county, so it is perfect for my business
Recently, I was able to talk with Lauren about her incredible journey, expanding her business, and so much more. She truly has an amazing drive and really care about her clients and helping them. Especially during the pandemic, her services proved to be invaluable to her elderly clients. Here is what she had to say to Rochester Woman Online.
I decided to open my own business, Everyday Hands. A lot of people think I’m franchised because I have done such a good job branding my business. I started out small, but there is a big need for my services, so who knows where the future will take us. What is your favorite part of doing what you do? Helping the seniors, especially the ones in their 80s and 90’s is by far the best part of what I do. They have so many stories and different perspectives. I just love the interaction. I am a people person. A lot of them don’t have any family or because of Covid aren’t able to see them, so they look forward to me coming. What was your key driving force to become a female entrepreneur?
to be located here. I live here with my husband and our 2 cats.
So tell us a little bit about your self and your background...
What made you want to become a female entrepreneur?
My name is Lauren Goetz and I was born in Greece, New York but have resided in West Irondequoit for over 25 years. I worked in the accounting field for over 25 years and realized
In 2017 I started working with some of my senior neighbors and realized that I really enjoyed it, and there was a huge need for help for seniors just doing daily things. So, that is when
I always envisioned myself working for someone else… But, I had all sorts of jobs, and it was just never a fit. “Turns out this boss it a bitch,” she laughed. I never imagined becoming a visiting nurse, or having my own business, but it just comes naturally to me. I didn’t set out to save lives, but it seems to be an offshoot and what I am meant to do. As a business owner, what are your top three priorities? ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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“This is a job that really comes from the heart. I think you either have it or your don’t. It is not something you can train someone on.”
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{ SHE HUSTLES TALKS } “Turns out this boss it a bitch.”
• Honesty. Trust. • Having people trust me in their homes. • Having people not be judged and to be themselves. I really pride myself on that. What would your clients say is their favorite thing about working with you? Probably that they can depend on me. It gives them a sense of feeling safe. When I say I will be there I
am there. Plus, they would say my personality… I am a ball buster. I am from Greece after all. What is most important to you and why at this point in your life? Feelng like I can make a difference. Being laid off so many times, you feel like you are just a number. For so long I was a single mom, and it was so hard. Now, I get to work hard for myself and not someone else and see the results.
What keeps you up at night? I need an employee or employees. Someone that has the passion and drive and compassion to work, like me. Someone who doesn’t mind cleaning toilets. Someone who I can trust with my business reputation. Having so much work, and knowing there is so much more of a need for my services keeps me up trying to figure out how I can provide it. What are the daily challenges you face owning your own business?
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“I didn’t know I was capable of more until I was kind of forced into it.”
I hated being an accountant. I hated what I was doing. I didn’t know I was capable of more until I was kind of forced into it. But, having the accounting background has really help me run my business. So I guess it all works out for a reason.
got creative and started getting their groceries. Parts of it changed and parts just were down right weird. I made a lot of new connections through GRAPE. Getting in front of the other professionals made a huge difference
What is one thing you have done that you do not regret? I joined the Rochester Women’s Network. It has grown my skill set and also my confidence. It is the single best thing I could have done.
How did Covid affect your business? It affected it in a couple ways. I had some seniors in senior living facilities and lost clients because of it because I was not being able to go in. People were scared to have me come in. I 137
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Not in my case. Most caregivers are female. My primary market and target audience are women and caregivers that are females taking care of their family members. Probably 75% of the calls I get are from female caregivers. This is a job that really comes from the heart. I think you either have it or your don’t. It is not something you can train someone on.
What are your plans for 2021? Growth. I had to get out of my comfort zone. Covid isn’t going any where fast. There are so many people that don’t know that the help exists. I need to hire a couple employees so we can reach more and help more people.
male makes any difference in what you do?
in growing my network and getting my name out there. So it was bad and good for me. But in the end my skill set and business have provided to be essential, especially during Covid for so many clients. Do you think being a female vs
If you are interested in finding out more about the services that Lauren and Everyday Hands p r ov i d e s , y o u can check out their website for more information a t w w w . everydayhandshelp. com
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ARE YOU OVERWH WITH AN E TO-DO
WWW.EVERYDAYHANDSH
FEELING HELMED ENDLESS O LIST?
HELP.COM I (585) 329-3753
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KRISTEN JOY MARTIN A little over two years ago, I quit dieting and obsessing over my body and I’ve never been more content and happy! I decided it was time to make a change and learn how to love, respect and appreciate my body, no matter what my pants size is or what the scale says. In fact, I don’t even know what the scale says anymore because it doesn’t matter! My main focus over the last two years has been to intentionally focus on how my body feels and focus on being HEALTHY! Not just healthy in my body- but healthy spiritually, emotionally, and mentally as well. All of my years of chronic dieting and self loathing made me a really unhealthy person despite the few times I got “thin”. I can distinctly remember the time I lost 60 pounds and was able to fit into size 4 pants for the first time ever in my life. I was thin, but I was thin by obsession. I was never satisfied and I obsessed about food all day long. I lived for weighing myself every day in hopes I would be a couple ounces lighter than yesterday. I received a ton of compliments and congratulations from people when I got thin (because that’s what we think should be celebrated), and yet I was mentally and emotionally so unhealthy- not really something to celebrate. I truly believe we have such a skewed way of thinking about what healthy means. Even when I competed in a pageant, the swimsuit portion states it’s to show our “commitment to health” and I was 141
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unbelievably healthy but told I needed to lose weight to be more competitive. THIN doesn’t equal healthy. Truthfully, some of the thinnest, most “in shape” women I know are some of the most unhealthy women and struggle with chronic thoughts and obsession about
their body. I see so many women living in obsession but mask it by calling it health and fitness. About two years ago, I had a massive awakening and I remember asking myself if I wanted the story of my life
to be about constantly trying to lose weight? Did I want the majority of my thoughts in my life to be about my body, the scale, stressing over food etc., or did I want to make the choice to STOP? And the truth is, I don’t think I was asking myself these questions. I think this was something that God laid on my heart because He knew if I didn’t get over this I was going to miss my life. I have spent so many countless hours, shed an unbelievable amount of tears and wasted so much of my life worrying about my weight and body that there almost wasn’t any room for God‘s calling in my life or anything else. The fact is, I was SELF obsessed and there wasn’t any room to step into my gifts and calling because I was so busy with myself! From the time I woke up to the time I went to bed, the majority of my thoughts were about my body and stressing out over food! When I woke up each day, I wouldn’t eat or drink anything until I weighed myself and if the scale didn’t say what I wanted it to, my entire day would become a train wreck. My entire identity and worth was wrapped up in this. Do you ever notice that when a group of women get together at some point the food/diet/weight loss conversation always comes up? Someone is always talking about what diet they are on, someone always feels guilted into saying she needs to get in shape and inevitably we hear conversations surrounding food that go like this:
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{{{ SHE HUSTLES SHE HUSTLES TALKS TALKS} }} SHIFT+CONTROL “A little over two years ago, I quit dieting and obsessing over my body and I’ve never been more content and happy!”
“Ugh, I would really love the burger but I’m going to be good and get the salad”, or “I’m going to be bad and get the burger”, or “I can’t have that because I’m on a diet”. Seriously, pay attention and you will realize that as women we have become so conditioned to talk “food and diet” all the time. We wear our diets and fitness goals like a badge of honor. Now, let me add my disclaimer here. I am 100% for health and that includes healthy habits like moving your body and nutritious foods! I also know there are many health related reasons for weight loss and changing food habits. I’m not suggesting we should just be happily unhealthy, what I’m referring to is an unhealthy obsession with our bodies, food, weight loss and these things becoming major distractions from living our lives. For anyone struggling with these things, I want you to know that you are NOT alone! There is a staggering statistic that says 91% of women are unhappy with their bodies and roughly 55% of women are on a diet. These numbers are crazy! It makes sense why diet and body talk always comes up since almost all women have it on their mind all the time. I also want you to know that if you want to free yourself from an unhealthy relationship with your body and food, you also aren’t alone! There is a huge body positivity movement going on thanks to social media and influencers, bloggers and vocal women saying ENOUGH! In fact, one of the reasonsI have been able to make this shift is because I started letting the right women influence my life and I removed anyone and everyone from my social media and life that made 145
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me feel less than or like I needed to lose weight to live a happy life. I removed diet culture and body obsession from my face and replaced it with inspiring women who spoke on body positivity, women’s empowerment, goals, dreams, vision, mindset, etc. and I chose to stop wasting my time starving my body and start feeding my mind, spirit and heart that was starved for so long. Another tactic I used was to get intentional with my thoughts, talk and actions. I started holding myself accountable to negative self talk, diet conversations, calling myself “fat” and I got rid of my scale! I also got rid of clothing that wasn’t supporting me! I didn’t need to keep things in my closet that didn’t fit because they were constant triggers for me to revert back to my old unhealthy way of thinking. It was honestly amazing how refreshing it was to clear out my closet and walk in and feel peaceful! Oh, and you want to know what else is crazy? After I stopped obsessing over food, all of my cravings stopped. I no longer had the desire to binge and I don’t ever feel like I have to finish a meal because it’s a “cheat” meal and I “can’t” have it again for a week etc. I truly have so much more balance and joy in my life now. Girl, life is literally waiting for you!! Let’s go get it!! You know that quote “everything you want is on the other side of fear”? Well, I definitely think it’s true, but I also think that “everything you want is on the other side of letting your crap go”! I think we’ve truly become so obsessed about our weight and our bodies to the point where we are missing out on so much life and all that God has for us! I truly believe it’s become
a tool to distract us and keep us busy worrying about ourselves instead of stepping into our BEST selves, all that God has for us and serving others. There is absolutely nothing wrong with taking care of yourself, having physical goals, wanting to get stronger or wanting to feel better. In fact, I believe all of that IS healthy and promotes a healthy life. Self care is healthy, obsession is not. I also want to add that the journey to a healthier mentality takes time. I don’t look at every inch of my body and “like” what I see, but I do look at every inch of my body and know that, despite some areas I would like to change or some parts of my body I’m not crazy about- I LOVE who I am, I am enough, my body is beautiful and my worth has absolutely nothing to do with my body. My body, your body, is actually the least interesting thing about us. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to miss out on my life and purpose because I spent all my time focused on my body. No double chin or belly roll is going to keep me from living and enjoying life anymore! It’s honestly been amazing how much personal growth and change has happened in my life since making room to think about other things! I am a completely different person than I was two years ago and I’m still the same pants size, imagine that! This transformation inspired me to pull the trigger and open the boutique I’ve been dreaming of since I was a little girl. I always wanted to create a shop that any woman could walk into and walk out of feeling more confident and
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{{{ SHE HUSTLES SHIFT+CONTROL SHE HUSTLES TALKS TALKS} }} “Do you ever notice that when a group of women get together at some point the food/diet/ weight loss conversation always comes up?”
empowered. Our boutique’s quote is: “An empowering boutique that serves mommas, mid-size babes and women of all sizes that want to feel confident and beautiful just as you are, right now”. The world is constantly telling us that we need to change something to look or feel more beautiful, and I’m here to tell you that the only thing you need to change is the way you see yourself.
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You are beautiful! Your cellulite is womanly, your back rolls are cute and normal (just ask anyone from the Renaissance period), your stretch marks are part of your story, your thighs are allowed to touch and you don’t need to lose 10 pounds before your vacation or before you buy that dress. Buy the dress. Put on the bathing suit. Go to the event. Order the fries without apologizing.
Go to the gym to be strong. Step into the best version of yourself and don’t look back! Kristen Joy Martin Owner and CEO of Queen City Trading Co Boutique, Blogger @ HotMESSageMomma and Host of the Coffee With KJ Podcast
,Inc.
MISSION To provide transitional housing for women coming out of shelters who do not have the resources to secure safe, clean and affordable housing.
FIGHTING AGAINST POVERTY IN OUR CITY Coaching Google Training Resume Writing Workshops
CONNECT TO SUPPORT (585)851-8195 TheEstherProjectRochester@gmail.com http://bit.ly/TheEstherProjectInc @TheEstherProject1
“Filling in the gap from the shelter to home”
SALTED BY MLB SALT AND SUGAR SCRUBS
With my background in the world of healthcare, I continued to witness the desperation that people had to get to a state of normality. I took a deep interest in supporting my family and community to live healthier lifestyles. One simple step for people was to bathe in salt. No not iodized salt but salt that releases the stressors of this world. Salt that encourages rejuvenation in order to conquer the tasks of today and tomorrow. The health benefits that people witnessed encouraged them to plead with me to help others. Thus, Salted by MLB was born.
Creator and Founder
Myshon Bryant
I’M READY TO MAKE YOUR VISION COME TRUE! 💜EVENT PLANNER/COORDINATOR- I CAN PLAN OR COORDINATE ANY EVENT AND/OR FIND YOU THE PERFECT LOCATION. 💜CASTING DIRECTOR FASHION SHOWS/FILMS- I WILL COORDINATE CASTINGS FOR ANYONE LOOKING FOR MODELS OR ACTORS FOR YOUR PROJECT! 💜TALENT ORGANIZER- IF YOU NEED A CERTAIN TALENT FOR YOUR PROJECT-MUA, HAIRSTYLISTS, SINGERS, DANCERS, STYLISTS, PHOTOGRAPHERS, DESIGNERS, SPEAKERS ETC. ANY TALENT YOU WOULD NEED, I WILL PROVIDE. IF YOU REQUIRE ANY OF MY SERVICES, PLEASE REACH OUT VIA EMAIL LSJONESCO@GMAIL.COM IG: LSISME
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BLISSFUL IMAGE BY SHARLYN MARQUEZ
So tell us about Blissful Image...How did you come up with the name and the logo concept? One night I was praying about the business name. I wanted something to go with Image. The ones I thought of didn’t really fit what I wanted, and others were already taken. That night in my dream, my cousin came to me and started scolding me about a few things. Before she left she said “blissful”. When I woke up I remembered what she said and immediately looked up the meaning of the word. I loved it and decided to go with it. The logo was pretty easy to come up with. I hired someone from Fiver and told them I wanted something pretty but easy to read. And the B needed to be a butterfly to represent my cousin (it’s said that people who pass, visit their loved ones in the form of a butterfly). The Purple is my favorite color and hers too. What made you want to become a female entrepreneur and start your own beauty services business? I decided to become an entrepreneur for many reasons. One of which was, I got tired of giving my all to employers who did not value me genuinely. Another of the many reasons was because it’s important for me to be able to work in a non toxic environment. I find this line of work is therapeutic not only to me but also to my clients. There are many Permanent Cosmetic Providers and Estheticians. However, my goal is to
focus on the health side of it. Ex: work with Oncology patients to help with the skin challenges that come with certain Oncology treatments. What is your favorite part of doing what you do? My favorite part of what I do is to provide and encourage self care to my clients & seeing their results. I get clients in my chair full of tension and
still considered a beginner. I have recently graduated Esthetics school and am now offering skincare & body contouring services. One of the unique services I offer is an Oncology SkinCare Treatment. My treatments are not a cookie cutter . This treatment is dependent on the clients concerns and health/skin conditions. Depending on what those are, we both come up with a treatment plan. I use Color Up for most of my skincare treatments. Color Up was the first of its kind worldwide to introduce a natural & organic Hemp CBD skin care line. What was your key driving force to become a female entrepreneur? One of my key driving forces to become a female entrepreneur are my kids. Another is my cousin Gloria Caraballo better known as Pochie. A lot of my vision and mission for Blissful Image stems from her. It is my way of honoring her, and her grandmother who both died from Cancer.
when they leave the tension is gone and they are fully relaxed & delighted with thier results! Tell us about the some of the unique services you offer at Blissful image and what service is your expertise... Blissful Image started out offering services in Permanent Cosmetics. Although I consider myself to have a lot of knowledge in that field, I am
As a business owner, what are your top three priorities? As a business owner, my 3 top priorities are: positive relationships with my clients, continuously building and expanding my business, and maintaining authenticity. What makes you hustle? What makes me hustle are my children. I want to demonstrate that, no matter ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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{{ SHE SHE HUSTLES HUSTLES TALKS TALKS }} “And the B needed to be a butterfly to represent my cousin (it’s said that people who pass, visit their loved ones in the form of a butterfly). ”
what, do not give up! Find a way to pivot when needed and keep pushing forward! What would you say is your best quality as a business owner? I think that one of the best qualities as a business owner I have is my authenticity. Even as a professional, I remain myself.
What are the daily challenges you face owning your own business along with having a family? The daily challenges I face owning
What are your plans for 2021? My plans for 2021 are to: expand my clientele, convert to an LLC, expand business hours, more advertising & marketing for Blissful Image, and to get my message out.
What would your clients say is their favorite thing about working with you? Most of my clients have told me they appreciate my transparency. I speak upon the good, bad and ugly. What is most important to you and why at this point in your life? At this point in my life it’s important for me to make my dreams of being a successful business owner, doing what I am passionate about. I am not getting any younger & I too have some health challenges. I want to show my boys that anything is possible if you don’t give up!
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100% of the business (upfront and behind the scenes) alone. I hope to be able to expand services & also bring in a genuine & trust worthy team sooner than later.
I want the community to know that my services can be catered to their individual needs even with health challenges!
a business and having a family is balance. I have a very hard time balancing both, especially since I do
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RAQUEL WALKER There is a quote I connect deeply with “life is too short to be working for someone else’s dream”. Growing up, I didn’t envision myself being an entrepreneur, not until I began to clearly recognize my path by reflecting on the experiences that have shaped me into the person that I am today.
empowering my clients to explore and implement holistic methods of self-healing. Through individual treatments, my clients experience
Throughout my professional career, I realized that my roles and responsibilities were focused on leadership that required me to initiate, create, implement, improvise and document what was being designed.
The collaborative client centered space at Plushh Salon and Spa provides additional benefits to clients who can schedule other service appointments that compliment their self care needs. We offer Lymphatic Drainage Treatment (post op massage), Swedish massage, Shiatsu and reiki. Our focus on the mind, body and spirit of each client promotes several benefits:
I was an entrepreneur in the making, I gained invaluable experiences in those previous roles that have given me the skill set to pour into my vision and dreams. It was exhilarating to recognize my worth, competencies, and belief in myself. Becoming a wellness entrepreneur is one of the most fulfilling things I have done in my life. As a massage therapist specializing in manual lymphatic drainage, coach and facilitator, my focus is on educating and
support clients in revealing and utilizing their own mind-body wisdom.
1. Reduction of stress. 2. Strengthen the body’s immune system. 3. Reduction of the effects of anxiety. 4. Support client in meeting self-love and self-care goals.
greater degrees of wholeness and wellness on physical, mental, emotional and energetic levels. I
5. Support client in achieving centered and grounded state. 6. Facilitate physical, emotional and energetic healing. ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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“Life is too short to be working for someone else’s dream.”
{{{ SHE HUSTLES SHE HUSTLES TALKS TALKS} }} SHIFT+CONTROL “Through individual treatments, my clients experience greater degrees of wholeness and wellness on physical, mental, emotional and energetic levels.”
I am Raquel Walker, owner and creator of Divi9 Creation, LLC (aka Divi9 at Plushh). I am a tool through which creations are manifested. I am a daughter, a sister, I was chosen to be a wife,a mother and I am called to be a poet, published author, licensed 161
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massage therapist, certified manual lymphatic drainage specialist, personal yoni coach, goddess/ healing circle facilitator, reiki healer.
and fulfilling life. I have found massage therapy to be one of the most significant tools for creating a pain free life.
I am a conduit along the process of seeking tools to support the enhancement of a happy, healthy
For more information please check us out at www.divi9creation.com
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L SHOT PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADELINA L SHOT GONZALEZ
Tell us about yourself and your business: L Shot Photography. My name is Adelina, I’m 51 years old and I’m a newbie photographer that stepped out the gate full speed, learning, engaging, self-taught and eager and I’ve been very serious about my passion for photography since 2020. My business name was established in part because my fiancée calls me L, so I added the rest to form the name L Shot Photography. My studio is open every Thursday, and it’s located in downtown Rochester, at Urban Euphoria 35 S Washington St, upper level floor. What made you want to become a photographer? I have always had an interest in photography but I never pursued it until 2020. I bought my first camera, a Nikon point and shoot, and haven’t looked back since. Now I have three Canon cameras and the Nikon, several lenses, and a whole bunch of other photography equipment. I just enjoy what I do. I love being able to freeze precious moments, one frame at a time so that my clients may cherish and relive those memories all over again. What is your favorite part of doing what you do? Getting setup, providing props and a great backdrop, and the smiles, that’s my favorite part. When my clients view their photos and smile, high five me,
shake their heads in approval, that’s my favorite part. I know that I have done my job when I see those smiles. Tell us about being a published author and creator of Guiding Tomorrow’s Youth, Today? Being a published author was my first passion. I’ve been writing for over 15
years and I have had my stories published in anthologies, as well as in magazines. I have a pretty large following due to my writings and I’ve been told that my stories are extremely engaging, descriptive and felt to the core. I haven’t put out my own book yet but it’s definitely in the works. Guiding Tomorrow’s Youth, Today is a
project I started not too long ago. What does “Guiding Tomorrow’s Youth, Today” mean? It means: preparing, teaching, nurturing, guiding, informing and aiding our youth of the future through the youth, the parents, the community, the schools and the environment of today. If we teach and instill the elements, and provide the necessary tools needed today, to all who have influences over our youth, without being bias, without discrimination, without hate, without envy, and without jealousy, the youth stand a better chance at succeeding and excelling. The youth will have a better chance at becoming productive members in a society that, unfortunately, is filled with people that have already judged them based on the color of their skin, their background and their socioeconomic. This detrimental cycle that hinders and hurts our youth must be intercepted, conquered and diminished to ensure that the YOUTH OF TOMORROW ARE GUIDED IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION STARTING WITH THE YOUTH OF TODAY. What was your key driving force to become a female entrepreneur? The key force is being able to work for myself which gives me flexibility and my own availability. I’m able to write my own hours, can start and end when I want and I don’t have to answer to anyone except myself and of course to my fiancée lol. ROCHESTER WOMAN ONLINE :: FEBRUARY EDITION 2021
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{ HEIDI’S LAW } } { SHE HUSTLES TALKS “What does “Guiding Tomorrow’s Youth, Today” mean? It means: preparing, teaching, nurturing, guiding, informing and aiding our youth of the future through the youth, the parents, the community, the schools and the environment of today.”
How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life? Being an entrepreneur is truly a blessing and rewarding but it takes a lot of work, commitment, sweat and time. It’s time away from family and that’s the part that affects the family a great deal. Although I have a very supportive family, I’m considerate and manage that time as best as I can. Especially when I’m hired to do a last minute shoot or when I’m up at all hours of the night, editing photos, which takes a lot of time. What makes you hustle? I’m driven, I’m determined and I don’t want to have to depend or rely on others. I don’t want anything to hinder me or come in between what I’m trying to do to better myself, my situation, my life and my business so I hustle. I hustle hard to make what I’m doing, worth it in the end. What would you say is your best quality as a photographer? What is it that you are the best at? I’m always eager to learn and incorporate everything I learn to produce my best quality of work because that’s important to my clients. Being able to engage my clients even in the most difficult times and capture moments that most likely would never be captured. I’m hired 169
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for all types of functions and events, including funerals. The funerals are hard because I’m trying to be a professional but it can be difficult. In capturing those moments, I sometimes feel as though I’m invading in those intimate and emotional periods of grief and mourning. It’s not always easy. What is most important to you and why at this point in your life?
Purpose. Being able to make my mark on this earth. Being successful, not only with my photography business but also in every aspect of my life. I’m older and I’m definitely seeing my life in a different light. What keeps you up at night? Continuously planning my next move, editing, and how to be a better photographer, learning how to make
my business bigger and better, and how to better market L Shot Photography. What are the daily challenges you faced owning your own business? My daily challenges would be, trying to generate more traffic to my business and to keep it flowing, continuously. And building a larger clientele. Being able to serve everyone the same quality of work regardless if I’m in the studio or outside of the studio. What made you decide to become a published author as well as a photographer? I wanted to become a published author because I had a story (well many stories) to write and share but needed my work to be copyrighted to protect my stories and my rights. And what made me decide to become a photographer, please refer to question 2. What is one thing you have done that you do not regret? Becoming an entrepreneur. Knowing that it will be hard and that I will be faced with challenges at times, and the thought of possibly quitting could try to occupy space in my mind but I will never give in, and I’ll never regret my decision in becoming an entrepreneur.
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DIANE CHESTER What is Optavia? Optavia is a proven science based program with an amazing weight loss component that helps clients reach their optimal weight, and creates a lifelong transformation one healthy habit at a time. What made you want to start representing this business? We realized very early on in our journey that this plan was incredibly effective and easy to follow. We wanted to share hope with others that they too can transform their lives. Being an Optavia coach provides built in accountability to ourselves and our clients which ensures that we will maintain our long-term health. What is your favorite part of doing what you do? We love watching people awaken to the realization that they too can create a lifelong transformation that includes healthy habits that will serve them for the rest of their life. What tools did Optavia provide to help you change your lifestyle? Optavia adds a social support component by offering access to a health coach who can answer questions and provide encouragement, the Optavia Community, the Habits of Health
Transformational System and a simple structured nutrition plan. What made you decide on Optavia versus its competitors? Optavia addresses the whole trilogy of health; healthy body, healthy mind and healthy finances. All of the components of this plan work synergistically to
What makes you hustle? Becoming a health coach has brought meaning and purpose to our lives, but also the time freedom created by this tremendous financial opportunity What would your customers say is their favorite thing about working with you? They feel our passion created by our personal success with this program. Which gives them tremendous hope that they can also achieve similar results. What is most important to you and why at this point in your life? To achieve optimal health and financial freedom now and well beyond our retirement years. What are some of the daily challenges you face especially during covid? The Covid-19 crisis made me realize how short life can be, and that I needed to reset my priorities, namely my health.
create life-long transformation. What changes in your health and lifestyle have you accomplished? Our tremendous weight loss has not only improved our self-confidence, but also created an abundance of energy, quality sleep, and increased mental clarity.
What are your plans for 2021 and beyond? To continue on this amazing health journey while building a health coaching business with a community of likeminded people. Contact Diane to learn more at dchester@rochester.rr.com
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“I wanted to become a female entrepreneur to be able to set my own rules. I wanted to be flexible and have the freedom to work on my own schedule while making money doing things I love.”
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MIRACLES LABELLA BOUTIQUE Tell us about Miracles Labella Boutique and how it got started. Launched in 2021, Miracle’s La Bella Boutique flourished from the youngest face of the company, my daughter Miss Miracle Marie, and as we call her, “La Bella” meaning beautiful representing her Italian genetics. How did the idea for your business come about? I have always wanted to be a business owner and own a clothing store or boutique. As a teenager my mother and her ex-boyfriend had a local urban store called “Cuse fashions.”So, I guess you can say it is in my blood.
I was just a baby. My grandmother and Grandfather owned a car wash “Fayette Auto Wash” in Syracuse, NY which now my Great Uncle John owns and operates. So truthfully being an entrepreneur is in my DNA. What makes you “hustle”? My daughter makes me hustle.
knowing storms do not last forever. What is most important to you and why at this point in your life? I will be 34 soon and leaving generational wealth for my daughter, or my future children is important to me. Tomorrow is not promised, so I try to make every day count. At this age I am more focused than ever. What keeps you up at night? Researching, and the eagerness of learning new information and when my creative juices are flowing it is hard for me to halt my thoughts. So, that’s what keeps me up at night.
What is your favorite part of doing what you do? Shopping, I love shopping. Putting together looks and just being able to be creative with my own ideas. How has being an entrepreneur affected your family life? Right now, just trying to stay focused on building my brand and a stable foundation for my family sometimes requires sleepless nights. But, I cannot say its affected us to much just yet.
Knowing I have a toddler daughter looking up to me, I need her to know she can accomplish anything she puts her mind to as well as she can have anything she desires.
What was your key driving force to become a female entrepreneur? My key driven force is coming from a family of entrepreneurs. My great grandmother owned a neighborhood convenience store called “Woods Street Market” in Muskegon Michigan when
How do you push through your worst times? I pray, I cry, and call and vent to my mother. She is my best friend. But when I look at my daughter I realize losing, or failure is not an option and then I push through those moments
What are the daily challenges you face as a female entrepreneur, and black woman owned business? I am not a competitive individual, but there are people who may be intimated by my presence, or the way that I can blend within any environment. It then brings about uncomfortable challenges. Another challenge is some people may not take me seriously, so I have to stand firm on my words and confidence. How do you defy social expectations, especially during the pandemic? For me social expectations during the pandemic are being active and positively engaging. Building relationships and networking on social media like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter etc.
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HUSTLES TALKS { {{INSHE SHE HER HUSTLES OWN WORDS TALKS }} } “My daughter makes me hustle. Knowing I have a toddler daughter looking up to me. I need her to know she can accomplish anything she puts her mind to as well as she can have anything she desires”
What is your favorite fashion accessory and why? I could not just choose one favorite fashion. LOL. I love shoes and I love me a nice purse. Both set the tone for your outfit. #13 What is your main goal for 2021? My main goal for 2021 is to Pray, stay focused and watch all my manifestations come
true. #14 What is your “must have” fashion item of the year? My must have fashion item of the year is outerwear. Must have a nice outerwear jacket/ coat. My favorite coat right now is the ‘’ Color me” coat on my website. Check it out at www.Miracleslabella. com. #15 Tell us one piece of advice you would give to someone starting
their own business in 2021. Be yourself, do your research, don’t rush the process and never be afraid to ask for help if its needed and keep your faith.
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“I have always wanted to be a business owner and own a clothing store or boutique. As a teenager my mother and her ex-boyfriend had a local urban store called “Cuse fashions.”
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{{{ SHE HUSTLES SHE SHIFT+CONTROL HUSTLES TALKS TALKS} }} “Researching, the eagerness of learning new information and when my creative juices are flowing it is hard for me to halt my thoughts so that’s what keeps me up at night.“
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