Addy Perez-Mau's Page

What is your name?

Addy Perez-Mau

Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?

Yes

If you are in business, what is the name of your business?

Heaven Sent Jewelry/ Business Consultant- Institute for Women Entrepreneurs/Speaker

Where did you get your idea for your business or the business you'd like to start?

After being laid of from my dream job in the IT Field with EDS (Electronic Data Systems-Global IT Co), I decided to stay home with my children. There were two great opportunities but they required much travel and would leave less than two hours on a daily basis with my children. I was torn and went with my gut feeling... it turned out to be a blessing!

A friend invited invited me to a jewelry grand opening; my world changed after I saw the brillance and beauty of Swarovski Crystal.

Having my own business while taking care of my one year old and 2 year old seemed to be heaven sent!.

Where is (will) your business located? (City and State)

Fountain Valley, CA

If you already have a website, what is the address for your business?

http://www.heavensentjewelry.com

How long have you been in business? (Or when do you plan to open?)

Since 2003

How many employees do you have, if any?

1-5

Describe your product or service, or the product you plan to introduce to the market.

My specialty is my hand-crafted swarovski book marks. This idea allowed me to stay in business and attract high profile clients, brand my business and become known internationally!. :-) I also have designed various other products such as pet jewelry, wine charms... In addition, I carry various other products purse hook, key finders, hats, pins, card holders/cases and I Pod cases.

How did you (or plan to) fund your business startup?

personal savings

What was (is) the biggest hurdle in getting your business off the ground?

Time .... raising two little babies while trying to start a business left little time for sleep. My hubby travels a great deal so it was extremely hard...
Faith and Prayer gave me the strength to carry on my mission. During the hard times... I reminded myself why I wanted to start my business.... Steve Covey "Begin with the End in Mind"

What would you advise other women interested in starting a similar business?

Take the time to do a business plan. Seek out free advice from the SBA, SCORE, IWE (Institute of Women Entrepreneurs), attend work shops, network with organizations that will assist you and partner up with other women. Become the expert in your field, always have a burning passion about your business and always promote, promote, promote.

What has been your biggest mistake?

Trying to do too much with little time. I've learned to say no, evaluate each activity, ask the right questions, and see how each action fits to your overal business plan. Do your actions target your market?

What has been your smartest move?

Thinking out side the box. My philosophy is win-win... and so many wonderful things have resulted . Entrepreneurship teaches you to survive by being bold, creative and innovative. The use of technology has been one of my greatest resources. I do not give up... patience is truly a virtue. I never think of what I do not have but what could be. Each day, I take steps that bring me closer to my goal .

Are you willing to answer questions from other women business owners about your business?

Yes

What is your email address?

hsjewels@msn.com