Toni Purry's Page

What is your name?

Toni Purry

Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?

Yes

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

Purry Communications Group

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

I studied public relations in college and have worked in the industry for over 15 year and enjoyed tremendous success but began to feel the corporate climb lacked a sense of fulfillment so, I decided to launch my own PR agency. At the risk of sounding cliche, I wanted more ability to create a work environment where employees felt growth was nurtured by challenge, talents were acknowledged and even honed and clients could clearly sense our zeal and passion for what we do. So my idea was birthed out of a desire to do and be more!

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

Los Angeles, CA

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

http://www.purry.com

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

I launched my company in December of 2007; however, I was in business for myself for nearly five years a couple years ago.

How many employees do you have, if any?

1-5

What is your annual revenue?

$100K-$250K

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

We are a full service public relations agency that provides media and publicity relations, corporate development, marketing communications crisis management, and video solutions for clients in a range of industries including lifestyle, hospitality and travel, corporate and non-profit.

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?

The biggest hurdle was leaving the security of an executive level position to venture into the world of entrepreneurship...again. I'd been a business owner before and was all too familiar with the challenges and struggles of owning and running a business but after tremendous prayer, solid business counsel and encouragement from friends and colleagues, I made the decision to go for it again and I am absouletely thrilled!

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

I'd say...
Pick a niche market that you really enjoy working and stick with it.

PR is all about who you know and how resourceful you can be so be sure you have a nice healthy roster of media contacts before you step out.

Realize 'it takes a village' so don't be afraid to ask for help. It is not a sign of weakness.

And while I highly encourage seeking counsel, I also firmly believe you must have the courage and confidence to allow YOUR inner voice have the final say.

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What has been your biggest mistake?

My biggest mistake has been not selling myself with as much vigor as I sell my clients. As a PR person, my job is to make my clients shine but in promoting myself, I was challenged because I've always allowed my hard work and results to speak for me. I've had to learn to position myself for growth and success by becoming my own best client. Had to learn to toot my own horn so, toot toot!

What has been your smartest move?

Creating what I call my volunteer "corporate advisory team." It's a pool of people that I have known professionally for a long time that offer advice on everything from the look of my corp. identify to the message of my proposals. You will be surprised at how many of your friends and colleagues will jump in and cheer you on, especially, as your are starting out. It's been a blessing!

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

Yes

What is your email address?

Toni.Purry@Purry.com