Live YOUR brand....

Recently, I had the pleasure of attending presentations from two very influential women. Both were very successful entrepreneurs in completely different business areas but they possessed very similar characteristics such as determination, courage, passion, charisma and a can-do attitude. Their stories were inspirational and unquestionably had an impact on my thoughts on the future. It was refreshing to see hard-working and passionate people achieve extraordinary things unlike my last entry!

Firstly, we were introduced to Deirdre Collins, founder of Dee's Burgers. Based on an idea that Deirdre was very passionate about and a gap in the market that she found, Deirdre built her company up from a Farmer's Market stand to a range of products that can be bought in supermarkets and stores nationwide. She believed in her idea, worked hard at it and never gave up. Her success is remarkable and one of Deirdre's most flattering characteristic is her modesty. She is a down to earth woman who made her success happen. A surprising fact is that Deirdre started off her career in law.

Main Lessons Learned: Nothing is set in stone if you don't allow it to be. You have control over your future, your idea, your success and your life, however you choose to live it. You are your biggest obstacle and if you have the courage to overcome that, why can't you achieve the "impossible". 

Check out her website @ http://www.meatfreemondays.ie/dees_products.html

Secondly, we were introduced to Victoria Shorten. From her appearance on Come Dine With Me with the crazy "Itailian vegetarian" (in which she let us in on a few secrets on) to a brief knowledge on her PR company and jewellery line, I knew we were in for a unique and exiting tale. We were not let down in the slightest. From a marketing perspective, she was the highlight of the day for me. Setting up her successful PR company, Power PR, is a feat in itself.

Although, she did not stop there as Victoria had another passion for jewellery. She created her vision which resulted in VSL Luxury Jewellery. This story was the most inspirational of them all. It ranged from organising a launch party in a store on Beverly Hills to blagging her way into Lady Gaga's hotel to meet the superstar herself and hand her a specialized piece!! If your jaw hasn't dropped at how remarkable Victoria's courage and passion is, then you must have some sky high standards. What a woman!

From Fergie to Sophie Monk to Britney Spears' back up dancers!!

Paris Hilton, who bought this piece of her own accord!

From featuring in Berlin Fashion Week to Valencia Fashion Week, Victoria has found the opportunities and exploited them in an inspirational fashion. With her line about to feature in HARRODS, the sky is the limit for this exceptional entrepreneur.

One of my favourite pieces! Just WOW!

Main Lessons Learned: Live your brand! How do you see yourself? Which attributes and characteristics describe you?? Translate these to your idea or passion and breathe life into your brand. Take risks and sell it like only YOU can!

Check out her websites:

VSL JEWELLRY @ http://vsljewelry.com/index.php

Power PR @ www.powerpr.ie

Victoria Shorten @ http://www.vikkishorten.com/#dee/flickr

So although I may still be at a loss, I know if I keep working hard like these two remarkable entrepreneurs, live my brand and take the risks, I will achieve what I set out to do! I will never forget their stories! Fair play to them! :D