We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Eleni Angelis a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Eleni, so glad you were able to set aside some time for us today. We’ve always admired not just your journey and success, but also the seemingly high levels of self-discipline that you seem to have mastered and so maybe we can start by chatting about how you developed it or where it comes from?
Being a business owner demands a high level of self-discipline day in & day out. It’s not always glamorous, but the result is worth every moment. My source of self-discipline lies in a profound respect for the responsibility I’ve taken on with building out a business – the commitment to my vision and those who depend on the success such endeavors.
The discipline I bring to my work is a result of lessons learned and the acknowledgment that every decision carries weight. It’s not about being rigid; it’s about adhering to a framework that allows for adaptability and growth.
Owning a business is a marathon, not a sprint. Self-discipline is the training regimen that ensures I have the stamina to endure. It’s the ability to make strategic choices, even when faced with tempting detours. The seriousness of my self-discipline is reflected in the understanding that every action today shapes the landscape of tomorrow.
The rewards of self-discipline are not always immediate, but they are profound. It’s the satisfaction of seeing a well-executed plan unfold, and the realization of a vision that was once just a seed. Ultimately, my self-discipline is the silent force that underlines the gravity of entrepreneurship, turning the journey into a purposeful and rewarding venture.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
When I first started out, I knew that I wanted to create a brand that was different from anything else out there. I wanted to create a brand that would stand out and that would offer customers something truly unique. To do this, I first began the brand as a “Personal Shopping” service. The main goal was to pivot the brand to a full-service Home Decor & Seasonal company. I knew that I would have to put in a lot of time and effort to make this happen. There truly were no days off during the first year and a half of building the brand. I believe that all the time spent on the back end led me to be able to create the meticulous experience we now offer customers with Dunn Deals Home Decor in every aspect of the brand.
Working in the home decoration industry, with a large focus on seasonal items, we are constantly seeing pieces being “re-invented” and trends shifting constantly. In this industry we are doing our purchasing for the next season 12-14 months in advance. It is truly special to see the change in seasonal pieces from one year to the next.
I am excited to continue to grow and evolve in the future. I am always looking for new ways to improve and innovate and will continue to strive to be the best in every aspect of the business.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Reflecting on the journey, three pillars have stood tall, illuminating the path in building my business. The first is the unwavering commitment to being fully immersed in the entrepreneurship aspect. it’s a plunge into the deep waters of dedication. The moments of seeing your vision take shape, are the ones that truly define the journey.
The second critical element is the readiness to jump in at any moment. Building a business is like being on call 24/7, and success often hinges on the ability to navigate unexpected challenges with grace. It’s about being agile and responsive, ready to pivot when needed and tackle unforeseen obstacles head-on. The willingness to roll up the sleeves and dive in will always set you apart in your business.
A third indispensable quality is having a discerning eye for the products you’re selling. It’s not just about transactions; it’s about curating an experience. To build a business that resonates, you must intimately know and love what you’re offering. This passion radiates through every aspect of the venture, from product selection to customer engagement. It’s the driving force that turns a business from a mere transactional entity into a long lasting friendship with each client.
Looking back, it’s clear that these qualities aren’t just tools in the toolbox – they are the very foundation upon which the success of the business is built. The journey is not for the faint of heart, but with these pillars in place, the view becomes all the more rewarding.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely, We’re always on the lookout for like minded individuals who bring a fresh perspective to the world of home decor – whether you’re an artist, designer, or enthusiast with a unique flair for aesthetics. If you find joy in curating spaces that tell stories and believe in the transformative power of well-designed environments, we’re already on the same page.
If you’re reading this and you feel the excitement of unique home decor, let’s join forces. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a budding talent, we believe that the magic happens when passionate minds come together. Looking forward to the possibility of turning dreams into reality with you!
Simply drop us a line through our website or shoot us an email at contact@elenishops.com – Share a snippet of your passion, a glimpse of your portfolio, or just your favorite home decor anecdote – we’re all ears (and eyes)! Let’s create something beautiful together and make homes not just spaces but reflections of unique stories.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.elenishops.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/dunndeals_
- Facebook: www.dunndealsvip.com
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@_dunndeals
Image Credits
They are all my own photos
