We recently connected with Angelique Wong and have shared our conversation below.
Angelique , so many exciting things to discuss, we can’t wait. Thanks for joining us and we appreciate you sharing your wisdom with our readers. So, maybe we can start by discussing optimism and where your optimism comes from?
My optimism comes entirely from the people around me. My support system has always done a great job of creating a village around me even when I’m not giving myself enough time and attention. People forget how even small gestures of positivity can uplift someone’s spirits. Every time someone compliments my work ethic, and my garments, or even just pays attention to details about who I am, I am reminded that I am on the right track toward finding my purpose in this life. So I do my best to spread god energy into the world so whoever needs it can receive it.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
Artuza is focusing on special occasions and bridal moving forward. Many of the fashion shows and garments we have available for sale are going to focus on bringing together unique fabric combinations and hand-crafted design techniques to create one-of-a-kind pieces. We are participating in 4 fashion shows this season. The shows are always a great opportunity to connect with customers in person and build relationships with other creatives within the fashion community.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Perseverance, Research, and Planning. The early stages (which I am still in) can be filled with a lot of self-doubt, setbacks, triumphs, and learning lessons. It can be difficult to not compare yourself or feel overwhelmed. You have to constantly remind yourself of your why. Remind yourself of what inspires you to be creative. Research the tribulations of the people you look up to you cause many have been through endless struggles. Follow through on your risk to learn immediately and implement changes when you experience failures.
Research the business you want to get into as detailed as possible as you create your plan and next steps. The more information you collect, the easier it is to make an informed decision that you can put your faith behind. The journey is a difficult one but just a little easier if you prepare. Making a plan before making a move is so important. Once you’ve researched, then you want to figure out what actionable steps you can take. It’s better to overthink and plan than to feel unprepared and anxious. I have found that each time I learned a lesson, I was able to make better decisions that pushed me toward my next steps each time.
Thanks so much for sharing all these insights with us today. Before we go, is there a book that’s played in important role in your development?
Entrepreneurial Leap by Gino Wickman. In that book, he outlines the main personality traits that contribute to being a successful entrepreneur. These are non-negotiables and every single one resonated with who I am and the journey I’m on but I believe before starting a business, everyone should read that book. I think many entrepreneurs underestimate the immense amount of sacrifice and commitment building a business requires in all parts of life; mentally, physically, and financially.
You can shop Artuza in person at City Goods in Cleveland beginning October 2023.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artuzaclothing.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artuzaclothing/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artuzaclothing
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@artuzaclothing?lang=enhttps://
