We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Mechelle Tucker a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Mechelle, so excited to talk about all sorts of important topics with you today. The first one we want to jump into is about being the only one in the room – for some that’s being the only person of color or the only non-native English speaker or the only non-MBA, etc Can you talk to us about how you have managed to be successful even when you were the only one in the room that looked like you?
As a double minority woman and a full-time serial entrepreneur, I have often found myself as the only person in the room who looks like me. This experience has profoundly shaped my approach to business and success, enabling me to cultivate a “win-win-win” mindset that has proven to be highly effective in my journey.
1. Emphasizing Mutual Benefit: At the core of my “win-win-win” mindset is the belief that true success isn’t just about personal gain; it’s about creating opportunities that benefit all parties involved. When I engage in discussions or partnerships, I prioritize finding solutions that uplift not just myself but also my collaborators and the community at large. This approach fosters trust and opens the door to more meaningful relationships.
2. Leveraging Diverse Perspectives: Being the only one in the room has taught me the importance of valuing diversity in thought and experience. I actively seek input from others and encourage different viewpoints, understanding that innovation often stems from collaboration. By creating an environment where everyone feels seen and heard, I position myself as a leader who inspires collective success.
3. Cultivating Resilience: The challenges that come with being a double minority have fortified my resilience. I’ve learned to view setbacks not as barriers, but as opportunities for growth. When faced with adversity, I remind myself that every obstacle is a chance to refine my vision, strengthen my strategies, and emerge more powerful. This mindset has been crucial in maintaining momentum, regardless of the circumstances.
4. Continuous Learning and Adaptation: My entrepreneurial journey requires me to stay adaptable and open to learning. I actively seek out mentorship, professional development, and feedback from peers, acknowledging that knowledge is a key driver of success. By remaining curious and eager to grow, I can turn challenges into stepping stones towards greater achievements.
5. Championing Representation: My presence as a double minority in the business world emphasizes the importance of representation. I strive to be a role model for others by sharing my story and the lessons I’ve learned along the way. By doing so, I create a ripple effect that encourages other aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams, knowing that their unique backgrounds are valuable assets.
6. Maintaining Positivity: A win-win-win mindset is rooted in positivity. I focus on the possibilities rather than obstacles. Maintaining an optimistic outlook breeds creativity, allowing me to envision innovative solutions and seize opportunities that others might overlook. This positive energy not only inspires my team but also resonates with clients and collaborators.
In conclusion, being the only one in the room has been both a challenge and a blessing. My commitment to a “win-win-win” mindset has empowered me to navigate my entrepreneurial path with confidence and purpose. By creating inclusive, mutually beneficial environments, I contribute to a landscape where diversity flourishes, and success is redefined to encompass collective growth.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Who I Am and My Brand Story
I am a passionate entrepreneur, dedicated to empowering individuals and communities through my diverse ventures. As a double minority woman, my journey has been shaped by resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. My brand embodies these values, reflecting my aspiration to be at the forefront of innovation and service while uplifting those around me. Under the banner of “1st Class,” I operate several businesses, including 1st Class Candles, 1st Class Boutique, 1st Class Notary, 1st Class Consultant, and the Mechelle Cares Foundation.
Each of these branches has a unique mission but is anchored by a common thread: a commitment to quality and care.
1st Class Candles began during Covid with a simple idea: to create products that not only smell fantastic but also promote a sense of well-being and tranquility. I take pride in sourcing sustainable materials and crafting candles that resonate with my values of health and environmental consciousness. What excites me most about this line is not just the fragrance, but the warmth and ambiance they bring to people’s homes—a little spark of happiness, especially during challenging times.
1st Class Boutique evolved from my desire to promote 1st Class Candles and empower self-expression through fashion. We offer a curated selection of stylish yet affordable clothing and accessories that empower individuals to feel confident in their skin. The thrill of launching a new collection is palpable, and I love hearing customer feedback, which inspires us to continually innovate. Fashion is an ever-evolving landscape, and my boutique strives to stay ahead of the curve by regularly introducing unique pieces that cater to diverse tastes.
1st Class Notary and 1st Class Consultant were born from my realization that there is an increasing need for reliable and professional services in the community. The notary service aims to make important legal processes seamless and accessible, while my consulting services focus on helping small businesses navigate their challenges and find opportunities for growth. The satisfaction of seeing clients succeed as a result of my guidance fills me with purpose and reinforces my belief in the power of collaboration.
My philanthropic side is channeled through the Mechelle Cares Foundation, which embodies my commitment to giving back and uplifting underserved communities. Through various initiatives, we strive to provide education, resources, and support to empower individuals to chase their dreams and break the cycle of poverty. Events like the The Money Mixer, The Power of the Stamp and Million Dollar Mingle are not just fundraisers; they are platforms for connection, collaboration, and empowerment, bringing people and businesses together to celebrate success and foster community development.
As my brand continues to expand, I am excited to announce the opening of our new office suites in north central Phoenix, which will serve as a collaborative space for entrepreneurs and creatives to come together. This new venture is about more than just physical space; it’s about building a community of support and nurturing innovation. I envision these suites as a hub where ideas can flourish and entrepreneurs can find the resources they need to succeed.
In summary, my brand story reflects more than just business ventures; it is a testament to my passion for uplifting others and making a difference in the world. Each endeavor is carefully crafted with love, dedication, and an understanding of the needs of my community. As I continue on this entrepreneurial journey, I remain committed to making a meaningful impact, one venture at a time.
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?
Looking back on my entrepreneurial journey, three qualities that have been most impactful are resilience, adaptability, and a commitment to continuous learning. Each has shaped my path and allowed me to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.
1. Resilience: The ability to bounce back from setbacks has been crucial. There have been numerous challenges, from market fluctuations to unexpected obstacles in launching products. I advise aspiring entrepreneurs to develop a strong mindset. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity and stay focused on your goals. Journaling or reflecting on past challenges can help reinforce this mindset.
2. Adaptability: The business landscape is ever-changing, and my ability to pivot in response to new trends and customer feedback has been vital. I encourage early-stage entrepreneurs to stay observant and open-minded. Experiment with new ideas or approaches, and don’t be afraid to adjust your strategy based on what you learn. Keeping a pulse on the industry through networking and research is essential.
3. Continuous Learning: A commitment to personal and professional growth has enriched my understanding of different aspects of business. I suggest seeking out knowledge through books, podcasts, online courses, and mentorship. Engage with communities of like-minded individuals who can provide insights and support.
For those just starting, my key advice is this: embrace growth and remain curious. Surround yourself with supportive networks, seek feedback, and continuously strive to improve—all of these qualities will empower you to not only overcome challenges but to thrive in your entrepreneurial journey.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
I am always excited about the possibility of partnering and collaborating with like-minded individuals and organizations who share a passion for empowerment, innovation, and community impact. My entrepreneurial journey is grounded in uplifting others, and I believe that collaboration is a powerful way to achieve that goal.
Who I’m Looking to Collaborate With:
1. Creative Entrepreneurs: I often seek out fellow creators—whether in fashion, art, or design—who are interested in exploring innovative ways to enhance brand experiences and drive meaningful connections with consumers.
2. Nonprofits and Community Organizations: Partnerships with organizations that focus on social impact resonate deeply with my mission through the Mechelle Cares Foundation. I’m eager to collaborate on initiatives that provide support and resources to underserved communities.
3. Business Mentors and Consultants: Those who can provide valuable insights into business growth strategies, marketing, or operational efficiency are always welcome. I value knowledge-sharing opportunities that can help elevate both our ventures.
4. Influencers and Content Creators: Individuals looking to promote positive narratives around entrepreneurship, diversity, and empowerment through social media are perfect collaborators. Together, we can amplify our messages and reach a broader audience.
How to Connect:
If you resonate with any of the above categories and want to explore potential collaboration, I invite you to reach out! You can connect with me via:
– Email: [email protected] – This is the best way to start a conversation. Please share a brief overview of who you are, your ideas for collaboration, and how it aligns with my win win win mission.
– Social Media: Connect with me on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook. I love engaging with others and sharing thoughts on entrepreneurship and community building.
– Events: Keep an eye out for events I host, such as the Power of the Stamp and Million Dollar Mingle. These gatherings are excellent opportunities for us to meet in person, exchange ideas, and explore potential partnerships.
I’m genuinely excited about the synergies that can arise from collaboration, and I look forward to connecting with motivated individuals who are ready to make an impact together!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.1stclassconsultant
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mechellesecrets/profilecard/?igsh=dngzbGZ3d2R4bjJn
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mechelletucker?mibextid=LQQJ4d
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mechelletucker?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
