Meet Veronica Ariza

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Veronica Ariza. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Veronica below.

Hi Veronica, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

I found my true purpose when I was 22 years old. I was a single mother juggling work, school and motherhood. When my son was 2 I was struggling to get to and from work and school. I had no car so I took the bus everywhere. Being a young mom had its challenges. I couldn’t find a babysitter so I went from working full time to 1-2 days a week. I come from a family of artists so I know it’s always been in me to be able to draw etc. At this time a lightbulb went off and I had the idea to apply for a Paypal credit card so I can buy some crafting supplies to support my son. I bought supplies such as fabric, hair clips, party bags and construction paper. My idea was to make some hairbows that were Disney themed, as well as make party decorations. I posted on craigslist and offerup and to my surprise it worked. I started getting orders and being able to build my portfolio. My small business just kept growing, I eventually stopped doing Disney items and started doing Halloween themed. I always worked and did this on the side until covid happened. I got laid off because our company slowed down. So I was able to focus on my business 100%, this was the best thing that could have happened for my family. Every year I just kept growing and growing. I started doing cons and events bigger and bigger. Finding my purpose was definitely a huge accomplishment for me, it was very much unplanned. Finding my purpose started with an idea. Today I am a stay at home mom and business owner. It has been such a dream. Being my own boss, making my own hours, knowing I will not miss out on anything in my sons life again. I’m extremely blessed to be where I am today and I wouldn’t want it any other way. I’ve worked so hard to get here and I’m so proud of me.

Let’s take a small detour – maybe you can share a bit about yourself before we dive back into some of the other questions we had for you?

My small business is a huge part of my life. It’s not just a business, or a job, it’s my passion, it’s my creation, and it’s me. I put my heart and soul into everything I do for my business. I hand make all my items. There’s something for everyone in my shop. From cell phone accessories, hair accessories, pins, stickers, handbags, keychains, jewelry, tumblers etc. The list goes on. My goal is to spread my art around the world. How amazing that my art is bought from people everywhere. Buying from my small business, your buying a piece of my soul. Every time I get an order online I do a little happy dance. This year has been so busy for my small business, from events, to product launches, expanding my inventory etc. I have one event left for the year, super excited to take a break. Events back to back have been so crazy, excited to take a little break until next year. I have started working on inventory for next year. I have so many new items dropping next year that I’m currently preparing for. SO stay tuned you definitely don’t want to miss out.

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?

As a small business owner and artist, three essential qualities, skills, and areas of knowledge can significantly contribute to your success. First, possessing a strong creative vision is crucial; it allows you to think innovatively and develop unique ideas that set your work apart, while proficiency in your chosen medium ensures you can execute your artistic concepts effectively. Second, having solid business acumen is vital for navigating the complexities of running a business; this includes financial management skills for budgeting and pricing your art, as well as a deep understanding of marketing strategies to promote your work. Lastly, communication and networking skills are indispensable, enabling you to build meaningful relationships with clients and collaborators. Effective communication, both verbal and written, will help you articulate your artistic vision, while knowledge of social media and networking opportunities can expand your reach and connect you with potential customers. By honing these qualities and skills, you can thrive as both an artist and a small business owner just like I have. And most importantly do not give up, you can do this. If I could so can you. Be consistent in everything you do.

Any advice for folks feeling overwhelmed?

When I’m feeling overwhelmed, it’s essential for me to implement effective strategies to regain control and reduce stress. I start by prioritizing and organizing my tasks, I establish clear boundaries for work hours to avoid burnout, and make time for breaks so I can recharge. I also stay connected with fellow entrepreneurs friends. We’re all always facing the same artists block days. So I keep in touch with them because we support each other, and give each other ideas etc. I try to focus on one task at a time to enhance productivity and set realistic, achievable goals, celebrating small wins along the way. Additionally, I limit distractions and prioritize self-care by ensuring I eat well, exercise, and get enough sleep. I set my week by giving my self room to work and room to create content. Otherwise I will be all over the place and definitely burn myself out.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.roniveesboutique.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/roniveesboutique_/
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@roniveesboutique

Image Credits

Joshua Ejedawe
Hayden Ariza
Angelina Chavez