PeopleWhoProsper is excited to introduce you to another successful business woman. Gwen Frempong Boadu is the owner and designer of Gwyneth Shoes. After working for over 20 years in the designer shoe industry and wanting to start a family, Gwen took matters into her own hands and created her own line. Gwyneth Shoes was designed for women of all shapes and sizes, expanding to shoe size 14. Every Fall season, Gwyneth Shoes introduces a wide leg boot and has recently started a bridal line called, Blue by Gwyneth. Gwen's line is in boutiques around the country and also on Endless.com. I'm excited to share her story of perseverance and success. Enjoy!
1. Tell me your story. What were you doing before you started your own business?
Before Gwyneth was a vision, I worked as a design assistant for Sam & Libby (Sam Edelman), where I was eventually promoted to Sr. Designer before moving on to work with other powerhouse shoe companies like Kenneth Cole and Steve Madden.
2. What made you want to start a business and what is your mission?
After working for nearly 20 years and getting to see the world, my life was only about my career. I have always wanted kids, but it was impossible with my demanding schedule, so mainly out of a need for flexibility to start a family, Gwyneth was born. During my years in the industry, I always noticed especially in foreign countries, the awful shoes that tall women wore and the few choices they had to change it. So part of Gwyneth's mission was to create beautiful affordable and comfortable footwear for all women, including those that wear size 10 or more!
3. What inspires you? What keeps you motivated daily to keep growing your business?
My inspiration comes from many sources be it nature, art or life itself. I’m also inspired by the diverse culture and personal style of women from around the world. To keep Gwyneth evolving, I constantly challenge myself on how I can improve or create something new based on voids in my own closet and how they may relate to other women.
4. Do you have a mentor? Who is it and why? Do you believe it's important to have one?
I learned a lot from my first mentor in the industry Sam Edelman. He is one of the most creative people I've ever worked with. I’m still in contact with him today. I think it's extremely important to have someone teach you all the ins and outs that you may not normally be exposed to, it's a great way to expedite your professional growth. Often I approach new collections thinking, what will Sam's take on this be or asking myself, what would Steve (Steve Madden) do?
5. What would you tell someone who wants to get involved in your line of business but doesn't know how to get started?
The best place to get started is with the proper education or having a related background. Most companies require a bachelor's degree in fashion and or business. Of course it's a plus to have the necessary talent and experience as well.
6. What advice would you give to someone with an entrepreneurial spirit?
Anyone looking to start their own business must be extremely passionate about their craft. They should also be prepared to make sacrifices........
I would like to thank Gwen for sharing her story with us. I hope you have been inspired especially if you are an aspiring fashion designer. You can see the Gwyneth Shoes collection and visit the online store at www.gwynethshoes.com.
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Be someone’s motivation and tell us your story! To be featured on PeopleWhoProsper.com email Tamara@garrisonprosperitysolutions.com. Put PEOPLEWHOPROSPER in the subject line and share a little about yourself.
