Tag: entrepreneur

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Business Culture Entertainment Music NYC

Making Waves

Blonde Records’ Founder Rebecca Autumn Sansom (first left) Seeks Inclusivity with Wavy Awards.

OCTOBER 23RD, 2021 MARKED THE FIRST EVER WAVY AWARDS SHOW, the name making  a play on digital audio WAV files. The show is  a celebration of “historically excluded talent,”  including musicians that are women, members  of the LGBTQ+ community, and persons with  disabilities. As each presenter took the stage at  Abrons Arts Center, they leaned into the mic and  described themselves — their hair color, outfit, or  personal aesthetic — for blind audience members  and nominees. The awards also featured two  American Sign Language interpreters who  took turns interpreting the speeches and  performances. For the brainchild of Blonde Records Founder Rebecca Autumn Sansom, The  Wavy Awards marked an ending, as well as a new  beginning, in her career.  

Sansom never intended to get into the music  industry. She considers herself a “filmmaker  trapped in an artist’s body.” She was at Stanford  doing performance and theater when she met  “M the Myth,” an artist, collaborator, and then undergrad. “I’m a filmmaker, so I’m drawn to  captivating subjects. So really, I would just film  these people. And then I realized after helping  M with their music video campaign for ‘Let’s Get  Drunk Anyway,’ that cheerleading artists, filming  them, and encouraging their careers is a job  called management.” She formed Blonde Artist  Management in New York City, named after  Marilyn Monroe, with whom she identifies and  felt might have lived with different support and  management.  

For five years, Sansom ran Blonde Artist Management. This past year she also founded  and ran Blonde Records and Blonde Music News, a weekly NYC music podcast. The Wavys were a big step for Blonde and its mission, but  also for Sansom, who is the first to recognize her  own privileges and those whose lack of privilege  often leaves them out of the spotlight.  

The Wavy Awards was always going to be a pivot point for Sansom. “The Wavys was going to be my last grand gesture,” says Sansom, “and then I was going to gather information and see what the next steps were for Blonde.” 

Wavy Awards 2021. Photo by Stephanie Aguello.

The ball started rolling in December 2020,  after a year of weekly Blonde Music News episodes. “I told (my team) about this idea and how we have enough people, enough artists to have a pretty robust pool to glean  from.”  There were eleven people at the first meeting. Then the team started expanding, with partnerships with organizations like Rampd  (Recording Artists and Music Professionals with Disabilities), local news website Scenes from the Underground, and Shira Gans from the NYC Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment. By the time the event actually happened, Sansom and partners were staring down a full house. 

The response was overwhelming. The Wavys have gone from a one-off event, into an annual awards show. It helped Sansom find a new direction; she will continue to support her coterie of artists, but the Wavy Awards has become her flagship effort. Blonde Music News, for example, has rebranded as Wavy Music News. “New York is the creative capital of the world and draws a lot of diversity,” says Sansom, “I think creating accessible spaces is the most important thing we can do right now, with the momentum that we have.”

In addition to the Wavys, Sansom has a film, Reckoning with the Primal Wound, coming out in 2022. It has already been accepted into seven film festivals. DT

For more information on The Wavy Awards, visit thewavys.org.

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Business Finance NYC

5 Things That Make Doing Business in NYC Unique

5 Things That Make Doing Business in NYC Unique
lukasrod.darkroom.tech pexels


Being a center of business and development, New York City is recognized as a huge contributor to the growth of the US economy.

 

Entrepreneur lists NYC as one of the ten best cities to open a business for good reason— here’s why the Big Apple is still a major hub for startups today:

 

It’s a melting pot of cultures


NYC remains to be one of the most diverse cities in the US. If you believe in the impact of diversity in business, there’s no better place in the country to start your new venture. WE Forum shows that diversity does pay, with inclusive workplaces outperforming those without a mix of innovative ideas and cultural talent.


There’s a large pool of creative and tech talent



NYC has attracted a great number of talent, especially those in the creative and technology sectors. In 2017, NYC employed some 300,000 creatives and 130,000 tech professionals. Successful businesses are often founded on the talent and expertise of the people behind them, so anyone looking to achieve success with a skilled team will do well in the city.



It’s full of venture capitalists



There are more opportunities for external funding in the city. For entrepreneurs planning on opening a business in NYC, you’re in luck, as it is one of the top areas along with Silicon Valley when it comes to venture capital funding. As these investors fund businesses with potential for growth, be ready for the pitch of your lifetime.



The entrepreneurial network is vibrant and supportive



The state of New York has very supportive policies for new businesses. Entrepreneurs looking to start a limited liability company in New York can gain business training, assistance, and resources, as well as tax credits through the Employee Training Incentive Program.

Innovation is also a key focus, and NYC businesses are encouraged to collaborate with local universities for knowledge and technological resources. Industry experts also offer support through mentorship programs for business owners. 

An example of this is Oceans, a group of former big tech company employees who mentor new businesses on digital solutions to jumpstart their companies. Groups like these form a very stable foundation for the success of businesses in the city.

With its lively culture and the tremendous amount of support from government and private communities, it undeniably rings true that New York City is one great place for anyone who dreams of starting a business.

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Beauty Featured Finance NYC

Hawa Cosmetics Flawless Coverage

The coverage for female entrepreneurs receive is essential to expanding their impact and to get noticed. Therefore, as we wrap up one of our most difficult years 2020, we thought it fitting to highlight a brand that we feel deserves coverage.

Women from all industry’s, education, and ethnicity, every day are creating new products, start-up businesses, and cutting edge procedures from real estate, to cosmetics. These women are changing the way we view entrepreneurs, shop for new brands, and are showing determination, and fearlessness.

Hawa Cosmetics was created for its namesake, a working makeup artist, and model, with over a decade of being a makeup artist who saw first-hand women’s confusion and frustration at gimmicky products and confusing beauty regimes.

 

DTM: How did you come about creating a cosmetic company/brand?
CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: How I came about creating a cosmetic brand started with me working for major cosmetic companies. To name a few; Clinique, Dermablend, Bobbi Brown, Tom Ford Beauty, Sisley, and a few others that are under the Estée Lauder umbrella. I was a top Makeup artist and selling producer for the color lines. So it gave me an edge on what women were looking for. Which made it easy to create a brand.
DTM: How long have you been in the beauty industry?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: I’ve been a professional makeup artist for over 20yrs. Best time of my life!

DTM: What makes your brand stand out above the rest and what do you want our readers to know?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: What makes my brand stand out above the rest is that Hawa Cosmetics is made with quality. I select and create colors that really work on All skin tones. A line created by a working makeup artist who touches and talks to every client about her needs.

DTM: It looks like you’re a New Yorker, how has Covid affected your business? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: COVID has affected all businesses. But what I’ve learned is that you must stay open to reinventing yourself. I’ve learned that social media is my key to doing Supreme business.

DTM: If you could change one thing in the cosmetic/beauty industry what would it be?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: If I could change one thing in the industry it would be Creating a system where makeup artist can have virtue one on one consultations with clients to ensure excellent customer service.

DTM: What’s the best way for consumers to become educated on how cosmetics are made and what they should look for when purchasing cosmetics?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: The best way for customers to become educated in cosmetics is to utilize your PC. You can google everything today., I personally love YouTube, you receive so many reviews facts, and opinions on cosmetics. I Believe You should look for quality in products. I can not stress this enough. Drug store brands are Stepping up to High-end brands in this category.

DTM: Being a woman of color and selling makeup to different types of skin and color pigment, how difficult is that and is there a difference in the skin? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: Being a woman of color selling makeup to all women was easy for me. As I worked for major Cosmetic brands in Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman, Barnes, Neman Marcus, Saks, CosBar, and the Carlyle Hotel. These locations have had me Makeover every woman and man imaginable.

There is a difference in skin tones and texture but that comes with an expert eye.

DTM: When you were a little girl was that something you always played with and dreamed of make-up and beauty? 

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: As a little girl I would always play in my Grandma “Pascuala Vasquez makeup. My grandma RIP was born in the 1920s
I couldn’t wait for the day for me to shave off all of my Natural brows and draw them on with a jet black eyeliner pencil like her. Her vanity table was my dream., Loads of makeup, lipstick, and Perfume.
She was a lady.
DTM: What is all the hype about botanicals and what difference do botanicals make in skincare?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: The Hype of Botanicals stands true. Botanicals can make promising skincare. Natural Botanicals has anti-aging properties that help calm and firm skin. It can also help with acne, reducing redness and it’s ideal for soothing sensitive skin. There are so many benefits to natural plant extracts.

DTM: We’re thrilled to have you in the print Holiday gift guide for 2020, we have sampled your products and we enjoy them and feel that they’re good solid quality. The coverage is exceptional. Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers that we have not asked you?

CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul: We all at Hawa Cosmetics are ecstatic to be in the Holiday Gift Guide for 2020! I am happy that everyone has enjoyed the quality of the products. It means the world to me. I want to thank every woman who has poured into me their concern and need over the years that helped me to create a brand that all women will enjoy. 
“I want to thank the CEO Of Downtown Magazine Grace A. Capobianco for having me in this special issue. I would also like to thank my dear friend Marcia Nakaydo for believing in the brand. We have worked together in this beauty industry for years. Let’s have a wonderful Holiday. Thank you. CEO and Owner Hawa Abdul”
Categories
Beauty Featured Lifestyle Living

Downtown Q&A: Erika Wassner

ERIKA WASSNER Founder of Glam+Go, a female-owned and operated salon chain that specializes in speedy blowouts and hair services for busy women.

1. Name three women that inspire you, and tell us why.

Joan Rivers: I can’t say enough about this woman. She was so brazen, outspoken, and unapologetic, which I really admire. Her fearlessness helped pave a path for so many women to follow new opportunities in her wake. 

JK Rowling: I think everyone knows JK’s story of perseverance; it’s always so inspiring to remember her origin story and look to now as she’s the world’s first billionaire author. Oh, and I love the movies. 

My mom: She’s really the one who taught me that if you can see and envision it, you can have it.

2. What has been the secret to your success?

Always having a sense of purpose and a sense of humor—everything else is inconsequential.

3. If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?

Get married early (if that’s your thing). Dating as you get older and more advanced in your career is exhausting!! 

4. In the fight for equality, what area do you think needs the most attention?

We need to change our mindset of what makes a person successful, especially in the workplace. More value is placed on the person staying in the office until 9pm vs. the person who has to leave at 5pm to take care of children usually, even if the work output is generally the same. We are all important and value should really be placed on the quality of the work.

5. What are you most proud of in your career?

I’m really proud of how many jobs we’ve been able to create and that we employ 95% women. On both sides of our business, I’m really proud of how we’re creating places where people can come to be the best version of themselves, whether they work for us or are coming to get our services. On the employee side, we do everything from book clubs to professional development. By having the most well-rounded employees, we’re able to provide the best experience.  

6. Where do you get your confidence?

Vodka.

7. What makes a woman beautiful?

By believing she is. Henry Ford once said, “If you think you can, or you think you can’t, you’re right.” I think beauty is the same.  

8. What gives you joy?

Nothing is better than quality time with my family and friends. And every time I see my dog after I’ve been gone for more than 60 seconds.

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Business Dining Featured

Downtown Q&A: Ashley Tyrner

ASHLEY TYRNER is the founder of Farmbox Direct, which aims to provide healthy foods in urban areas. She is committed to providing all people access to organize food and disrupting the food policy space.

1. Name three women that inspire you, and tell us why.
I am inspired by my grandmother—she taught me my love of cooking; My daughter because she is so fierce! This kid will grow up to change this world, and Michelle Obama because she speaks her mind and always reminds you to stay above the negative.

2. What has been the secret to your success?

Hustle. That’s it. I had a hustle and a drive that never allowed me to believe I would fail. 

3. If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?

Spend a lot of time focused on yourself and being the best version of yourself before anything else in life like marriage and kids. You have to have a really comfortable relationship with yourself to be in business. You have to have a lot of faith in what you’re starting because people will try to bring you down. 

4. In the fight for equality, what area do you think needs the most attention?

EQUAL PAY! It is complete madness we are even having to fight for this! Why should I make less money than a man in my position just because I can bare a child and he can’t?  

5. What are you most proud of in your career?

There is so much I am proud of in my career! Going to the White House was huge for my career, equally when Sam Kass agreed to be an advisor to Farmbox Direct. Then there was that Infiniti car commercial I did, which was the 1st global campaign for Infiniti, and it was based around people making differences in our world. I am also very proud of the tough female this company has made me. 

6. Where do you get your confidence?

My daughter. I can’t fail. If I fail, she will see mommy failed. 

7. What makes a woman beautiful?

Confidence and being independent. 

8. What gives you joy?

A farmers market on a warm Spring day. A book, rainy weather, and a cup of tea on my couch—in that order! 

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Bars Dining Featured

Downtown Q&A: Allison Parc

ALLISON PARC Founder and president of Brenne French Single Malt Whisky, recognized as one of the leading American entrepreneurs in the world-whisky segment. Named World Whisky Brand Ambassador of the Year by Whisky Magazine’s  Icons of Whisky, USA, the only woman to receive the award.

1. Name three women that inspire you, and tell us why.

RBG – It can get overwhelming to know how to join a cause that you feel passionate about, and I’ve always been inspired by how early on Ruth Bader Ginsburg knew she wasn’t a “marcher,” but instead she focused in on how she could use her work to do her part in the women’s rights movement. She has continued to make changes at the highest level that are helping make this country a more balanced and safe place for all.

My Grandmother, Grace lived to be 102 years and never stopped learning until her final week. She also worked as a school teacher until they kicked her out for being “too old.” She would have continued to teach well into her 100’s had she been allowed. She taught me many things, one of which being is that the most interesting person in the room is one who is actively studying something (anything!). A passion for learning keeps you young, interesting, and fun.

Choosing a third is impossible. There are too many!

2. What has been the secret to your success?

Laser focus of the end goal, flexibility and agility in the ways in which we continuously work to get there, and the right balance of confidence and humility.

3. If you were going to pass on one piece of advice to a young woman, what would it be?

Never be discouraged; there is always a way to move forward. Whenever I start to feel discouraged, that’s when I take an afternoon off to go stroll through a museum or a park solo. I need to immerse myself in a world outside of whatever I’m focused on and feel humbled by the immense creations that others have done before me. It’s usually in remembering that there are thousands of avenues to create in life that I start to unlock the creative solutions to solve my current challenges.

4. In the fight for equality, what area do you think needs the most attention?

First and foremost: equal pay for equal jobs. As a society, we are only going to grow together if we can have better communication across all of the aisles/sides. We need to be able to really hear each other and build a stronger tomorrow together. 

5. What are you most proud of in your career?

1) Having actually created something that people enjoy.

2) Being the first woman to accomplish certain milestones.

3) Many people now see the bright future of my company. It’s great when it shifted from me telling people why Brenne is so important to them telling me. I smile and think internally, “Yeah, welcome aboard my friend!”

6. Where do you get your confidence?

From my gut. 

7. What makes a woman beautiful?

Confidence.

8. What gives you joy?

Too many things to list! But writing that list over a glass of Brenne Whisky would be a lovely way to start!