Bossed up
/I am all for entrepreneurs paving a way for each other. Empowering their brands in hopes of growth and prosperity. I especially assist my women in the field. We have to work double as hard for all that we do. So I commend Carolina for all that she does and continues to build. May you all enjoy and take from her accomplishments. Below I have an interview I had the pleasure to conduct with Carol herself.
What makes you an entrepreneur?
Since a kid, I've always watched my mother sell things like furniture, household items, and clothes? I saw my grandmother buy perfume at English town (Flea market in New Jersey) and sell it at the factory she worked in. I saw my aunt work her way from a factory, to being the real estate expert that she is today. At the age of 8-9 I was living in Dominican Republic and waking up early to cook the kids pancakes. They didn't have them and were willing to pay me for mine. (Being an entrepreneur) I think it's in my blood, that of wanting to pursue financial freedom by way of providing products and services to others that need or want it.
How did you begin your careers/businesses?
"I come from a family of strong, hard working, go getter type women. My aunt Carmen who was a single mom did not settle. She got into real estate 15 years ago and I followed. At 17 I became her assistant. Shortly after my mother went into the furniture business; which also happen to be the family business in Dominican Republic. After one too many winters my parents decided to move to Florida (from New Jersey) and I picked up where she left off. I launched Jr and Jada's furniture after my children. I relocated to Florida in the fall of 2006. I waited a few years to hop back into real estate, considering the market and taking my mothers advice. I pursued my license a few years after, and received my license for Florida.In 2015 I decided to bring back my furniture company this time as 'Posh Decor LLC. I figured let me sell you a house AND the furniture. I am also currently working launching a cleaning service, I want to do it ALL." SN: Carol just started up a T-shirt company with lost of catchy phrases and words to match moods. And she is on a very RAW Podcast. Link below.
What are some of your daily tasks you tackle?
Checking emails, texts, voicemails, and replaying to inquiries for either, people wanting rentals, wanting to buy, or others wanting more information on a piece of furniture. I also take time to post ADs on my other social medias and applications. I am learning to add more to my website. I also spend time researching what promotions the competition is having. I am also looking into ways to offer financing for my customers.
Do you have a team you rely on?
Does me, myself and I count. I'm Dominican, we have multiple personalities (lol)
How does it feel to be a Latina business owner?
What obstacles have you overcame?
It makes me feel accomplished in a sense, but it also comes with responsibilities. Anyone can take a couple hundred bucks and LLC something and call themselves a business owner. And that's where obstacles come in. I want people to take me seriously. I want longevity and success. I want people to look at me and not see just a pretty face, or a fat booty. I want them to recognize me as a strong business woman. The same way I look at my grandmother, my aunt, my mom. I have a brain. I want my children to look at me and tell people, 'yep that's my mom.' I want to leave a legacy.
Do you have a title for yourself?
Hustler!
Are you someone who others can rely on
if they're on a budget?
Absolutely. My prices are very competitive; and you are buying quality furniture, which for me is the most important. I do not want my brand to be associated with anything that does not hold value. I pride myself in doing the best in anything I set out to do, and providing the best service I can, at the best prices. If something goes wrong, or you're not happy, please let me know so I can fix it, because my reputation means a lot to me. I offer layaway. I currently take cash, check debit and credit cards. Like I said I am in the mist of finding how to finance too.
What's next for Carol?
I am currently working on obtaining my broker's license, so be on the look out for that real estate office. I am wanting to go in the restaurant business with my long time friend Eddie Forbes, his food is amazing, but especially his jerk chicken it's my favorite.
How can others contact you?
I am on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Linked in. All my other contact information is on my website. Send me a DM, leave a comment, @ me. Hit the contact button in Instagram and call, text or email me.
Any last words to the readers?
I want everyone to know that you can do anything you want to do in life. But whatever you do, just be patient about it. Just do it. Don't let people talk you out of your dream, it's yours for a reason. Don't be afraid. Fear stopped me many times. It;s something I face daily. But you have to fight for what you want. You only get what you bargain for. Things aren't given to you. I'm passionate about real estate. I'm passionate about furniture. I love seeing homes come together. I'm passionate about real estate. I'm passionate (too passionate) about food. I am passionate about my family. I want to see my people win. I am not a hater, and although I look bitchy, I'm here to help anyone I can.
Believe me I know I took an intense hiatus from writing. But it feels great to be back and even better because I am writing about this Queen Carol and her accomplishments. I am grateful to be able to expose her businesses to the public. I love that she is such a hard worker; she does not only rely on one form of income. She is getting it from all sides, and looking into new things always. I know her family is very proud of the greatness she is a part of. I look up to her and the work she has put in. I hope that you all use some of her services in the future. Below I have all of her information. Keep kicking ass Carol, keep leading by example and adding value to your many brands. I look forward to working with you more in the future and empowering each other every chance we get. Remember to always "Love and allow to be loved.