Miami Fempreneurs
by Benjamin Leis on July 07, 2011
Meet two Miami Fempreneurs that are rocking the 305. Susset Cabrera of Peacock Public Relations and Alina Balean, the graphic designer responsible for many of our Sweat EquiTee designs.
SE: When and how did you come to start your own PR company?
SC: I decided to start my own business after completing my Masters in Public Relations from the University of Miami. It was a combination of a rough economy and an opportunity to work with my very first client. I feel very lucky to have the support of my family who always encourage me to follow my dreams. My father is an entrepreneur so starting my own business was always on my "to-do-list." It is a career path that keeps challenging me and I love the thrill. Bring it on...
SE: You get lots of Twitter lovin'. What are your secrets for fostering such love in only 140 characters?
SC: Honesty is literally the best policy. I make sure to stay true to my own voice. I think people will ultimately be drawn to what you have to say. I don't like to bombard my followers with useless chatter. I try to share helpful articles about my industry and I love to spread the word about upcoming events in Miami. It's important to attract new followers by using hashtags and to interact with those who already follow your conversations.
SE: So what's the single best piece of advice you have for #youngentrepreneurs trying to start their own #PR biz?
SC: Make sure you're dedicated to your vision. People will always try to discourage you or detract you from your path. Remain strong and know that the world will make room for your business to flourish. Mark your territory and go!
SE: You didn't study graphic design in college. How did you get turned on to it?
AB: Senior year in high school actually. I took two, too many basic computer classes (my parents moved me to 3 different high schools) so naturally being that the computer teacher was also the school's graphic designer (tiny school) I was to report next door and was taught photoshop instead of another [painful] year of Excel. I did a few projects for the school and from there I started to freelance in college and continued to learn more and more programs. I completed a degree in creative advertising and started my design business - as any natural member of my family (LLCs and INCs run through our blood like water through Niagara Falls).
SE: Sounds fampreneurtastic. What are some of your favorite places to find inspiration?
AB: Pinterest, Dribbble, National Geographic (nature's always the best inspiration, freedom of movement and color).
SE: What's your favorite part about seeing your designs being worn?
AB: It's a special feeling, like seeing your child go off to kindergarten; pride, joy, excitement.
