Entrepreneurship is in my blood. It’s what brought my family to North Carolina.
When I was very young, my parents decided to pivot from what I would describe as traditional careers to embrace a life of entrepreneurship and self employment. It created a freedom for our family that included them in the bleachers at all of my games, in the audience at any school performance, and at home to hear about my day and know what was going on in my life and my sister’s life.
They volunteered as coaches (yes, Dad, I can still hear you coaching me, “Either the ball gets by you or the girl, never both,” on the sidelines of a soccer game or yelling, “HANDS UP,” from the stands at my basketball games), chaperoned field trips, and always answered the phone when a friend was in need of a ride to school after they missed the bus.
As an adult, I now realize what a balancing act they managed. We talked often in our home about the value of a dollar, about working for what you have, and about how the choices you make every day demonstrate your true priorities.
In 1997, my parents moved our family from central Massachusetts to Mebane, North Carolina. It was quite a culture shock and I was a less than willing participant who admittedly made it more challenging for them at every turn. Today, I look back and recognize it as a critical decision that created long-term opportunity for our family.
The resilience that my parents instilled, the values of hard work, asking for the business, communicating, and managing finances, are what make this leap into self employment less scary. Having the opportunity to be there for my children, who are about to turn four and five, like my parents were there for me, makes it especially exciting.
I am proud to launch a public affairs and strategic communications business. Working for Patty Briguglio who made it a practice to only take one client per industry, followed by 13 years at the NC Chamber representing the broad-based business community, positions me well to help you achieve your goals in the world of external affairs.
I am excited to count the NC Chamber as my first client and looking to engage more in the coming weeks and months. I humbly ask you to keep me in mind as you look to amplify your messages and better engage your stakeholders. Whether you need short-term support to cover a gap or a long-term strategic engagement, I would love to explore whether I am the right solution for you.
Stay well, friends. And, as always, thanks Mom and Dad, I love you.
Congratulations! With the support you have, I know you will do well. Whenever I have a moral decision to make, I still think, “What would Sandy do?” Good luck.
That is certainy a worthwhile filter to put on any major decision. I am very lucky. Thanks, Mrs. P!