Interview with Lani Click, Owner and Designer, Palm Beach Purses & EcoChic Purses and Lani Click Consulting.

Tell us about your business.
Two of my businesses are purses. Palm Beach Purses are tropical and trendy. EcoChic Purses are “green fashion” with eco-friendly products. And, Lani Click Consulting involves strategic marketing, networking, and web site content. The target audience is primarily for women of all ages.

Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
I have an MFA in playwriting and pursued playwriting and teaching drama on a college level. I’ve had many interests that include Yoga, gardening, Zumba, charity work, working in my husband’s law office, and raising a family. I realized that being an entrepreneur provided a way of exploring human relationships with the added benefits of meeting new people, having freedom to test new ideas, and to have job security. Best of all, as an entrepreneur, you cannot be fired.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?
Both of my grandfathers were entrepreneurs and built successful family businesses. One was in manufacturing and the other in advertising. He was inducted into the NJ Advertising Hall of Fame for his contribution to that profession.

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?
One is being the Palm Beach Director for the Work-Life Balance Institute for Women.  And, another is being recognized by several groups across the country for my “green fashion” environmentally friendly purses.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
Our choices define us. Being an entrepreneur is not simply selling purses. Be charitable. Donate to your favorite causes. Ignite, inspire, and mentor young people. Share your ideas, wisdom, and enthusiasm. Explore the fun side of work. Passion and a wise heart result in a meaningful life. And, remember to have reverence for the earth and its resources.

What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?
Luck is when preparation meets opportunity. Always have a business plan but be prepared to change it when circumstances shift.

Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you succeed?
Three Books: Bonnie St.John, “Live Your Joy;” Malcolm Gladwell, “The Tipping Point;” Chip Heath and Dan Heath, “Made to Stick”

What is the Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
My business strategy is to increase sales through my online store in addition to my marketing and networking goals.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Sometimes you succeed just by showing up.

How can our readers find you online?

www.palmbeachpurses.com  www.ecochicpurses.com  www.laniclickconsulting.com

Lani Click on Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/people/Lani-Click/1521244758

Lani Click on Live Journal   http://fashionclicks.livejournal.com/
Lani Click on YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/FashionClicks
https://twitter.com/palmbeachpurses
 http://www.linkedin.com/laniclick
http://pbpurses.blogspot.com
http://laniclickconsulting.wordpress.com