Nya Edward Nash is the Owner of The Purple Cottage  This is her interview.

Tell us about your business (what product or service you provide and who your target audience is)

We are a 3 bedroom vacation home in the south of the island of St. Lucia providing short term rental to individuals at an affordable cost. The home is in the town of Soufriere a mere 5 minutes away from the Soufriere Beach Park and offers views of the majestic Pitons. Our target audience are vacationers looking for relaxing, comfortable space that they do not need to share with other guests.

Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?

I became an entrepreneur in the real estate business because of having to constantly move around with my husband who is in the military. I then decided that instead of selling the houses I could turn them into short term or long term rentals. Being a business owner means that I get to do what I love by providing amazing services to others and putting a smile on their faces. It also means that I get the freedom and flexibility I need to pursue my vision which feels me with an overwhelming sense of pride.

What or who has been your greatest influence in business and why?

My greatest influence in business has been Chi Ta (@chitabnb) an influencer on Instagram. He is a great source of information and advice and motivates others by providing them with ways in which they could make their home rentals a success.   

What would you say is your greatest professional accomplishment to date?

I would say that my greatest accomplishment was beginning my business and developing my homes especially The Purple Cottage. Being able to witness the improvements from what it was to what I have made it become has brought me a great joy. There were times when I felt like giving up as there was nothing to keep me motivated but with will power, I persevered.

What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?

The best advice I have received and want to pass on is “just do it and get it done” and “if anyone can do it then so can I”. These have helped me by keeping me motivated and helped me to not procrastinate.

What has been the most effective marketing initiatives or programs you have used to promote your business?

The most effective marketing programs that I have used are Instagram and Airbnb and the most effective marketing initiatives have been doing promotions to increase awareness of my business.

What one thing have you learned as a small business owner that has served you well over the years?

One thing that I have learnt, and that has served me well over the year, is that in order to persevere you need to be determined and persistent.

Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?  

To help with running my business I have used YouTube, Pinterest and vloggers on Instagram like @chitbnb. They are a great source for ideas and DIY projects to help save on costs.

Do you have any new projects coming up (or have you just completed a big project ~ reached a milestone, etc.)? If so, please tell us about it.

Currently we are in the process of purchasing another property in the north of the island so that individuals can mix and match their staying experience.

What do you do for fun/relaxation?

I love to travel and experience different cultures.

What is Number One Business Goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?

My number one business goal is to increase footpath in my business in order to increase my profit margin.

To improve the décor of my home and make it more appealing and attractive to customers and also to improve the standard of service provided.

You want to write a book on  Travel since it is something I love doing. Letting people know the best places to stay and what attractions they should visit.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers?

We offer a 5% discount on your first booking with us

What’s the best way for the readers of WE Magazine for Women to connect with you?

Phone: (758) 484-9928/ (786) 239-0550

IG: @thepurplecottageslu

FB: The Purple Cottage Slu