We were lucky to catch up with Brenda Gonzalez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Brenda, thanks for joining us today. Risking taking is a huge part of most people’s story but too often society overlooks those risks and only focuses on where you are today. Can you talk to us about a risk you’ve taken – it could be a big risk or a small one – but walk us through the backstory.
I took risks giving up my stable, day job in the financial services industry into owning my own business in Fashion. It was a leap of faith, but I believed in my self, knew I had what it took, and when all else failed, life pushed me into this direction.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Hey there! I’m Brenda Gonzalez, and I wear many hats – I’m an Entrepreneur, the Founder of Styled By B, a Creative Director, Producer, and the proud Author of the #1 best-selling book “Styled by Independence: A Woman’s Journey To Self Discovery Through Adversity.” As a mother of two, I intimately understand the time constraints and demands that women face in their numerous commitments.
Styled By B stands out because it is not just a styling service; it’s a movement dedicated to providing seamless, empowering, and efficient dressing experiences, specifically tailored for boss women. I place a strong emphasis on feminine style, helping women connect with their inner femininity and beauty. It’s about more than just fashion; it’s about empowering women to feel confident and beautiful in their attire.
My journey into the fashion and personal styling industry began in 2019, where I identified a need for women to navigate fashion effortlessly within their busy lives. Beyond personal styling, I’ve ventured into creative directing and producing, culminating in orchestrating a #nyfw fashion show in just three weeks. What sets Styled By B apart is the unwavering commitment to redefine how women experience fashion, making it an empowering journey that goes beyond aesthetics. I take pride in being a respected figure, dedicating myself to empowering women through the art of style and celebrating the beauty found in life’s chaotic moments.
So, whether you’re a boss woman seeking a unique styling experience or someone looking to connect with their inner beauty, Styled By B is here to make your fashion journey both empowering and beautiful.
Cheers,
Brenda Gonzalez
What’s a lesson you had to unlearn and what’s the backstory?
I had to unlearn having ego. I spent over a decade in the financial services industry and within that time, i became an expert in my field. I had been well-respected in my places of business as i was good at doing my job and had a developed a well-rounded knowlege of the business. I’d taken professional development courses and certificates – some required and by choice.
So, when I made a career change, I had to learn to put behind me everything I had already accomplished and mentally prepare to start from the ground up – all over again. It was a difficult mental transition more than anything else. In NYC the opportunities are everywhere, you just have to position yourself to recieve them.
Any advice for managing a team?
Making people feel welcomed, comfortable, constant words of affirmation, respect others talent – especially when they have skills you personally do not possess.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.styledbyb.net
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imstyledbyb/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendagpersonalstylistnyc/
Image Credits
Babs Photography LLC Agne Sopyte Photography