Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Chloe Cruz. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Chloe , looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. So, let’s imagine that you were advising someone who wanted to start something similar to you and they asked you what you would do differently in the startup-process knowing what you know now. How would you respond?
I don’t think I would change much about my journey. I believe that everything happens for a reason and that I am exactly where I am supposed to be. However, if I had to choose one thing, I would have done more planning before starting my business. When I first started out, I was very curious about entrepreneurship and just dove right in without much preparation. Looking back, I think taking the time to plan and strategize would have saved me a lot of time and resources in the long run. That being said, I also recognize the value of taking action and learning through mistakes and failures. It was good that I just jumped right in and started my business because it allowed me to gain valuable experience and knowledge that I wouldn’t have gained otherwise.
Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers
After graduating from high school, I knew that film was my passion and decided to take a gap year. Despite the limited film industry in Edmonton, AB, I was determined to make the most of every opportunity that came my way. Night after night, I sent out emails to volunteer on set in the local film community. Eventually, I took a chance and flew to Vancouver. On set, I immersed myself in every department, from producing, assistant directing, props, locations, and unit stills. My goal was to learn every aspect of filmmaking, and I loved every job I had.
The love of filmmaking led me to create By Chloe Cruz, where I design unique items such as keychains, enamel pins, stickers, and stationery that showcase various roles on a film set and other film/animation-related themes. Just like movies, the packaging tells a story and is often inspired by my own experiences. For instance, the clapperboard keychain packaging is about my bold decision to pursue a career in the film industry. I quit my first part-time job and immediately started working on film sets in Vancouver, and it was an unforgettable experience when I was asked to work on my first union show the day I arrived.
Apart from designing film-related products, I also create tools that help animators, filmmakers, and game designers with their projects. I designed the first storyboard sticky notes, which help with the creative process to easily rearrange scenes and carry on the go. I came up with the idea in the middle of the night and was ecstatic to see it become a successful tool in the creative industry.
This year marks the 3rd anniversary of By Chloe Cruz’s launch. I have sold my products internationally, participated in trade shows and craft markets, and even placed my merchandise in Makers in Vancouver and JR Lighting in Las Vegas. My products have been utilized as wrap party gifts and costumes for movies and TV shows, and I have plans to expand my offerings beyond film-related products.
In my life, I find fulfillment in variety; that is why I engage in different activities that bring me joy. Currently, I work as a movie extra because I love being on set and meeting new people. My love of photography has landed me a job in social media marketing for a local wedding flower studio. While there, I also work as a florist assistant. It gives me a relaxing break just being surrounded by delicate flowers, beautiful bouquets, and garlands. Engaging in all these activities helps keep me creative and not tired of doing one thing.
Running By Chloe Cruz has been an incredibly fulfilling journey, and I am grateful for all the support I have received along the way.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
The book “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” by Stephen Covey has been a game-changer for me in terms of personal and professional growth. Before stumbling upon this book in 2019, reading was not a hobby that I enjoyed. However, Covey’s teachings on time management and self-improvement have left a lasting impact on me.
Through the powerful habits of being proactive, prioritizing tasks, and continuous self-improvement, I have been able to develop a more purposeful and efficient approach to life. The concept of being proactive has been particularly transformative, as it has taught me to take responsibility for my actions and intentionally pursue my goals. With the help of planners and the Eisenhower Matrix, I have been able to streamline my workload and achieve more than I ever imagined.
Overall, the tools and strategies that Covey offers in his book have been invaluable in my journey toward success, and I will always be grateful for the positive impact it has had on my life. This experience has also taught me the importance of making time for the things that matter, as I was able to start By Chloe Cruz despite my busy schedule working on film sets.
Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?
Pivoting in my business career was one of the biggest decisions I ever made, but it wasn’t something I had planned on. I didn’t decide to change my career; I simply became more curious about business, and it grew from there. I had been working as a film crew on various sets, but I wanted to explore other opportunities to generate income after seeing my family struggle financially. The pandemic only made me more aware of the need to have multiple streams of income.
Working as a Production Assistant meant that my schedule was demanding, and I had very little time for myself. My regular hours on set are typically 12-18 hours a day. I still love film, but I began to feel that this lifestyle wasn’t fulfilling my creative potential and wasn’t bringing me the happiness I desired.
As I started to explore other options, I found myself drawn to the challenge of entrepreneurship. Starting with a small project – the “crafty” keychain – I began to learn more about business and develop new skills. I taught myself how to make a website, market my products, how shipping works and find manufacturers. I delved deeper into the world of entrepreneurship, I realized that I was passionate about it and enjoyed the sense of control it gave me over my work and my creativity. Although I didn’t plan to change my career, my interest in business grew more consistent, and I found myself dedicating more time to it.
Being an entrepreneur has been a fulfilling experience that has allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. I’m excited to see where this pivot takes me next, and I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://bychloecruz.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bychloecruz/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bychloecruz/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-cruz-b30208230/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/ByChloeCruz
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@
bychloecruz/featured - Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/
bychloecruz/ - Other: Etsy: https://www.etsy.com/ca/shop/ByChloeCruz Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@bychloecruz Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.ca/bychloecruz/