In only a few short years, Alex and Ani’s owner and designer Carolyn Rafaelian has become one of the most respected female entrepreneurs in business today. Under her guidance, Alex and Ani is changing the game by infusing enlightenment, inspiration, and positive energy into everything it does.
After attending Alex and Ani’s presentation at Bryant last week, we at Her Campus Bryant have become truly inspired by Carolyn’s energy and spirit. We asked Carolyn about her path to success, what inspires her and much more.
As a woman who founded her own business, what advice do you have for inspired female entrepreneurs?
I would tell inspired entrepreneurs to never take no for an answer. Figure out what you are trying to do and find a way to accomplish this in an unexplored way and soon you will climb to the top for being unique and different. Have innovative thoughts and the ability to bring these ideas to fruition.
What are three qualities you believe a woman needs to be successful in the workplace?
Three qualities necessary for success are perseverance, passion, and a plan.
Where do you find your inspiration?
I spend a great deal of time in Jamestown, RI, so I love to go to the RI beaches and “special spots” where I become inspired. Mother nature is the most creative force. We are blessed to experience everyday anywhere- whether you’re sitting on a NY rooftop or at the water’s edge.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Each day I am rewarded knowing Alex and Ani has positively changed someone’s life with the time and effort each of us put into our jobs! The drive to succeed is also an important factor and it helps to be in love with what you do, you can’t beat the message of positive energy.
What have you learned from your experiences with Alex and Ani?
It takes time, hard work and a lot of dedication to work towards a goal and it helps to work with individuals that want that same goal. Being motivated by each other at Alex and Ani has been an important factor that has shaped me into the professional and career driven individual I am today! The knowledge and experience I have gained from Alex and Ani encourages individual creativity and greatness, which continues to everyday at work!
What do you hope Alex and Ani wearers will gain from your signature designs?
Alex and Ani products are created for wearers to feel empowered, enlightened and beautiful. Each collection is based on spiritual, insightful or powerful symbols that provide distinct energies that the consumer can feel connected to. Words are powerful, symbols are powerful and the wearer can experience this heightened sense of inspiration through our pieces.
Besides Alex and Ani, what are your passions in life?
Definitely enjoying life’s simple pleasures, taking in inspiration and of course, inspiring creativity for others.
What is one piece of advice you have always carried with you?
My thoughts create my reality so I am always cautious about how I perceive things.
Who has had the greatest influence on your current success? / Who is your role model in life?
My parents are my biggest role models. My father has had such a great influence on my success. He started this all from nothing and accomplished so much. My mother is his support system, the wind in his sails.
Is there a particular quote or mantra that you live by?
Do more of what makes you happy. That is something that, with both life and work, can most certainly be accomplished! Every day should be embraced with positive energy and a will to do something great, why not be happy doing so? Setting goals with a positive outlook and influence will help you achieve them easily.
For more about Alex and Ani, visit www.AlexandAni.com.