I am on cloud 9! One of my favorite and most respected mentors, someone I really look up to, recently interviewed me regarding my success in this entrepreneurial world.

Yes! Marie Forleo invited me to share with her my “success story” since taking B-school and how I’ve been able to create a life I love. It was a surreal moment, to say the least.

As a mentor to other fellow entrepreneurs myself, it’s so rewarding when someone can make a positive impact on the lives of others, even in the smallest of ways. I want to share with you a “success story” from one of our students here at Pink Olive School, Ana Manzano from Ana Apple. Here’s her wonderful adventure:

Before working with Grace earlier this year, Ana Apple had been experiencing significant growth, but I was feeling a bit scattered and overwhelmed. The demand for my products was increasing, and I was having a difficult time keeping up since I was still a one-woman operation. I also had a ton of ideas on where my line could go next, but was uncertain on what the best strategy would be. I knew that having a mentor as experienced and passionate as Grace would be the way to get more clarity on what my unique strengths are, where I should focus my time and money, and receive the firsthand guidance that I really needed.

Throughout our program. Grace pushed me beyond my comfort zone, and I am so grateful for it! From our very first session, she dug in with an extensive critique of my current product line, branding and pricing structure, offering constructive tips on what could be improved to move my brand up to the next level. She encouraged me to raise my prices to position myself in a more appropriate market for my work. During our entire term, Grace also helped develop my newest project, Little Eco-Hero Sets, which is launching with a Kickstarter campaign this week, and we set goals for the holiday season.

Our VIP-day session was absolutely wonderful. Grace gave me worksheets to complete that helped with refining my niche and brainstorming out of the box ways to get in front of my ideal audience. I loved having complete access to ask questions and present my ideas to her directly. She even sent me home with an extensive list of retail stores, media contacts, blog topic ideas, and sales representatives. At the end of the day, I felt as if a huge weight had been lifted and I couldn’t wait to get back to my studio to implement all of the plans we laid out.

Not only did I receive help with the nitty-gritty of the retail industry, we talked a lot about issues with confidence that were keeping me from taking big leaps with my business. I have no shortage of inspiration, and in fact have a big vision of one day establishing a creative-based mentoring program and studio space for children. Grace helped me see that with Ana Apple, I am creating a platform in order to build resources + experience so that I can make my big dream a reality. She reminded me that taking risks are what get me closer to my goals.

I wholeheartedly recommend Retail Recipes if you are looking to develop your brand and take the next big leap with faith under the guidance of an experienced and caring mentor. Just as Grace helped me realize, you have been given a unique gift that you are meant to share with the world. Invest in yourself and your talents!”

Can you relate with Ana’s story? Are you ready to make your dream a reality and make it happen in 2016?

If so, then you’ll be delighted to know that in Spring 2016, we will be opening up a private group mentorship program (just for product-based entrepreneurs) in collaboration with B-School. All you need to do is sign up on the waiting list and soon we’ll be sending out more information about the program, along with special bonuses that we will offer when you sign up with me.

Let me just say thank you for everything you do and sharing your gifts with the world. I look forward to being part of your success story.

Here’s to your success!

xoxo,

Grace Kang
Founder, Pink Olive School