Jennifer CooperIf you've ever considered turning your passion into your profession, then you'd probably be interested to meet Charissa Davidovici, founder of Sugar Factory in Las Vegas, who took a simple idea and created a growing empire for herself.
We scored some one-on-one time with the savvy businesswoman to learn more about her sweet story.
Here's what she shared:
How did you get started in your career?
I have always had a passion for candy and baking. I wanted to open a confectionary store, but wanted it to be more than just a candy store. One of my biggest goals was to have an item that people could take home and always remember Sugar Factory, and realized a lollipop would be perfect! From there, the famous Couture Pop was born, as was the Sugar Factory brand.
Three years later, Sugar Factory has expanded to now seven locations. Each location either has a retail store, cafe, chocolate lounge, full restaurant or party room. The brand is in the works to open four new locations before the end of 2013, including: Town Square Las Vegas, Hollywood next to Grauman's Chinese Theatre, Brooklyn's Barclay's Stadium and Washington D.C.'s Union Station. 10 more locations will be open by the end of 2014.
What is a typical day like for you?
I wake up and have a large cup of coffee, work out and then take our girls to school. Then I am off to the office and visit the five locations in Las Vegas throughout the day. We are currently in the works of signing a new celebrity to her own Couture Pop, so that has kept me busy!
Describe your work environment.
Candy and lots of it! Our office is full of all the products Sugar Factory currently carries and many of the new products that are in the works.
Tell us about your office décor or creative inspiration.
The walls are covered in photos of all the current locations and floor plans of the new and upcoming locations. I like to visualize the locations, so I need to see where everything will be placed. Also, I always a large jar of candy on my desk!
Describe your office style. What do you typically wear to work?
I always have to wear heels! I can't leave the house without a pair.
What are your favorite brands of accessories?
My husband just bought me a beautiful rose gold bracelet from Tiffany and Co. for my birthday. I love it so much, I can't take it off!
My favorite thing in my office/on my desk is:
My family photos are my favorite thing on my desk. I also love the fact that I am able to work with my family every day.
The best part of my job is…seeing the joy on everyone's face who visits Sugar Factory!
What is your guilty pleasure?
My husband and I have a secret vacation spot we call, 'The Cottage.' It sits right on the beach—it's heavenly!
What is the best piece of advice you've ever received?
My mom had a set of house rules, but they apply to everyday life: Keep your promises, share, think of others before yourself, when saying I love you, mean it, listen to your mom, never give up, say please and thank you, always tell the truth, laugh at yourself, hug often, use kind words and love each other.
What are your travel must-haves?
A flat iron of course!
What are your beauty must-haves?
Mascara and lip gloss—that's all you need!
What is your go-to lunch? Favorite snack? Morning beverage?
My favorite snack is apples and peanut butter and my favorite beverage is ginger ale. Of course, Sugar Factory is my favorite place to go for lunch!
If I wasn't doing this job, I would be…doing anything to help animals!
Can you share some advice for aspiring career girls?
Don't be intimidated by the fact you are a woman, get your feet wet and dive in!