Every week we’ll be featuring a smart, savvy female entrepreneur we think is just great. These are women who are out there in the trenches each and every day, making things happen and affecting other people’s lives for the better. So pull up a comfy chair, grab a cup of coffee and meet this week’s SheBrand Superstar. We can all learn a golden nugget or two from each other.
Name: Melissa Atkins Wardy
Occupation: Creator/Owner of Pigtail Pals – Redefine Girly, media literacy advocate
Website: https://www.pigtailpals.com
Twitter: @PigtailPals
1. What are three words that best describe your personal brand?
Independent, creative, and inspired.
2. Tell us why you’re awesome in two sentences or less.
When my daughter was a baby I saw a need for girls to have stronger, more empowering messages during their girlhood. I refused to accept what was out there, and became the change I wanted to see, now offering families an entire shop of unique products for girls, along with a badass media literacy blog that breaks down the ridiculous clothes and toys and messages being marketed to our daughters.
3. What are your three biggest indulgences?
Hmm…I had to stop and think about this because I’ve done nothing but work for 2.5 straight years building the business.
1) Taking care of my body through Zumba, running, or Yoga
2) Buying books
3) Wine and tapas with good friends
4. What is your biggest pet peeve?
People who are afraid to think critically about important issues and choose to remain ignorant. The world has enough ignorance. I believe in spreading light.
5. If you could have dinner with anyone (living or not) who would it be and why?
I’d really like to meet Lisa Ling and Christiane Amanpour. I think I would throw a dinner party, and also invite Oprah, Wangari Maathai, Amy Tan, Eleanor Roosevelt, Amelia Earhart, Harriet Tubman, and Joan of Arc. Can you IMAGINE what that conversation would sound like? I love women who are/were fighters and storytellers.
6. Why is having a powerful personal brand important to you?
My personal brand stands on my integrity, and I have a large audience of parents looking to me for guidance on how to raise empowered girls. I knew from the very beginning that who I was and what I stood for needed to be very clear, and accessible, for other parents to connect with me.
7. What is your #1 marketing tip for fellow female entrepreneurs?
Be authentic in your communications and dealings with people. The passion for what you do will sell your business or product, just be yourself and be approachable. Knowing who you are and what you stand for will set you apart from the rest of the field. Marketing is like telling your story, and you are the best person to author that tale.
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