At a glance: Anne is the Creative Director and owner of Anne B. Accessories. She has 15 years experience in the fashion industry and has worked as general store manager for big brands such as Michael Kors and Victoria’s Secret. Anne B. Accessories can be found in boutique stores in Canada, U.S. and the U.K.
Making my Dream a Reality
FCM interview with Anne Corpuz-Bacalso
1. Tell us a bit about you? Where you are from, your family and your life here in Canada?
I am the Creative Director and owner of Anne B. Accessories, creating high quality, luxury handmade fashion custom jewelry, scarf rings and home creations. I have immersed myself in the fashion industry for over 15 years. I’m currently based in Calgary, Alberta, but was born and raised in Cebu, Philippines. I moved to Canada roughly about eight years ago. I am a mother of five amazing children (two daughters ages 25 and 20, and three sons ages 16, 5 and 3). My husband, Roy, works in the Oil and Gas industry and has been my partner and backbone through this journey. All in all, I’m a proud mompreneur and wife!
2. Tell us two or three interesting things about you that have shaped your views in life or your career.
My core values that have shaped my views on life and career are:
- Self-love. I push through the tough times and celebrate in the good. I aim always to be my number one supporter. I believe in speaking kindly and bravely to yourself.
- Ambition and passion. I always have believed in myself and my ability to succeed in whatever I put my mind to. I never settle for second best. I shoot for the stars and find passion in everything that I do in my life.
- Hard work. I’m always prepared to work long hours and sacrifice the time to build my business. Of course, with the help and support of my incredible family.
3. Tell us how you started your business.
I have been in the fashion industry for 15 years, working in various roles within the industry. I’ve worked as a buyer, retail trade manager, and designer. In addition to as a general store manager for big brands such as Michael Kors and Victoria Secret. I have always had a passion for fashion and design and have always envisioned my own brand. I used to daydream and fiddle around with names, logos and product types that would suit my personal brand.
Working with big name brands gave me a glimpse of what the market was like in Canada. And after two years of working in Canada, I decided to make my dreams a reality and start my own business. After getting the ball rolling, I also wanted to help create jobs both in the Philippines and Canada and so because of this, I focused on making this come true. All of this wouldn’t have happened without the support of my husband, who has always pushed me to follow my dreams. Anne B. Accessories has been in operation for seven years now!
4. Whats next for Anne B?
Currently, Anne B. Accessories is carried by a few stores and boutiques in Canada, USA, and the UK. My goal is to further expand into the US and European market, and to soon be attending more shows in these countries. I also want to see my collection being carried in department stores and well-known boutiques worldwide. That would be so exciting! On top of this, I will be introducing new products for my home creations line this year which we are highly positive will give us an edge in the industry.
5. Who influenced you most and why?
Honestly, my family has been my greatest influence throughout this journey. My husband has been my backbone when it came to taking crazy risks and decisions. He has been my support system. I wouldn’t have been able to do any of this without him! My children inspire me to work harder. I see them growing each day and I want to do this for them. Last, but not least, my parents. When I was young, they fed my thirst for knowledge and taught me the importance of a strong work ethic and that life is tough, but regardless to always dream big and stay focused!
6. In your experience, what does it takes to succeed in business?
Hard work, patience, perseverance, and consistency. There are always going to be challenges when running your own business. So, it’s vital to stay focused and disciplined and never take your eyes off the prize. Taking risks is essential. Self-belief is so so so important and doesn’t cost anything – just the right “yes, I can do it!” mindset and attitude. Ultimately, real success in business only matters if it also equates to your reality of success in your personal life.
7. What are the challenges you faced as a businesswoman?
As a businesswoman, mother and wife – work-life balance can be such a challenge. There are so many responsibilities that come with being an entrepreneur, and even more with your family. With five children (and my husband!) with such unique personalities, each one speaks a different love language and need to be cared and loved for differently than one another. Balancing in providing love and support for my family, while trying to achieve my goals as an entrepreneur can get tricky! It’s definitely not always rainbows and butterflies. Overall, stress with business routine and competition definitely is also a challenge.
8. What is your advice for women who are looking to build their own business?
Never stop learning about your business. Whether it’s on sale taxes in the areas you plan to sell in, developing a new website or creating a marketing plan – always increase your knowledge in every crack and corner of your business. And don’t be afraid to ask for help! You aren’t going to master everything right away. This is a work in progress. I know this sounds so simple, but it’s true. People will always be happy to offer advice. Forge genuine connections with people, inside and outside your industry. So much of business is referral-based – one relationship can make or break your year. Cast a wide net and be authentic to everyone you meet.
Always remember:
- Dream big and the results will be just as big.
- Don’t let anything or anyone hinder you from pursuing your dreams.
- Do what you love, and the rest will come.
- Stick to your vision – don’t let other people tell you that your ideas are bad!
- Trust yourself.
Photo Credit: Armand Flores of Profolio Photography
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