I love meeting people that share the same passion for blogging that I have. I met Theo at my recent Blogger Union speaking engagement. I remember our initial introduction – she was so well put together wearing the coolest denim suit. I loved it!
Theo is a mom, a writer, and a personal stylist. I hope you are inspired as I am by her motivation and love for what she does!
Meet Theo of Chacha-Olivia
When you were little what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always loved art and clothing. I can’t really say exactly if I knew what the calling was but I knew it had to do with fashion. I’ll never forget one of my first dates with my husband, he was telling me about “Capture the Flag” and how he played outside until all hours with his friends. I asked him what is “capture the flag?” He was shocked that I never played it. He proceeded to ask me what I did play as a child and almost rolled over laughing when I said “I played store!”
How did you come up with the idea for Chacha-Olivia and your business?
I love being a mom but have always found that I needed a creative outlet. It has evolved over the past couple of years. I thought it would be a blog that would possibly grow into a store. However, I’m really enjoying styling women outside of the store and in their closets. It’s probably a good time to tell you “Chacha-Olivia” is my daughter’s nickname as a child. Theodora is my real name but there are already enough stores and designers out there with that name! It continues to evolve as I meet new women. I do also still love to “Play store.” So, we shall see!!!
What is the biggest struggle you’ve encountered as an entrepreneur and how did you solve it?
Time management! I wish I could say I have solved it! It’s always a struggle. I have major ADD. Medication gives me a lot of anxiety so I try desperately, to prioritize and stay on task. There’s always a squirrel or pretty dress to stop and look at!
What do you think are the pros and cons of being a womanpreneur?
One of the pros is that I have chosen exactly what I love to do…style women and help them make them feel better about themselves. It is my JOY. I LOVE this! I get the flexibility of time, which for me can sometimes also be a con-it’s difficult for me to shut down.
Do you have any mentors or coaches that you work with?
Not specifically that I work with right now. However, throughout my many years in retail, I have alongside some very bright savvy and fashionable women. The women I continue to meet through social media gatherings are always an inspiration and I’m always amazed at how willing they are to listen and help! Like you!!! <You are a doll!>
What advice would you give to someone reading this that has the entrepreneurial “itch”?
I would say “Go for it!” I wish I had started sooner! I spent so much time “thinking” sometimes you just need to block your nose and dive! I would also say to try hard to “be your own you!” Stay true to you and don’t compare and contrast yourself with others! We are all unique! There’s room for everyone!
What is the secret to achieving a work-life balance for you?
I think this is always a struggle. I have to remind myself not to take things, or myself, so seriously sometimes. What I admire most about the women working alongside me on social media is their vulnerability. Keeping things real helps me check in with what’s important in life.
How do you find inspiration?
Oh gosh! Everywhere! My husband is my biggest inspo! He is always striving to be better and do better-he’s SO positive! And, probably my biggest Chacha-Olivia fan! #LOML #hubbahubba
What is your favorite book?
Of recent, “Educated” by Laura Westover I literally couldn’t put it down.
What is your favorite quote?
“We rise by lifting others” I also love “Do it anyway” (That is a very short version of a Mother Theresa quote)
What do you do to decompress?
I love walking the beach, spending time with my hubby and kids AND pets! We have lots of them!
Where can you find Theo? Glad you asked!
You can find Ms. Chacha-Olivia on Instagram, on her blog, and Facebook. I can’t wait to work with Theo – I am definitely starting with a closet overhaul. Then I will most definitely be shopping with her.
Don’t forget to check out some of the past womanprenuers!
Art & Home says
It is awesome meeting people who share the same passions as you do. And – I agree – Time Management is one of the biggest struggles, especially with everything else that life throws at us!
Kuntala says
Its really inspiring and encouraging to meet bloggers with similar interest. It helps to learn and grow together.
Dana says
I agree, Kuntala! Blogging isn’t as easy as a lot of people think!
Chad says
She is awesome! Thank you so much for the interview, this is very inspiring indeed.
Jess F. says
Congrats to Chacha-Olivia!! What a wonderful interview too.
Dana says
Thanks – she’s great!
Farah Al Zadjaly says
She is amazing, talented and beautiful in every way. I love reading about amazing woman like her.
Samar says
I have been following Olivia for quite some time. I must say, I love her work.
catherine santiago jose says
She is such an amazing woman and it is good to read about the experiences and the struggles that one person have before achieving their success.
Nicz E says
She seems like a great woman with a great heart. And we loved the same quote of Mother Theresa.
Dana says
Theo is great! I love that she loves to help other women look and feel their best 🙂
Sushmita says
Wow! Even with ADD, she ended up being such a phenomenal entrepreneur. I enjoyed reading this interview. Thanks 🙂
Sundeep says
I really enjoy reading her interview. I really love such interviews and thanks to you for sharing with us
Norma says
Very interesting interview! It’s great to know what inspires other bloggers and how they find balance between work and home.
Olya AMANOVA says
It is so super nice to read articles like that. This story is an inspiration personified. I feel honored to be of the same sex as women like that.
tweenselmom says
I personally love her quotes, “rise by lifting others” and “do it anyway” and I’m totally snatching them for myself.
aisasami says
She is an inspiring woman and I hope I can enjoy being creative like her!
Njkinny says
It is so inspiring reading about women who got success doing what they love…Thanks for sharing this story.