Photo Credit: Gemma Comas

Yesterday, I posted Amy’s family interview. Today is her business interview and it is a must read. In the pictures below, see her yummy creations that will make you want to have a party ASAP.

ON BUSINESS:

1. How and when did Amy Atlas Events start?

I started by business in 2007. I have always loved to entertain and create my signature dessert buffets. It was a hobby of mine, and it organically grew into a business through word of mouth. Friends and family encouraged me to make a business out of it. After practicing law and having two children, I decided I wanted to tap into my creative side. I started by creating dessert tables for friends and then friends of friends. Because no one had taken the candy buffet to the next level, I recognized that there was a niche that could be filled. I worked hard to perfect that niche and developed a reputation as the go-to-girl for dessert bars.

Photo Credit: Gemma Comas

2. What is your average day like at Amy Atlas Events?

It really does change from day to day.  That is what makes it so exciting.  It usually starts off with a blog post.  Often, we’re running around Manhattan propping for great finds for our clients (whether it be the floral district for florals, fabric district for linens, an antique store for interesting vessels).  We also craft, sample desserts, meet with vendors, meet with clients.  Of course, there is all of the administrative stuff as well like drafting proposals and billing/accounting.  We recently started doing vlogs to show behind-the-scenes at Amy Atlas Events so now we’re learning how to edit videos.  There is never a dull moment here and it is what makes it exciting to work here.

Photo Credit: Dawn Giarrizzo

3. What is your favorite part about your work?

I love seeing a client’s inspiration develop into a story for their event. It is extremely gratifying turning a client’s vision into reality and seeing their response (as well as their guests) to the design at the event.

Photo Credit: Dawn Giarrizzo

4. Three things that are must-haves as a business person?

(1) A person to bounce ideas off of and voice of reason

(2) Tireless ambition

(3) Thick skin

Photo Credit: Karen Mordechai

5. What/who inspires you? Where do you get your creative vision?

I am inspired by everything around me. I always get a little stuck in the beginning when I am coming up with a concept. It can be very frustrating, but every designer goes through it. When I have a creative block, I usually try to take a break from what I am doing. I’ll go for a walk/run or listen to music. I find it is better to get away from what I am thinking of instead of forcing it. Often, I’ll wake up in the middle of the night and everything will “click”.

Photo Credit: Karen Mordechai

6. What is your best piece of business advice to other creative small business owners?

(1)Stay focused and never give up {my mantra!}  There will be a lot of people who will tell you that you can’t.  Listen to people who will tell you that you can.

(2) Do what inspires you and you’re more likely to be successful at what you do.  It is not a guarantee, but it is certainly helpful.  {Words from a former practicing attorney}

(3) Look for a market that no one has tapped into, but make sure there is a need.

(4) Don’t worry about being the first at what you do…just do it right.

(5) Know your brand.  Be somewhat flexible and listen to client needs, but don’t cheapen your brand and change your business model just to get more clients.

Photo Credit: Gemma Comas

7. What is next for Amy Atlas Events?

We have a lot coming up that I can’t reveal yet so stay tuned!

FINALLY:

8. Do you support any charities that we could mention?

Pediatric cancer – this is a cause that just breaks my heart.  We do work with the Ronald McDonald House, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund, and do work for breast and prostate cancer charities.  Cancer has been prevalent in my family so it really hits close to home.

Photo Credit: Gemma Comas

Thank you so much Amy for opening up your life and business to all of us. We look forward to seeing more of your stunning work in the future!

For more information on Amy Atlas, visit:

http://www.amyatlas.com (website)

http://blog.amyatlas.com (Sweet Designs Blog)