Welcome to the Founder Spotlight series where we get to know a tech founder who is working to create the next billion dollar company. Show your support by sharing her story and increasing the visibility of black women in tech!
Name: Nicole Campbell
@cepi_style medium.com
@nicoleettrickacampbell
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-campbell-a2555b3/
Company: Cepi Style
A transformational closet editing and shopping service that gives women the opportunity to refine their style and shop in-home and virtually.
What made you want to become an entrepreneur in tech?
I was at a moment in my personal life and career where I knew that I wanted to challenge myself to fully realize and create something that could shift an entire industry and simultaneously touch lives. So, I dared myself, took a detour from my then-career and put one foot in front of the other.
Where did you get the idea for your business?
All the women around me (especially in my professional world) who were constantly trying to figure this whole retail world out and make it work for them. It was an ever present theme.
I think Cepi Style is so much better because of how much I didn’t know. The process of figuring things out through trial, error, scraped knees and tears — I think it’s necessary.
What is the most rewarding part of being an entrepreneur?
Witnessing the light that gets turned on for clients and members. I actually get Cepi Style love letters from senior executives and stay at-home moms alike.
What are you an expert in?
Growing, listening, learning, and laughing… Repeat…
What advice would you give yourself before you started this company?
This is a tough question. I think Cepi Style is so much better because of how much I didn’t know. The process of figuring things out through trial, error, scraped knees and tears — I think it’s necessary. I think now I try to promise myself to be a bit more graceful and enjoy the moment even if it isn’t “everything”. By the time, “everything” comes I’ll already be good. I’m trying my best at this one!
When will you feel like your company is successful?
When it becomes a household name.
Tell us something cool you recently learned, big or small.
About Eartha Kitt! She was more than “Cat Woman.” I love women who stand up for what they believe in and others around them. It comes at a cost, but always worth it in the end.
What’s the biggest thing we can help you with so you can become a billion dollar founder?
Spread the world, like Cepi Style on social media, sign up for a closet edit (or gift one), and mention us to your affinity groups at your respective firms.
Thanks, Nicole!
