Maria Dueñas Jacobs, the founder of Super Smalls, offers insights into her journey from a fashion career to becoming a successful entrepreneur. With a background deeply rooted in the fashion industry, Maria’s transition to creating a children’s accessories brand reflects her passion for creativity and innovation.
Early Career Insights
Maria’s career journey began as an after-school teacher at an all-girls private school, where she discovered her love for working with children. Despite facing challenges in her early jobs, including roles as an assistant stylist and dresser, Maria remained determined to succeed in the fashion industry.
Valuable Lessons Learned
Throughout her career, Maria learned the importance of listening and continuous learning. She emphasizes the value of gaining insights from individuals at all levels and believes in the power of lifelong learning.
Career Evolution: Fashion to Entrepreneurship
Maria’s tenure as an accessories editor at Glamour and ELLE provided her with valuable experience and mentorship. Her transition to entrepreneurship was inspired by her desire for a new challenge and a serendipitous encounter with Katrina Lake, the founder of Stitch Fix.
Launching Super Smalls
The idea for Super Smalls emerged from Maria’s observation of her daughter’s fascination with her jewelry. Recognizing a gap in the market for children’s accessories, Maria embarked on a journey to create a brand that offers high-quality, playful accessories for kids.
Embracing Challenges
Running a business while balancing motherhood is no easy feat for Maria. She acknowledges the struggles of finding balance but remains committed to being present for her children and fully engaged in her work.
The Importance of Persistence
Maria’s upbringing instilled in her a strong work ethic and a relentless pursuit of her goals. She views obstacles as opportunities for growth and remains determined to persevere, drawing inspiration from Cleo Wade’s book, “What the Road Said.”
Leveraging Experience
Maria’s background in fashion and her keen eye for design have been instrumental in shaping the vision for Super Smalls. Her ability to navigate challenges and leverage her network has contributed to the brand’s success.
In summary, Maria Dueñas Jacobs’ journey from fashion to entrepreneurship exemplifies resilience, creativity, and a commitment to continuous growth. As she continues to lead Super Smalls, Maria remains driven by her passion for innovation and her dedication to creating memorable experiences for children.