Women of Wonder Interview with V. BELLAN’s Founder and Creative Director, Vanessa Bellan
Women have made an undeniable impact on the world, paving the way for future generations to break barriers and shatter stereotypes. Often in the face of discrimination and adversity, women have trail blazed by building brands and achieving greatness through innovation, leadership and inspiration.
We celebrate Women's History Month by featuring the remarkable female founders whose brands you can find at SHOWFIELDS. Tune in as we interview our Women of Wonder!
What inspired you to start your own business?
VB: V.BELLAN was launched in memory of my daughter who passed away in 2019. V.BELLAN was my saving grace during a time of depression, as I created pieces for myself and my husband in memory of our daughter. I created personalized pieces to document her name and where we both were at that time of our lives. I also created fashion pieces that I envisioned my daughter would want to steal from me when she got older. The business was launched on what would have been her first birthday in October 2020.
What makes V. Bellan so unique?
VB: Everything is truly made with love. Each piece on my site was created during a time when love was the only thing that kept me going.
Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out?
VB: No. I feel like everything happened how it was supposed to. The beauty comes from the journey. The highs and lows are all things I needed to go through to get to where I am today.
What have you enjoyed most about starting your own brand?
VB: I've enjoyed the therapy my business has given me. Being able to create gives me the opportunity to release all emotions. Whether it's a sad emotion, happy emotion or just feeling inspired and needing to release.
What has been the biggest challenge for you as a female-founded company?
VB: Finding access to funding and being respected as a business owner when I'm in male-dominated spaces.
Do you have a mantra that you live by?
VB: Follow your inner compass. All the answers you're looking for are within you. Trust your gut.
What tips do you have for other women who would like to start their own businesses?
VB: Identify your purpose, connect with others, and invest in yourself through financial knowledge, business management, research of your field, and most importantly - your wellness. Self-care is key in order to keep going.
If someone is new to your brand, what is the first product they should try?
VB: Our Double Bar Cuff from our Bars Collection or our customizable 14k Mini Circle Pendant Necklace from our fine collection. Both of those styles are customer favorites and classic VB pieces!
