Exclusive interview with a business woman and style expert Aprile Serry
We are excited to present an exclusive interview with Aprile Serry, businesswoman and style expert based in Miami, Florida. As the Founder and CEO of Aprile Ventures Unlimited LLC, Aprile is dedicated to partnering with clients to envision and implement creative solutions to meet their evolving business needs.
Prior to launching her businesses, to include The Sleek Wardrobe - a personal styling venture and lifestyle blog, Nuu Bijoux - a curated collection of rare vintage gems, and Endulzarr - an all natural body scrub, Aprile had an extensive career in the financial services industry.
S!: We are so excited to have you in Splash! You are a multi-faceted woman with many interests and achievements! To start with something impressive you have successfully launched Aprile Ventures Unlimited LLC, The Sleek Wardrobe styling services, you are a lifestyle blogger and had an extensive career in the banking sphere. Wow! What is the most exciting project you’ve ever worked on?
AS: The most exciting project I have ever worked on is bringing The Sleek Wardrobe to life. I love when people seek me out for guidance on how to enhance their style. Having a platform to provide tips to a broader audience to empower others is intrinsically fulfilling.
S!: What was the most difficult venture you’ve enrolled in? What is currently your favorite project?
AS: Out of all of the efforts I was able to lead during my career, the most difficult venture I enrolled in was to focus on doing my inner work and concentrate on my personal growth and development. For many years I lived my life to please other people and I decided I would no longer continue down that path. As a result, I created space to envision what I wanted the next chapter of my life to be and I began taking action to make that happen.
S!: You acquired a lot of leadership experience in the banking sphere, did it help you in building your own business?
AS: Absolutely. I led highly visible and complex efforts during my career. Many of which involved various internal divisions and external partners. Having these experiences honed my ability to think strategically and adapt to change.
S!: What is the most enjoyable thing about being an entrepreneur for you?
AS: There was a point in my life when I lived my life a certain way because of societal expectations. As a creative entrepreneur, I have created my own path to live a life that is more intrinsically fulfilling to me.
S!: During your career, who was a role model for you?
AS: Carla Harris, Morgan Stanley executive. I continue to be inspired by her endurance as she has tenaciously navigated Wall Street for over 30 years.
S!: What made you go into style and marketing consulting business after being an expert in banking?
AS: I decided to focus on style and marketing consulting as people have reached out to me seeking out my advice on what they should wear for different occasions. Also, I enjoy helping others think outside of the box and I have been fortunate to be recognized for sharing an unbiased point of view.
S!: Who are the top 3 impactful personalities in the human history for you?
AS: I have great admiration for people who are able to make achievements that some would consider impossible, possible. C.J. Walker, a self-made businesswoman who built a thriving cosmetics and hair care company during a challenging time period - both economically and socially. Late architect Zaha Hadid also comes to mind as she created futuristic and prolific designs. Lastly, inventor Nikola Telsa for his thought leadership in the technology space.
S!: What is your time management tip for our readers?
AS: Over the years I have learned how to practice more self care. This includes exercising, reading about a topic of interest, or carving out time to be more creative. As women, we are often faced with an expectation to be everything to everyone. I have found that making time to pour into myself enhances my ability to be more creative in my work. It also allows me to be of better service to my family and community.
S!: What is your inspirational quote of the day?
It's okay to change lanes in life and take a path less traveled.