Entrepreneur, fashionista, dedicated mother and wife, philanthropist and star of BRAVO’s The Real Housewives of New York City , Ramona Singer, is a gleaming example of what women-in-business can accomplish.
Today, Ramona is a power-house business woman whose portfolio includes Tru Renewal skin care, True Faith Jewelry , Ramona Singer Collections on Amazon and most notably, Ramona Singer Jewelry for HSN .
With all of Ramona’s business accomplishments, what her fans love most is her ability to balance and prioritize family; Ramona inspires each of us to pursue our dreams and know we CAN HAVE IT ALL!
SG: Ramona, you are a great inspiration for women in business! Where did you find the strength and inspiration to leave Macy’s as a young professional and create RMS Fashions, Inc?
RS: I left Macys to go into the wholesale business because I saw many more opportunities for growth on the other side of the market. With regard to starting my own business at the time my boyfriend was in the wholesale industry and he was working less hours and making more money, it was a no brainer for me. When I wanted to start my own company I had a financial partner and I was speaking with my father about what I was about to embark on. My father told me I did not need a partner and he lent me $70,000 from his retirement fund which I paid back with interest 6 weeks time. I always wanted to have my own business because you work for yourself and can have a great balance between work and family.
SG: What is the piece of advice you would give to young women starting out in business or to daughter Avery about being a woman in business?
RS:
- Always love what you do – do not embark on a business if you are not passionate about it and you do not love it.
- It is important to look 2 or 3 steps ahead this way you are planting the seeds for success.
- Use being a woman to your advantage
SG: With TRU Renewal, Ramona Singer Jewelry for HSN, True Faith Jewelry, philanthropic commitments and family, how do you prioritize it all and give your all to each?
RS: It is extremely difficult and if I took the time to actually stop and think about everything I have going on I would possibly have a break down. In all seriousness the thing that keeps me going is knowing that my priority is my family and no matter what they come first.
SG: What was your motivation to join Bravo’s Real Housewives of New York City?
RS: I saw being part of RHONYC as an opportunity to promote my multiple business ventures. At the time my husband, Mario and I were taking our True Faith business online and building an e-store and thought the show would be great exposure. It is because of the show that I was then able to have my line of jewelry for HSN as well as my Tru-Renewal skincare. The show helped get my creative juices going.
SG: Last season we enjoyed watching you renew yourself in business, family and self. Do you feel renewed, or is it a continual process? What can woman learn from your journey?
RS: I think life is a continual process of renewing oneself. Whether it is your personal relationships with family and friends or even in business. I love knowing that I can serve as an inspiration for woman to constantly re-new themselves and know that the sky is the limit.
SG: How do you fly above negativity, in the press or your personal life?
RS: With the press you have to learn to take everything you see and read with a grain of salt. Unfortunately with press often times they highlight the negative and 9 out of 10 times you can not believe what you read. That being said I have inner self confidence that is rock hard. I know who I am and I surround myself with family and friends who bring me up and believe in me.
SG: Are the Housewives tougher than the Board Room?
RS: There are moments when I have my conflicts on the show and at times being with these women can be tougher than any deal I have ever negotiated.
SG: From your multiple product lines, what are the must-have holiday gifts?
RS: True Faith – Diamonds by the Inch – it goes with everything and it is appropriate for women for all ages from 16-88. It can be worn alone or with another pendant.
Ramona Singer for HSN – Sterling Silver Estate Band – it is the perfect mix between art deco and classiness and you do not need to be married to wear this and it is priced so well for real diamonds at $199.
Tru-Renewal – Ultra Repair Cream with algae and all natural ingredients you will see visible results in weeks.
SG: You are passionate about charity and philanthropy, where did that passion come from and how do you instill that passion in Avery?
RS: I feel like I live a fortunate and privileged life and it is so important to help those who are less fortunate. My daughter, Avery follows by example and she is passionate about helping children-focused charities like Operation Smile . In addition for her upcoming birthday in lieu of gifts she is asking her friends to donate to Toys for Tots .
Follow Ramona’s lead – remember to take time to renew you!
Visit www.Ramona Singer.com for even more!
-Stephanie Goetsch, October 2010
