Who are Elham & Roksareh Jeddi &, could you please introduce yourselves?
My name is Elham and I am a potter. I started pottery about 5 years ago and together with my sister Rokhsareh who is a silver artist for 15 years, we co-own Collage Cafe Gallery.
What is your business and when did you start?
We have started an e-commerce business in 2020 . We collect handmade and one of a kind products of female artists from different countries and bring them together under Collage Cafe Gallery. We curate the items consciously, mostly focusing on the artists who make their living on their natural and eco friendly products.
What inspired you to start your business?
Our story began when we started our journey in the world of art. We crossed paths with so many talented women from all around the world who were telling powerful stories of resilience, independence, and love through their craftsmanship.
What were the challenges in the initial stages of your business and how did you overcome them?
We were looking for a store just before the pandemic started, however the lockdown changed our plans and we launched online. Creating a website and online marketing is an ongoing challenge. Constant learning is what helps us to overcome this challenge.
What motivates you about your business?
Empowering women and giving them the platform to showcase their products in the market much bigger than their country and help them to overcome some of difficulties in their life motivates us.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
We believe in determination and consistency are keys to the success of an entrepreneur. Despite the challenges, don’t give up!
Interesting fact most of the people do not know about you?
I (Elham) used to be a bookkeeper but I left my job to start a business.
The best business advice we ever received was…
The more you learn the more you earn, grab inspiration wherever you can find it.
Our definition of success is…
to make meaningful impact in the life of the artists whose products we promote.
If we could go back in time when we started our business, we would tell ourselves to…
Appreciate yourself; as a starter you are doing your best!
Three books we recommend for entrepreneurs are…
Atomic Habits by James Clear
A Woman Makes A Plan by Maye Musk
Eat That Frog by Brian Tracy
Our personal tagline is…
Follow your gut and be yourself!
