Danielle Romero Real Life Rosie

I am Danielle Romero, a self-employed artisan-I started New York to Nashville.  I handcraft men’s pocket squares. In my previous life I was an elementary school teacher and graduated with my Masters in Elementary Education at Vanderbilt University here in Nashville, TN.
What inspires you? I am inspired by the Old South and early American history. All of my pocket squares are named for famous + infamous American characters. I love telling stories through fabric and creating a personality around a pocket square.
Do you have a favorite quote? Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. – Psalm 27:13
What are the most pressing issues facing women today? I believe a serious issue facing today’s women is that we falsely think we have to choose between something: brains or beauty; business or family. We don’t have to choose, we can do both. And we can do both well.
What are the biggest keys to your success? I always take the bull by the horns; I dive in and ask questions later. I find that it helps me to get over being a perfectionist and make excuses for why I’m not ready to do something.
What are the biggest keys to the advancement or success of women? I believe women supporting women makes the most impact, which is why I am in love with Rosie Made! When women work together instead of picking each other apart, it can be very powerful.
Where did the inspiration for your business come from? I started by selling vintage western clothing through an online storefront. Often, I would come across an amazing vintage piece that was not in condition to be sold, but the fabric still had an amazing story to tell. I decided to handcraft pocket squares from the piece and let the fabric share its story in a fresh way.
Where is your product sold (if applicable)? My pocket squares are available through my Etsy storefront. If you are in Nashville they are available at select vintage boutiques on the East Side and Music Row areas.
What advice do you have for a woman who is considering starting a business? For every great idea there are dozens of so-so ideas – don’t be afraid to try things out and see what works and what feels right. Remember that if YOU don’t believe in your product, no one else will. Keep working at it until you find something that fits who you are and something that you feel excited about sharing.
What are the biggest hurdles you have faced in starting or growing your business? How did you overcome these? I used to be very shy about things I created—my amazing husband, Daniel, encouraged me every step of the way.  I would not have felt that I could take this risk and start a new business without his support and encouragement along the way.

Website: etsy.com/shop/newyorktonashville

Facebook: New York to Nashville

Twitter: @nytonash

Blog: nytonashivlle.com

Other: email howdy@nytonashville.com