We had the good fortune of connecting with Ana Valdivia and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ana, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Similar to many entrepreneurs, the thought process behind starting my own business was the promise of the “American dream”. I realize that may look and feel different for each one of us, but at the heart of that dream I believe what we are all really seeking is freedom – freedom to choose where we live, who we love, how we pray, and how we work. In my case, it was the freedom to choose how and where I work without having to compromise my values or integrity. After many years of working in corporate finance, I finally embraced the fact that I am a multidimensional being with a number of different talents, skills, and interests and so decided to take a chance to “reinvent” myself through the work that I do, how and where I do it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Wow! That’s a packed question! I think I’m not very different from most people, to be honest. To me that means that I can relate to others quite easily, in most situations. I’m a huge dreamer and very empathetic which can be great as it does in fact allow me to connect with others, but at the same time it can take a toll emotionally. It’s something that I am learning to “handle” with “old age.” The Blushing Tulip gets me super excited and makes me feel quite proud! Professionally, I started my career in corporate Accounting and Internal Audit within the financial services industry. Over the years, I continued working as an accountant, earned my CPA, and began working in the healthcare industry, other non-profits, and even taught at the community college level. At times, my career has been challenging, definitely not easy, but it has also been rewarding. I met so many amazing individuals that over the years transformed from being co-workers to becoming friends. When you have good peers and mentors around you, it helps overcome those challenges that will surely arise. Some of the best lessons that I have personally learned is around people; particularly, around respect and trust. Those are the bedrock for any relationship; whether professional or otherwise. When I think about what I want the world to know about me and my brand, it’s really quite simple: I want to make the world a little brighter, both for myself and for everyone around me. The Blushing Tulip is a reflection of that desire. Through my designs, my goal is to bring color and warmth, and yes even a little humor, into your life—whether it’s through the clothes you wear or how you decorate your home with our designs. I believe that our designs do more than just look beautiful; they also bring positivity, inspiration, and gratitude into our everyday lives. Each design is crafted with love and care, aiming to uplift your spirit and brighten your day. We’re thrilled about the journey ahead and can’t wait to continue sharing the joy and beauty of The Blushing Tulip with you all!

Why did you pursue an artistic or creative career? Ever since I was a kid, I remember loving to draw, color, sketch, and loving fashion, interior design, and architecture! I have always found inspiration all around me and in nature – this is as true today as it was back when I was a child. As far as fashion, I love everything from haute couture to every day casual wear which is one of the things that I’ve decided to focus on with The Blushing Tulip. One of my cherished childhood memories is about these paper Barbie dolls that my Dad would buy for me. For over 30 years, my Dad worked for Pioneer French Baking Co. in Venice . Yes, all my childhood I was blessed to wake up to freshly baked French bread – yum! Anyway, Tuesdays were payday for Dad. Tuesdays were also the day that my Dad treated me to a burger and a toy after he picked me up from school. Amongst the toys that I loved the most were these paper Barbie dolls that came with multiple outfits. As I contemplated leaving corporate, I wasn’t sure how I could pivot from being an accountant to making a childhood hobby or game into a career, but things have started coming together. My accounting education and experience will always serve me. It is something I still very much enjoy and see myself doing going forward. I believe that we need to fight this idea that we should only focus on one thing for the rest of our lives. Sometimes, others like to “pigeon-hole” us into personas; don’t allow it. There is no reason we can’t be successful at various things. As long as you have a passion for something, go for it! Try it. We are all multi-dimensional beings and as such we should embrace our various skills and/or interests and not be afraid to explore different possibilities no matter how old we are.

What’s one thing about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of? All the behind-the-scenes work that is involved in presenting a new design. Yeesh!

Risk taking: how do you think about risk? I believe calculated risks are a necessity in life! If we don’t take a chance, we will always wonder … or worse, live in regret of what could have been. What role has taking risks played in your life/career? I would say calculated risks have played a significant role in my life. Every move or decision we make in life requires that we choose between the best alternatives available based on what we know at the time. For me, most recently, this translated to taking a risk on whether to leave my corporate job to pursue my dream of growing my own business.

Other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success? I would say that in addition to working for myself, the other most important decision that I have made and which has contributed to my success is having pursued a higher education. I am a proud double-Lion having graduated from Loyola Marymount University. Go Lions! I am also a Certified Public Accountant in the state of California. I believe both my education and certification represent not only great personal and professional achievements, but both also serve as testimony of my work-ethic and integrity both of which I inherited from my parents.

What is the most important factor behind your success? I believe there are a number of factors behind my success, but if I had to pick one, I would have to say that it is probably my perseverance. I’m not someone to shy away from difficult circumstances or failure. I believe that there is a lot of truth to the saying “if one door closes, three more will open.” You just have to keep knocking on those other doors, until your door opens. The success of your brand? The people that support it, without a doubt! I believe there is a consensus that retail is super competitive. I personally think there is space for us all! Embracing this belief, one approaches life from a vantage point of abundance which I surely believe in. Yes, it is true that customers have so many choices. But if you can speak directly to the heart of a person, then that person will become a customer. It’s not enough to put forth a good product. You have to believe that what you offer truly brings value to the consumer. Then, you must assure the consumer of the same. In my case, I truly believe flowers heal. The healing properties of flowers extend far beyond the realm of fresh flowers, contrary to what one might assume at first glance. Sure, fresh florals are aesthetically pleasing and divine, but I firmly believe that florals have the power to uplift us, regardless of the medium! The healing properties of flowers can be traced back in history, spanning various cultures through their cuisine and remedies. This again serves as evidence of their therapeutic nature. Flowers are beautiful, magical, and undeniably healing!

What’s the most difficult decision you’ve ever had to make? This is a hard question! I would say that one of the most difficult decisions I’ve ever had to make was whether I should leave my corporate job to venture out on my own and pursue growing my business full-time. Even though it was tough and scary, I am happy I made that choice.

Work life balance: how has your balance changed over time? Work life balance is constantly in flow. I believe it’s one of those constants in life. The best thing we can do is surround ourselves with people that support us on the days we need help, encouragement, or a hug. Hopefully, we can pause and offer the same to them when they need a hand, a kind word, or loving gesture. How do you think about the balance? Again, I think balance is constantly in flow. One thing that I do believe we have to strive for is prioritizing our health – this includes both physical and mental. Again, this is personal to each one of us, but if you know you are the type of person that cannot function without at least six hours of sleep, then prioritize sleep. I love morning walks, so I try to prioritize those. Most days, I am successful with that!

Do you have a favorite quote or affirmation? Yes, I do – it is a biblical verse. It is the following: In all ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your path. (Proverbs 3:5-6) What does it mean to you / what do you like about it? This verse is powerful! Whether you are religious or not – I am – it acknowledges that there is “something” much bigger than us guiding us in our journey here on this planet. When we are lost, confused, or scared, turning up and seeking this guidance can bring us the clarity and comfort needed. Likewise, when we are overwhelmed with joy, we can also turn up and offer our gratitude for the whispers that led to such happiness.

What do you want your legacy to be? The legacy that I would like to leave is that I was a kind, good person to those around me. Nothing too lofty, but something that I personally believe the world needs more of. What do you want people to remember about you? I want people to remember that I was genuine and kind; that I was willing to help when help was needed; that I was willing to take a chance on people; to believe in them and to help them believe in themselves; to help people dream about the promise of a better tomorrow so long as we get up and try each and every day as long as we are gifted another breath on this earth.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Well, I like to cook so would probably enjoy most of our meals at home! But I would also probably take them to the same places I usually frequent. For breakfast, for example, we would probably go to Centinela Cafe, a small bakery/cafe, called Horchata Mexican Food & Bakery, in Santa Monica – they serve the best scones and french baguettes ever, S & W Diner in downtown Culver City. For lunch or dinner, some of my favorite places include Pacos Tacos on Centinela Avenue, Sakura Japanese Restaurant (also on Centinela), Pepe’s Tacos (also on Centinela), C&O Cucina, and Johnnie’s Pastramis (in Culver City) – all local restaurants as you can see!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely! Firstly, my parents and two brothers – they are the inspiration and the drive behind all my efforts! I am so incredibly blessed that I was given the parents I got in this lifetime. My parents have always been a source of emotional support and encouraged all of my dreams. I am just so grateful for that! Next, I would have to say some of my teachers over my educational career, beginning with Ms. Rosalie Maggio my 5th grade teacher at Beethoven Elementary School. I loved her so much – thank you, Ms. Maggio! My LMU professors – they were all so wonderful, but in particular Dr. Bob Clark and Dr. David Choi! In my professional career, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention some of the people that took a chance on me – Lee Clements, Arthur Valbuena, Celeste Burton, Michelle Flewellyn-Wiggins, Gerald (Jerry) Ludwig, Violeta Weigand, Armando Nevarez, and Raymond Thu. Last, but certainly not least my closest friends – Olga, Selena, Yvonne, Amy, and Erica. Thank you ladies for being some of my biggest cheerleaders!

Website: https://www.theblushingtulip.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_blushing_tulip/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theblushingtulip/

Other: contact@theblushingtulip.com

Image Credits
Picture of Pioneer French Baking Co. located at 512 Rose Avenue, Venice CA: https://3jmann.com/2018/07/20/west-coast-spring-2018-oakland-part-two/pioneer-bakery/

Barbie Paper Doll: https://www.dollpeddlar.com/product/barbie-day-to-night-barbie-paper-doll-vintage/

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutLA is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.