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

Hi Leana, can you tell us about what you are most excited or proud of in terms of the business you’ve built?
I am most proud of the fact that I started my business with such a tight budget only being able to bring in 1 style in 4 colors and with that 1 style and lots of hard leg work I was able to go from selling in 2 local studios in LA to over 100 in my first year in business. People always say work hard and it pays off and they are absolutely right. No business grows without alot of leg work and sacrifice but if you just keep plugging away at it, even with a tight budget you can grow a business.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I have been a serial entrepreneur since I was in my early twenties and have failed so many times at it due to lack of funds or experience but throughout the years my failures have all been stepping stones to this day where I can be confident about my designs and business strategy and grow a thriving business that all started from my garage while being a stay at home mom to my 2 beautiful kids. Arebesk started after I decided to take up Pilates and get my mind and body back in shape. I fell in love with the workout and that woke my love of designing and entrepreneurship and I got the bug to try again after leaving this industry for a while. Arebesk specializes in designer grip socks. What sets us apart from our competitors is our chic, unique designs that are exclusive to our brand, quality and wash bag which is included with each pair. There are lots of basic yoga, grip socks in the market but nobody does what I do to by taking a basic sock and transforming it into a elegant piece of art that is universally appealing to all and looks great with all the activewear on the market. I have had many challenges since I started with a tight budget and lots of set backs as most business owners do but I have the support of so many studio owners and it really drives me to keep going. Arebesk has expanded into active-wear with a new line of Grip Tops that have silicone on the hands and provide traction, padding and a hygienic barrier with equipment. Arebesk is creating innovative never been done before pieces that are much needed for the market and I am really excited to grow this brand with the vision I have.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
If my best friend was visiting I would make sure to take them to Rodeo Drive because of all the magic and fashion and inspiration you get while walking around. I would make sure to take them to Silverlake because there are alot of amazing restaurants there that are not the usual places people frequent in Los Angeles. The fashion district downtown LA is a must. there is some good shopping in the Alley and its great to see the Staples Center for a basketball game. The beach is definitely on the list and a drive up PCH with lunch at paradise cove cafe.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Success not only depends on your own hard work and past mistakes but it also takes a village of supportive business owners to help bring a brand to life. With my business most of my success is directly related to the support of lots of small business owners, mostly hard working women in this industry that have opened their studios to me and my brand and introduced my designs to their clients. They gave me a chance to showcase my work and quality and the response has been great. Also, social media has played a big role with influencers and industry professionals organically posting about Arebesk because they love our quality and unique designs. It always takes a village to help someone rise.

Website: www.arebesk.com
Instagram: @arebeskusa
Facebook: arebeskusa

Image Credits
photographer: Jose Landeros ( shot of socks) photographer: Michael Clifford ( pic of me)