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

Hi Roya, what is the most important factor behind your success?

That’s an excellent question. Yes, building a brand is crucial for a successful business. However, the process of brand-building is not something that happens overnight. It requires offering value to customers and society, addressing a problem, and answering the “why.” This is precisely what ‘Dateolate’ has successfully accomplished by resolving the concerns of consumers who seek a sweet treat to satisfy their sugar cravings without the high content of butter, cream, and refined sugars commonly found in other confections on the market.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
What I take immense pride in is that ‘Dateolate’ has managed to introduce a new chapter in the chocolate and confectionary industry. As a chocolate brand, Dateolate crafts its chocolates with 90% dates, thereby infusing them with a wealth of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that offer health benefits. This approach has allowed us to create chocolates that are not only delicious but also healthier, more satisfying. Undoubtedly, this journey was far from easy. However, what empowered me to persevere and overcome challenges was seeking advice and consultation from experts in the business. As an entrepreneur, it is crucial to seek guidance from those who possess strategic knowledge.

One of the most significant lessons I’ve learned is that if you pursue something wholeheartedly, the universe supports you and opens doors. However, if a door closes, it’s important not to be disheartened. Having goals requires finding solutions, even when faced with challenges. It’s crucial to strike a balance between dreaming big and being realistic. Recognize the challenges and problems, but never lose hope. I always remind myself that I am not alone in this journey.

For me, transforming this dream into reality took many years. While I won’t take up much of the readers’ time now, I plan to delve into the details in another series.

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.
As an immigrant, Orange County has become my home. I am grateful for the beautiful and diverse culture, as well as the supportive community that exists here. The Ecology Center in San Juan intrigues me, and I plan to take my friend there. Additionally, I adore the Laguna Beach area, Crystal Cove State Park, the Richard Nixon Presidential Library and Museum, Huntington Beach Pier, and, of course, Disneyland. Thank you for fostering such a welcoming environment in this vibrant community.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Thank you for posing this question. Success is rarely achieved in isolation; it often requires the support of good people and mentors who uplift you. I’d like to begin by acknowledging my first mentor, Mr. Bruce Braviroff,(Your CFO). During our discussions, he encouraged me, recognizing the potential of my product but advising me to be more vocal about it. I distinctly recall expressing my gratitude but also sharing my reservations about my background as an Iranian American immigrant, arriving here at the age of 34 with a Farsi accent, which made me hesitant to speak in public.

His response was transformative. He not only lifted my spirits but instilled in me the self-confidence to speak openly about the unique fusion of dates and chocolate that I had created. This marked the beginning, and as I progressed, other organizations played pivotal roles in my journey. Les Dames d’Escoffier, OC LA chapter, and FCIA (Fine Chocolate Industry Association), OC Greer OC , Chocolate Cult , Chocolate Professor , Candy USA , Good Day LA FOX channel, Orange Coast magazine, provided significant support. Additionally, the expertise and strategic guidance from Dr.Behrooz Lotfian as a global partner of Ries Positioning Pioneer shared invaluable knowledge, contributing to our ongoing growth.

Website: www.dateolate.com

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

Linkedin: Dateolate

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Dateolate_Roya

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100077447438354

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@dateolate8725

Image Credits
Photo Credit : Dateolate Team

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