Meet Sonianne Messersmith | Entrepreneur, wife and mother.

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

Hi Sonianne, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks, chances and change sums me up, and has always played a major role in my life and career choices. I am an immigrant to the United States-that was my first big risk. Leaving my family, friends, everything and everyone I knew and felt comfortable with behind, to move here was terrifying, but at 21 years old, I felt compelled to make the change. I am happier, more successful and at peace with myself because of the risks I have taken, they have not only open doors and opportunities, but has allowed me to be more accepting, understanding and tolerant of others.
I still do not have my parents, or any of my siblings living in the US, but because of the risks I have taken, I am able to visit whenever I want as long as I carve out the time.

What should our readers know about your business?
My business takes up a small part of the shoe industry. Our niche is foldable shoes, and our logo is, the ultimate foldable shoes for the busy lifestyle. Finding someone overseas to make samples and manufacture the shoes wasn’t very challenging, but I am learning that it’s important to have more than one manufacturer. My business is still unfolding, so each day I have to remember to wear my hats of patience and perseverance when things don’t go as planned. I want everyone to know it’s never too late to begin a business or simply to follow their ambitions. Life is more exciting when we are doing the things we love even if it comes with some headaches along the way. I never want to say I should have done this or that. I want to know that I tried and gave it my best shot.

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.
Taking my business hats off for the weekend to show my friend from out of town a good time Is easy. We are dancing, dining and hiking…exercise is a must for all the good food we will be consuming. So, Griffith Observatory for hiking and taking in the sights. For dining, my local favorite spot is the Ritz in Marina Del Rey, I could go there for breakfast, lunch and dinner, but I won’t. Mastro’s in Beverly Hills for another dining experience. Still searching for a great place for dancing in LA, but will be sure to find one. Warehouse for breakfast is becoming a must on Sunday mornings. And of course, it goes without saying, we will find time to visit Century City Shopping Plaza.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Fortunately or unfortuanly, I have always said, I’ve never had a mentor, and I never did. I’ve also always said, I have to be my own cheer leader, because I always have. With that said, I would like to take this opportunity to thank my amazing husband who has join my cheer squad of one, now two. Anytime I feel like I’m drowning and it’s just too much, he is the one person who reminds me of how far I have come and how much I have accomplished. He says and does all the things to get me going again. Regarding organizations, I recently joined GLAAACC, Greater Los Angeles African American Chamber of Commerce. They have a great program for seasoned and new entrepreneurs that is instrumental in helping them to stay organized and to operate more efficiently.

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