Meet Steve Boyadzhyan | Director and Author

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

Hi Steve, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting my own business as a children’s book author, specifically focusing on creating books that incorporate Armenian traditions, foods, and words, while being written in English, was driven by a combination of personal and cultural motivations.

First and foremost, I wanted to create a meaningful and enriching experience for my own children, Sienna and Jace, by immersing them in our Armenian heritage and traditions. Even though we live outside of Armenia, I wanted to ensure that our cultural identity remained strong within our family. By writing books that reflect our heritage, I could instill a sense of pride and connection to their Armenian roots.

Additionally, I recognized the importance of cultural diversity and representation in children’s literature. I wanted to provide a platform for diaspora Armenian children, as well as children from different backgrounds, to learn about Armenian culture, words, and traditions. By incorporating Armenian elements into the books, I aimed to promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation among young readers.

Moreover, I believe in the power of storytelling and books as educational tools. By addressing general topics like healthy habits and reaching for the stars, I aimed to provide valuable life lessons to children while also incorporating Armenian cultural elements. This approach allows children to learn about important concepts and values while being exposed to a different culture.

In addition to my current venture as a children’s book author, my entrepreneurial journey has encompassed diverse paths. In the past, I successfully owned and operated a luxury men’s salon for five years, catering to the grooming needs of discerning clients. Following that, I ventured into the world of e-commerce and established an Etsy print on demand business, showcasing my artistic flair and creativity. Furthermore, my professional career has led me to work as a Director of Post Production at one of the largest movie studios, contributing to the magic of storytelling on the silver screen. While these experiences have been fulfilling in their own right, it is through my role as an author that I truly find my calling and express my deepest passions. Crafting captivating stories that embody the fusion of cultural heritage, education, and imagination is where I feel most inspired and fulfilled, and it is what truly defines me as an individual.

Overall, my thought process behind starting my own business as a children’s book author was driven by a strong desire to preserve and pass on Armenian traditions to my own children, promote cultural diversity and representation, and provide an educational and enriching experience for young readers. I wanted to create books that would not only resonate with Armenian children but also spark curiosity and interest in children from various backgrounds, fostering a greater understanding and appreciation for different cultures.

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?
As a children’s book author and entrepreneur, what sets me apart is my passion for incorporating cultural diversity and representation into my stories. By infusing Armenian traditions, foods, and words into my books written in English, I aim to provide a unique and enriching experience for young readers, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

My journey to where I am today professionally has been a combination of hard work, perseverance, and a genuine love for storytelling. It certainly wasn’t easy, as entrepreneurship and creative pursuits often come with their own set of challenges. Overcoming these obstacles required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn from both successes and failures.

One of the key lessons I’ve learned along the way is the importance of embracing and learning from failure. My first business, a luxury men’s salon, was not an easy road nor was it easy to close and move on after 5 years of incredible hard work, but by approaching setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement, I’ve been able to refine my craft and make better business decisions. Additionally, building a strong support network and seeking guidance from mentors and peers has been invaluable in navigating challenges and staying motivated.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that my purpose extends beyond simply writing children’s books. I aspire to make a meaningful impact by promoting cultural understanding, education, and inclusivity through storytelling. I am proud of the work I do in creating books that reflect the diversity of our world and inspire young readers to embrace their own heritage while embracing others. In addition to my journey as a children’s book author, it is important for the world to know that I have ascended from an intern to a director in a short period of time within the realm of the film and television industry, through unwavering tenacity and an unwavering commitment to excellence. By a tireless work ethic and a steadfast pursuit of mastery in my craft, I have been able to navigate the intricacies of the industry and seize opportunities for growth and advancement. This professional trajectory has propelled me to work alongside some of the largest movie and TV studios, further honing my creative acumen and leadership skills and opening opportunities for me to pursue my passion for writing.

In essence, my brand and story are centered around fostering cultural appreciation, empowering children to embrace their identities, and providing educational and engaging literature. I want to leave a positive imprint on young minds, opening doors to new perspectives and celebrating the beauty of different cultures. By blending tradition and modernity, I hope to contribute to a more inclusive and compassionate world, one story at a time.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
During a friends week-long visit to Los Angeles, I would make sure to show them the best of what this vibrant city has to offer. We would embark on a journey to discover the diverse neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and cultural gems that make LA so special.

Our first stop would be Griffith Observatory, where we would gaze at the breathtaking panoramic views of the city and delve into the fascinating world of astronomy.

A visit to Little Armenia would be an essential part of our itinerary, where we would wander through the lively streets, savoring the aromas of traditional Armenian cuisine and browsing shops showcasing unique Armenian crafts. We would take the opportunity to learn more about the rich cultural heritage and connect with the local Armenian community. A stop to Glendale, CA would be next where a huge part of the population is Armenian, and includes amazing Armenian cuisine and stores, one of which is Abril bookstore which carries my Sienna and Jace Armenian Children’s Books!

We would spend a day in the picturesque town of Malibu, enjoying its pristine beaches and exploring the scenic hiking trails. We might even venture out for a day trip to Santa Barbara, soaking up the Spanish-style architecture, visiting the Santa Barbara Mission, and indulging in wine tasting at the local vineyards.

Of course, no trip to LA would be complete without exploring the world of entertainment. We would spend a day at Universal Studios Hollywood, which was the very first job I had in high school and college! Immersing ourselves in the magic of the movies and enjoying thrilling rides, Disneyland would also be a stop, due to my love for storytelling and attention to detail. Universal Studios Hollywood and Disneyland are the top of the storytelling and creative ladder!

No stop to LA would be complete without taking a weekend getaway to our neighbors in Nevada, and going to Las Vegas. Incredible entertainment, attention to detail, cuisine, and shows, Las Vegas would have to be a stop for a good friend of mine!

From the sunsets on Santa Monica Beach to the hidden gems of Little Armenia, our journey would encompass the essence of Los Angeles (and neighbor Nevada)—a vibrant city bursting with cultural diversity, artistic expression, and boundless opportunities for unforgettable experiences.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
In my journey as a children’s book author and entrepreneur, there are several individuals who deserve credit and recognition for their significant contributions and unwavering support. First and foremost, I would like to give a heartfelt shoutout to my grandparents, who displayed immense courage and resilience by moving from Greece and Lebanon to Armenia, even though they didn’t speak the language. Their determination to create a better future for themselves and their descendants is truly commendable and serves as an inspiration for me.

Equally deserving of recognition are my parents, Andranik and Mariam, who made the bold decision to migrate from Armenia to America, facing the challenges of language barriers and cultural adjustments. Their sacrifices and perseverance in overcoming obstacles have paved the way for the success and opportunities that my brother Petros and I have been able to achieve. I owe a great deal of my motivation and determination to them, as their unwavering support and belief in our potential have been instrumental in shaping my journey.

Furthermore, I want to give a special shoutout to my children, Sienna and Jace, who are not only the stars of my books but also my greatest source of inspiration. Their curiosity, imagination, and enthusiasm fuel my passion for writing stories that resonate with young readers. Their presence in my life continually reminds me of the importance of instilling cultural heritage and values in the next generation.

Lastly, I express my deepest gratitude to my wife Lucin for her unwavering support throughout this entire journey. Her unconditional love, understanding, and encouragement have been invaluable in helping me pursue my dreams and navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship. Her belief in my vision has been a constant source of strength and motivation.

To my grandparents, parents, children, and wife – your contributions, sacrifices, and support have played an integral role in my personal and professional growth. I am forever grateful for the love, resilience, and belief you have shown me, and I attribute much of my success to each and every one of you.

Website: amazon.com/author/steveboy

Instagram: @Sienna.and.Jace.Books

Linkedin: Steve Boyadzhyan

Other: Can also purchase my children’s books on Etsy alongside my other print on demand items! https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheCustomPrintParty?ref=seller-platform-mcnav&section_id=42427521