Creating an interactive, high-tech, and design-forward self-service store

One often hears that the venture capital world is all about the money, and indeed it seems easy to get funding and start a business in the US.

But the fact is, almost all venture capital firms are simply investing safely in what everyone else is investing in. And for the past decade, that has been social media and its entrepreneurs. This has had a negative impact on investment in businesses that manufacture more tangible products. In other words, it’s been very difficult to raise capital outside of internet and mobile ventures!

This is why I wanted to meet Mara and hear her story, to explore how she was able to raise funds when launching UTIQUE. We often share these difficult experiences, and now we face the challenge of navigating this economic era together.

Furthermore, she leverages her background, having studied design, business strategy, and many other disciplines, to build brands and create value in a chaotic consumer market.

At her U*tique Shop (http://www.utiqueshop.com/), Mara has created what may be the world's first interactive, high-tech, and design-forward self-service store. This shop combines style and technology with convenience, offering consumers an aspirational "must-have" category from segments ranging from current luxury to personal care products. Mara also holds an honorary Bachelor of Architecture degree from Yale University.

I am very passionate and always maintain a good balance

MatthewHow do you maintain your inspiration and motivation?

MaraI am captivated by the flow of visual imagery on the web right now. Sites like Pinterest (http://pinterest.com/), Fancy (http://www.thefancy.com/), and Svpply (https://svpply.com/). Where people consume highly visually appealing and innovative products 24/7, and can immediately access their favorite picks and curated recommendations.
Regarding motivation, I make a conscious effort to maintain a good balance when it comes to the business aspects. In that sense, I am very passionate, so it’s necessary to ensure smooth operations.
Furthermore, the talented people around me continuously provide a source of inspiration.

MatthewYour project at Utique is clearly technologically progressive. Could you describe the future technology you are looking forward to?

MaraI look forward to a world where small, wearable devices project screens that handle all the functions of a smartphone and expand the interface experience, and where there are fewer cords.

MatthewAre there any difficulties in being a female entrepreneur?

MaraI generally find it difficult to be an entrepreneur, especially when you are introducing a product you conceived yourself and trying to pioneer a new market, as you are doing now.

I have had some unpleasant experiences as a female entrepreneur because it involves a shift from the existing paradigm.
However, I believe the stereotype of the increasing number of female entrepreneurs is changing, and exceptions to those standards are becoming more accepted.

U*tique Shop.
http://www.utiqueshop.com/