The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Design - Vanessa Watts & Erika Dray - Defining Hospitality - Episode # 164

In today’s episode, Dan sits down to talk with a fiery design duo who have overcome new business challenges and thrived in the interior design industry. They are the co-founders and current partners of Watts & Dray: Vanessa Watts and Erika Dray. The two provide insights into their journey from creative director and fashion designer into partners who built a company from scratch. Take a listen and hear their story, as well as some valuable insights!

Takeaways: 

• The importance of genuine human connection and attentiveness in hospitality can't be overstated. Leaders should foster an environment where team members feel genuinely cared for and where they, in turn, extend that care to clients and colleagues alike.
• Hospitality is not just for the elite but should be extended to everyone, regardless of their background or status. This inclusive approach can help create a more welcoming and supportive team culture.
• Starting and running a business often involves numerous setbacks. Leaders should be prepared to navigate these challenges with resilience and adaptability, learning from mistakes and constantly iterating on their approach.
• While passion and spontaneity are crucial, having a well-thought-out plan and understanding business dynamics like cash flow and client acquisition can significantly impact success.
• Allow room for wild and innovative ideas, and don’t be afraid to pursue unconventional projects. 
• Building a business with a partner involves clear communication, respect, and a shared vision.
• Don't wait for the perfect moment or perfect plan to start. Begin your entrepreneurial journey with the understanding that learning and adjustments are part of the process.

Quote of the Show:

• “At that point in my career, I had never designed anything on my own. It had always been through a studio, for studio clients, and no one had ever asked me to design anything on my own, but I have some pretty wild ideas about what I think the world should look like.” - Vanessa Watts

Links:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-watts-nyc/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-dray-6356897/ 
• Website: https://www.watts-dray.com/ 

Shout Outs:

• 12:55 - Mike Suomi https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikesuomi/ https://suomidesignworks.com/ 
• 34:45 - Fallin’ and Flyin’ Jeff Bridges https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LTYyS8bxV78 
• 37:35 - The Luxor Hotel https://luxor.mgmresorts.com/en.html 
• 40:04 - The Cosmopolitan https://www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com/?utm_source=google&utm_medium=search&utm_campaign=mgm_corporate_performance_brand_2024&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAjwqf20BhBwEiwAt7dtdQ6OeEWYeaqbIeqgrtKGGEJy-0y8zcmX8OQvbZP5OgUPFXtmzNndaxoC9bUQAvD_BwE 

Ways to Tune In: 

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0A2XOJvb6mGqEPYJ5bilPX
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1573596386?i=1000663163850
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZGVmaW5pbmdob3NwaXRhbGl0eS5saXZlL2ZlZWQueG1s
• Amazon Music: ​​https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/8c904932-90fa-41c3-813e-1cb8f3c42419
• Transistor: https://www.defininghospitality.live/