Kathy Grandfield

Name of Business: Chocolatecture and Red Texture
Type of Business: Artisan Chocolates and Jewelry
Web Site: http://www.kathleengrandfield.com/
Email: Kathy@red-texture.com
Tell us more about your business.

Red Texture was conceived while I was living in London. I began collecting vintage jewelry and then retro-fitted them into modern pieces. I used to own a clothing and accessory boutique before I moved to London so I had a background in the Fashion Industry. My friends always complained about not being able to find the right piece of jewelry for their outfits and they didn’t like the mainstream pieces that were out there so I began designing pieces for them and other people saw them and asked them where they got it and that’s how the business was born.

Chocolatecture came about back in 2005 when I decided to do novelty chocolates and truffles for my clients. I begin doing “pink high heels” for little gifts for when they purchased the jewelry and then came the truffles. Pretty soon people were asking for the chocolates also. So in 2007 I decided to take things a step further and became a Certified Chocolatier.

Why did you decide to start this type of woman-owned business?

Red Texture was started out of my love for Fashion and Chocolatecture emerged from my passion for creative cooking.

What makes your business unique? For my jewelry designs I prefer doing “one of a kind” items so that women feel they have a very special piece that reflects their personality. In my chocolate business I have done a number of hand painted novelty chocolates and currently am offering doing logos on chocolate for business cards which I think is a wonderful way to market yourself differently than what others are doing with just a paper business card.

Can you share with us the challenges that you have encountered related to starting a business?

As a woman I think one of the biggest challenges is balancing family life with running a business. We tend to be very “giving” with our time so it is always a challenge to balance things. Also money is a huge factor. Another issue that I struggle with is finding the right people to work with to grow the business in the fashion that reflects your sense of ethics and follows your original concept.

How did you overcome these challenges?

Well I am still working on the “money” thing. We always feel there’s never enough working capitol. I would like to expand and am exploring that now. One thing that made sense to me was doing the “Bootstrapping” theory. I begin by creating samples of merchandise and then go out into the market to develop new accounts. So I start to plant the seed and create business first and then expand on that. I feel it’s better to invest capitol after the accounts exist.

What has been your biggest success thus far?

For both businesses getting published is a wonderful affirmation as well as kudos and referrals from clients. Last month I was on a nationally syndicated TV show for my jewelry so that felt really good also.

What is your favorite free business resource?

The Small Business Development Group here in Austin has been wonderful for giving free advice.

What words of advice would you provide to others who are considering starting a business?

I think the “Bootstrapping Method” is a very valid way of starting. Align yourself with people who compliment your talents so you can create a cohesive group. If you are talented in one area but lack other skills then find those people to help complete the concept. Hiring a career coach also will help give you some direction on your path. Follow your passions and find your purpose in life. Passion plus purpose equals power.

Do you have any special offers for those reading this interview?

I would like to offer those reading the article 20% off their purchase. We have configured our online shopping cart with the promotion of 20% off for one week of shopping using the Pink Heels Code of 32008. Enjoy!

Kathy recently sent Pink Heels a few samples of her chocolate and all that I can say is, "HEAVENLY DELICIOUS." Her chocolates are the BEST EVER and I am very picky about my chocolate. Watch out Beligium...Kathy is better! : )