Kurtina Pollen, President & Principal Consultant
I had the amazing opportunity of attending Paparazzi’s annual convention, One Life. The convention was both inspiring and informative. It made me think about my “why”. Why did I become an Independent Paparazzi Consultant? Why did I start my own business? My path to Paparazzi did not start with wanting to sell jewelry. I am blessed to have a full-time career in communications and technology that I love. I wanted to use that foundation to start my own business after a friend said to me, “you need to incorporate yourself”. That statement and my wanting to provide an entrepreneurial example to my niece and nephews were my initial “why”. If they see me pursuing my dreams, they will know they can endeavor for anything. Full of vision and strategy, I launched Elevated Me, LLC as an image consulting business in April 2017.
Another friend (later to become my Paparazzi sponsor) asked me to conduct training for her team of Independent Paparazzi Consultants. I said yes! I decided to do training on color analysis as it relates to accessories. I loved it. The team of consultants were engaged, had great questions and were very nice. Later, a few booked color analysis appointments with me and some said, “you should sell Paparazzi”. After thinking about it, I said “yes” again. My initial consideration was that Paparazzi would be a great product for my clients. I had no idea what was about to happen!
Paparazzi has created such a buzz for me and my ever-growing circle. Being an Independent Paparazzi Consultant helped me step outside of my comfort zone. I tend to be a private person and, believe it or not, I can be shy. Yes, I co-anchor a weekly newscast at work. But doing Facebook Live as a salesperson was not something I naturally wanted to do. Post pictures of myself….hmmm…no way! Guess what? I love it now! Now that I’m in the Bling Business, I have this amazing opportunity to meet people while I am at Elevated Me events. I get excited about every chance to make lasting connections and friends.
And then there is the sisterhood and brotherhood of being an Independent Paparazzi Consultant. Yes, I said brotherhood. Men and couples sell Paparazzi also! I am empowered by the networking, friendships, and business relationships I have formed with other consultants. Those connections grew even wider and deeper at One Life 2019. What an amazing experience! I learned things that I can use in all aspects of my business and life, not just with Paparazzi.
Pastor Eric, also known as “ET” was one of the keynote speakers at One Life. Key points I took away from his presentation were:
I can. I will. I must.
If you treat it like a hobby, it will be a hobby. This is not a hobby, this is not a hustle, it’s a craft. Treat it like one.
I belong.
As you become successful, don’t become overwhelmed.
I am the head, not the tail.
You can’t pay me enough to mess up my brand. It can be your personal or professional brand. It is still YOUR brand.
Why do you do what you do? Do it for the right reason. You can’t catch me if you just want money. My why is too strong!
I only have One Life. I want to make it BLING!
B – Be a Product of the Product
L – Lead by Example
I – Inspire Others
N – New Perspective
G – Get Out There!
Do you want to BLING with me? Join my team. Team Elevated!