It’s not often you come across someone with such a mind for business, who also cares so genuinely and so deeply about their staff and clients, but then again there can’t be too many unicorn women like Chrissy Symeonakis in the world.
Chrissy is an absolute powerhouse of a woman who has not only thrived during a global pandemic, but while in the thick of it, launched TWO more successful businesses. All whilst dealing with her own Chronic Illness. As the newest addition to the Creative Little Soul Family, I sat down with our Fearless Leader so she could reintroduce herself to us.
What inspired you to start Creative Little Soul?
It started off as a side hustle to make some extra money while I was working in my full-time job. I was always asked by people to write media releases, bios and event copy so I set up Creative Little Soul (CLS) initially for that. When I was diagnosed with MS, I knew that the “corporate” world and the company I was working for wasn’t going to support or give me the freedom or flexibility I needed in life. Therefore, I took the plunge with no savings and just two weeks of annual leave and started my business. I really had to get it to work and was all in. Fast forward almost 9.5 years and here we are!
How did you break into the industry?
I’m fortunate in that my Aunty Trudy Vesotsky growing up was (and even still is now) my biggest mentor and motivator. She was the community services manager for the local council. I was “made” (lovingly) to join the Youth Week Committee, Youth Council and then the Youth Newspaper. I always wanted to be a writer and was really good at writing and English, so I was able to do some writing courses. These then led to me undertaking studies in Journalism, public relations, marketing, and radio announcing. As a result of this, I ended up moving from my hometown of Renmark SA, and being head hunted and called by my good friend and DJ, Souli. I legit got a call on a Thursday saying, “I have a job for you” and on Monday I had moved to Adelaide and started working for Heaven Nightclub doing their marketing, promotions and membership. Those were some pivotal moments, but there are plenty of other cool ones too. I still work for Souli on his events today, so it’s cool how its come full circle also.
Why do you believe that you are so passionate about helping women break into and build within the industry (your staff)?
I am huge on personal empowerment and working with other women to have them step into their power and passion. I’ve worked for some toxic boys’ clubs where myself and my team (all female) we treated like shit. Sexually harassed, gaslit and even underpaid compared to our male counterparts. Having had that shit experience I always vowed that I wanted to create a welcoming and cheer-leading space for the sisterhood where we can all kick arse together. Plus, I want to be around other amazing women cheering them on.
What self-care rituals do you have?
As someone with diagnosed OCD, systems and rituals are my jam. For me, in the morning it’s all about waking up to a meditation, bathroom things, then coffee, gratitude practices and journal. I always have tunes on and love to sing and raise my vibration before I start chatting to staff and clients. I also make sure I take all my vitamins and nutrients as well as drink loads of water. There’s a hectic night routine too, which involves more journaling, a mental dump of everything running around in my mind (I email myself anything and everything for the next day) and pump my aromatherapy diffuser and a next level skincare regime.
Dream/Fantasy/Crush Client to work with?
I’ve worked already with some huge brands and clients and the bigger the brand or client the more bullshit and hoops there are to jump through. My crush clients are the smaller fish, the single or solo business owners, start-ups and women in business. I’m passionate about helping people take that idea or product and bring that to market. They are my people. I have some huge clients across some massive brands globally, but I am content just doing the things behind the scenes vs name dropping.
Any advice for someone thinking about starting their own business?
Research your idea/ product well first to see if it’s a viable option. Be prepared to put in the work. Get an awesome mentor, study and keep learning all the time. It will be really freaking hard at times, you’ll likely doubt and question yourself, but it’s one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do because of the freedom and flexibility and life you are creating.
Fave Disney Princess? (I know I’m asking you to choose between your children here)
Haha I can’t pick just 1 but I can give you my top 3 TODAY (this is my standard answer as it often changes) but today would be
Elsa, Ariel, Snow White
Chrissy is one of the nicest, caring and compassionate people you can meet. She has a huge heart, and she does so much for free. Having mentored me personally for the last year as well as many others in business she has bootstrapped some awesome brands over the years. She’s no bullshit and has a tough exterior, but don’t let that fool you. Having only been with the team for the last month the amount she has done for her staff and her clients without wanting anything in return is phenomenal, and it’s easy to see why CLS has been built into the strong reputable brand it is today.
If you’re looking to level up your business and are unsure where to start, get in touch with Chrissy. She will work with you and meet you wherever you are at and she won’t break the bank either, so do reach out!