Marialana DiMarzio - Respect the Founder Interview
What is the name of your business?
The Artists Hub Direct Access
Where are you from?
Staten Island, New York
What was your first business? How old were you?
My first business was a hair salon. I was about 19/20 years old. I had been modeling for a hair product line and the opportunity presented itself. It was a lesson for me. There’s a lot more to business than I had realized, lots and lots of bills!
When did you know working for yourself was the way to go?
My father had arranged for me to work for his friend who had just hired a controller for his growing business. I learned that I had a whole lot to learn and ended up transferring into NYU. I took classes and worked, very long days. I ended up working for accounting firms and was exposed to various businesses. My favorite was managing Broadway plays. That led to working in NY city’s oldest private club, for actors and patrons of the arts. That was right up my alley since I’ve been performing and creating most of my life. Getting back to being creative was stirred up and I started transitioning into working events, budgeting and planning, producing a great experience and engaging with people. Wherever I worked, whatever I was doing, I knew I was capable of more. I knew I wanted more. I create businesses, memorable experiences, spark conversations and enjoy living life doing things my way.
Can you talk us through your career to date and how you found your way to where you are now?
The hair salon was an eye opener. I’ve owned a baby boutique, a shoe store, I even produced and hosted a variety show on local tv. When you’re creative you have to create. Creativity needs an outlet. Let it out! The first time I was on a stage I was 4 years old. I was in the gifted and talented school programs, art honors. I was with a dance company, I’ve won ballroom dance competitions! I’ve written and recorded music, I’ve acted on film and stage, again creativity needs an outlet and I’m a creative person. My latest venture is The Artists Hub Direct Access, TAHDA.online It’s an online gallery of original creations made in America. A hub is a central point where multiple things connect, gather, or are coordinated. Art is human expression shaped into a form that communicates ideas, emotions, or experiences beyond ordinary language. At its core, art is the creative act of making meaning. We’re the place online that an interior designer, a decorator, as well as a consumer can search for something unique and original. We have several different categories such as visual art, wearable art, structural art. Creativity has no boundaries!
What inspired you to start your business?
I ordered something custom online from a popular site. I was worried about it’s delivery and was able to email the seller. I discovered they were in another country! I was surprised to say the least and it started me thinking…and creating. The more I talked to my artist friends the more I thought of creating something that could overcome some of their obstacles. It’s not easy to get your work into a gallery; it’s not easy renting space and hosting your own art show; it’s not easy maintaining a website; it’s not easy advertising; it costs time and money. The Artists Hub Direct Access is where groups of artists share space and vision as only Americans can express themselves. We’ll be coordinating events and exhibitions that help emerging artists develop and seasoned artists shine. A melting pot of creativity expressed in a way that can only exist in America. It starts with TAHDA.online
What are some of the biggest challenges you see in your market?
One of the biggest challenges is the decline in patriotism. The ignorance of the history of our country, why it was founded, why there is no other country like ours, America. I’m flabbergasted by some of the polls they put out, I don’t want to believe they’re real. The First Amendment is distinctive because it prohibits government censorship based on content or viewpoint to an extent unmatched elsewhere. The U.S. is often described as a “melting pot,” shaped by immigration from every region of the world. This blending has created a uniquely mixed national culture. A Presidential quote from John F. Kennedy: “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country”. This is what I can do, a hub for American creators who can openly express themselves and feel good about it…especially when their creation sells!
Who was one of your biggest supporters early on?
My artist friends loved the idea when I told them. The site is exclusively for American made art, with every artist USPS verified for authenticity. Members keep more of their earnings, ship directly to buyers, and are automatically entered each month for a chance to become our Featured Artist, earning premium exposure and unlimited listings. Some saw it as a plus for patriotism and a vehicle to drive up sales. They all loved the idea of it becoming a “go to” for interior designers and decorators, where they can get an original piece for their project.
What advice do you have for professionals looking to get started in your industry?
I would encourage everyone to embrace their creative side. Express yourself, there is no “wrong”. If you have an idea, if you have a vision, draw it, paint it, create it, make it happen. Don’t procrastinate, do it. You can snap your finger to a beat, but you can’t make things happen at a snap of a finger. You work to get things done. There are obstacles and setbacks. Nothing’s perfect. Don’t give up.
Can you recommend one good business book?
I can’t claim to be a book reader, there are a few novels I have read in my lifetime. I would encourage everyone to play chess. It’s a game of strategy. You need to anticipate your opponents move and plan accordingly. Your brain is a muscle, exercise it, use it.
What is some advice you would give to someone with a dream?
If you have a dream, make it attainable. You can be whatever you want. You can make it happen. Don’t listen to the noise out there. Believe in yourself. Believe.
Instagram: @tahdaonline
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