We had the good fortune of connecting with Suzanne Najem and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Suzanne, have you built meaningful relationships at networking events? What makes you want to connect with someone, and what are things people do that make you want to steer clear?
I really like connecting with people at events by getting to know them and not just from a business perspective. But to really know and understand people on a deeper level. It can really open so many different doors for you. Whether it’s developing new friendships or establishing a business relationship down the line. I always appreciate when others ask questions and want to get to know me as a person and not just the face of a business. I avoid people who only look at you as a business opportunity.

What should our readers know about your business?
I’ve had my on-line business, PippaAndPearl.com for nearly 5 years and we’ve recently had the opportunity to open up a physical location in the Galleria Mall. I have to say it was definitely my proudest moment. To have a physical location has always been a dream of mine, let alone in the heart of Houston. This journey has definitely NOT been easy. My biggest obstacle has definitely been trying to balance family life and a business. I have had 3 kids in the past 5 years, so I’ve had my fair share of challenges. I overcame those challenges by just staying persistent. Even if I could only get 1 thing done a day, I kept going, until my entire list was done. If you keep pushing, and you keep going, one day you will look up and realize your to-do list gets completed. One of the lessons I’ve learned besides perseverance is to value your cheerleaders. Along the way, you will find people who believe in you and want you to succeed. Hang on to them. They are valuable, because when you feel like giving up, they will be what keeps you going. I want people to know, as the owner of Pippa & Pearl, that I care. From my customers, to my employees, the products, the web page, the packaging, and to the smallest minute details. I care about it all.

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
I love Houston so much, I like to think I know it like the back of my hand! As a big foodie, I definitely love to check out all of the mom and pop restaurants located in the heights. There are so many, I couldn’t just pick one. I tend to always take people visiting to Hermann Park. Not only are there the great museums, but great outdoor space to go for a stroll. We would have to check out theatre district and make sure we aren’t missing any great shows or performances. River Oaks District is another great area to visit with so many great dinner options and also going for a night walk. You could also hang out on Washington if you are looking to hear live music or go dancing. Houston is also great for food trucks, I could go on and on about the food!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Anya Carranza! She is the sweetest person I have worked with. She has been one of my biggest supporters I’ve had the privilege to meet this past year. She supports small businesses and wants to see them succeed. She recently hosted The Connection Tour to help small businesses network with each other and establish relationships that would otherwise be hard to make. She has just been a big cheerleader ever since I’ve known her.

Website: https://www.pippaandpearl.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pippaandpearl/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10809621/admin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PippaAndPearl
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PippaAndPearl/

Image Credits
Cody Bess Jarod Pierson Neil Jou