Don't wait till you are big before you begin building your brand. Build a brand from scratch alongside your business.

My people are at the core of everything I do, and I recognize the importance of giving them the flexibility to balance work around their personal lives.

I just kind of dive in if I think I can create something that will make a difference and then try to get the numbers to stack up after the event. So most of the things I've done I would not have done if I'd have asked the accountants to look at them before.

If you are a new startup company, try not to arouse the interest or suspicion of your competition; especially if they are a bigger company. They can crush you while you are still in your startup phase. Lie low while still strengthening your bottom line.

I am a great believer that you need passion and energy to create a truly successful business.

Your company should act as a springboard for ambitious employees, not a set of shackles.

Quality brands never go bankrupt.