I've been writing an ongoing letter to my children since they were born, full of recollections of their childhoods. I've filled two journals. It's a great thing to do as a mother - you forget a lot as you go along, but reading over what you've written brings all the memories back.

I like being behind the scene.

I like being straightforward. We can deal with anything as long as it's on the table.

Never underestimate the impact of a small act.

An important lesson: Things that look like an overnight success usually aren't.

I wanted stores that would feel like a comfortable room in my apartment, cozy and colorful and different.

Big businesses can help by engaging aspiring entrepreneurs and promoting initiatives which support small businesses from within.