The Financially Savvy Female had the opportunity to chat with Cynthia Bailey, model, actress, entrepreneur and star of Bravo TV’s “Real Housewives of Atlanta.” She is the founder of several businesses, including The Bailey Room event space, The Bailey Agency School of Fashion, The Bailey Wine Cellar and the luxury leather accessory collection CB VIOR. Here, we chat with Bailey about the inspiration behind her ventures, her biggest struggle as an entrepreneur and her best tip for starting a business.

                By                    Gabrielle Olya

You’ve started several businesses, including event spaces and an accessory line. Where do you find your inspiration?

My inspiration for the businesses that I have started comes from all the things that I organically love, care about or have passion for. My brand is fashion, beauty, lifestyle, travel and wellness. All of my businesses are a reflection of my brand, expertise and lifestyle in one way or the other.

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What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as an entrepreneur?

My biggest challenge has been trying to juggle and balance my business life and my personal life. Becoming a successful businesswoman is part one, staying successful is part two — and the most important part. The real work is sustaining a business and keeping it successful while trying to have a personal/family life at the same time. It is very difficult and one of my biggest obstacles.

What advice would you give to other women who want to start their own businesses?

Start one business at a time and nurture it. Don’t overwhelm yourself. I always compare my businesses to having a new baby. Feed it, love it and take care of it. Like a baby, that is the only way it can be healthy and grow.

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Jaime Catmull contributed to the reporting for this article.