Andréa Bernholtz on being a serial entrepreneur and using social media and ambassadors to spread the Swiminista mission

Describe Swiminista in a few words?

Chic eco friendly womens and little girls luxury swimwear.

What made you take the leap to start your own business?

I had always been an entrepreneur and I had sold my former clothing business, Rock & Republic and my friends and I were complaining about the lack of chic good fitting swimwear, they suggested I start a brand of swimwear.

What was your background prior to starting your own business?

I have been an entrepreneur for many many years, I have always had different small businesses, however to fund my big businesses I acted in TV commercials and small TV roles.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

I always knew I had to travel on my own path, yes.

Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

With Swiminista it was all about social media and connecting with ambassadors to get the word out.

We always learn the most from our mistakes, share a time with us that you made a mistake or had a challenging time in business and what you learned from it?

My biggest mistakes always come from not listening to my gut and ignoring that little voice inside.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

Having Swiminista sold in the Four Seasons in Maui and Kona, where I have lived.

How has your business or industry been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic?

We basically had no business for nearly nine months, many retailers closed, making our online business crucial for our future.

What’s next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

More collaborations and a wider variety of products, and available in more retailers online as well as brick and mortar.

What is the biggest lesson you have learned in 2020?

Patience and trust. I used the shut down period to completely revamp my website and implement a size guide to help get the correct fit.

What do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting your business?

That it takes a lot more time to move the needle then we all hope for.

How have you managed to stay grounded this year?

Kept working and designing and getting organized.

Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

There are times it is in balance but most of the time it is not. Being organized, patient and kind are my best tools.

What’s something our audience would be surprised to learn about you?

I’m a huge smartass and always look to humor in everything I do.

What are your top 3 tips to stay productive each day?

Write lists, keep timers set to stay on track, and clean up as you go.

What does being an Entreprenista mean to you?

Being a strong force as a women entrepreneur.