At BrilliantRead Media, we always strive to bring to our community some of the finest stories from the entrepreneurship world. As part of this endeavour, we invited yet another passionate entrepreneur – Aashita Gupta for an exclusive interview with us. Aashita is a Leader, Entrepreneur, Brand Consultant, and Strategist. She is the Co-Founder and Brand Strategist of Abranda Studio. Let’s learn more about her inspiring journey, her background and her advice for our growing community!
Excerpts from our exclusive interview with Aashita:
We are aware of your contribution to the ecosystem, talk us through your background and your journey as a women entrepreneur, please;
I have a rich experience across consumer research, strategic branding, and communications, leading projects for 50+ brands including L’Opera, Mr Makhana, Vanilla Moon, and Niana Candles.
Possessing extensive hands-on experience of working with IPL teams and international cricketers, I bring a culture of enthusiasm, creativity, and growth at Abranda.
My intuitive understanding of people and businesses makes me a boardroom favourite across organisations in India, Dubai, London, Barbados, & New York. I’ve also worked on an exclusive proposal for Rihanna and written features for magazines like Business World Disrupt.
What attracts you towards entrepreneurship instead of a corporate career?
I was always more inclined towards learning through experiences. Entrepreneurship offers something rich and challenging every moment.
It helps me learn new things everyday – not just a decorated corporate skillset, but life skills.”
Patience, problem-solving ability, and consistency don’t necessarily come easy or naturally to people but an entrepreneurial journey can teach you these skills like no other.
Besides the learning, it’s the adrenaline rush that you get by creating something new and better. Better products/ services. Better culture. Better processes. Something that people believe in and connect with.
‘Abrandastudio’ is such a unique name; talk us through more about it, please. Our audience would also love to know what kind of problem you are solving?
What’s in a name? A lot actually! With so much competition in the market, the consumers are looking for more than a product or a service. They are seeking a connection and a vibe to relate to.
The name of our brand, i.e., ABRANDA STUDIO, captures its essence in a unique and unforgettable way.
Our name simply comes from the word ‘Brand.’ Adding an ‘A’ as a prefix and a suffix, we got a unique and instinctively sound name that matches the vibe of our industry.”
During this COVID-19 crisis, what are the measures you have undertaken to continue your business without disruption?
It’s been quite simple for us. Our business works well virtually. To date, our team works from home. We are happy with the results and flexibility that it offers.
How do you manage to keep going despite the challenges? What drives you?
Knowing the part and parcel of my work. Knowing that this is what I signed up for.
The challenges are inevitable; the best I can do is accept them as they come and focus & celebrate what is in my hands.
Who do you believe has been the biggest source of motivation in your daily life?
My elder brother and the co-founder of Abranda Studio – Mr Varun Gupta. Running a successful construction business, he understands the rewards and challenges of this journey and guides me through it.
What are the business mantras you have embraced as you sought to establish your success story?
You need to keep at it.
What are some of the strategies that you believe has helped you grow as a person?
3) Understanding what the people need and offering genuine solutions
4) Constantly analysing & improving our processes and touchpoints
5) Walk the talk. Our touchpoints should create an impact.
What are the lessons you have learned while building your startup?
– Not to take things personally.
– Numerous factors go into closing deals.
– Timing and synergy are among them. So the idea is to keep at it and wait for the right timing and match.
– Adapting to the change is the only way to build a sustainable business. Listen to your client’s changing needs.
– Build a network. Win-win situations are the best.
Given the rapid pace at which the world is changing, what are the leadership traits that are necessary for success?
Empathy, responsibility, & vision
What does your company specialise in?
A brand that loves brands, Abranda Studio is a digital branding agency helping brands capitalise on growth by our specialised strategy-first design, positioning & communication services.
Abranda Studio is all about offering a complete solution to its clients from naming and logo design to communications and style guides that can take your brand to the next level.
At Abranda, our purpose is simple: to build brands that people love.
Please share with us – what has worked well for you so far?
Building a tribe that shares the same vision and values.
You are always positive and motivated, what keeps you going?
My love for my work and the industry. Seeing our work translated into actual touchpoints.
In your opinion what are the keys to success?
Your dedication to growing and self-believe. If you have the will to grow and believe you can achieve whatever you aim to, you’ll gather all the skills and resources that you need to succeed.
What advice would you give students and young professionals who want to have a successful career?
When starting out, have your priorities straight. Choose to learn over money. This will lead you to find who you want to be early on, teach things that’ll prepare you for the long race, and of course, give you immense pleasure & excitement.
BrilliantRead is committed to bringing stories from the startup ecosystem, stories that reshape our perspective, add value to our community and be a constant source of motivation not just for our community but also for the whole ecosystem of entrepreneurs and aspiring individuals.
Note: If you have a similar story to share with our audience and would like to be featured on our online magazine, then please write to us at [email protected], we will review your story and extend an invitation to feature if it is worth publishing.
