Please tell us a little bit about yourself.
I am a former business owner of a fashion firm, Berry Jewelry Company, which I founded and ran for thirty-three years. I sold Berry Jewelry in 2019, and currently manage my commercial real estate. I serve on several boards, including Tatter and the Knickerbocker tennis club, and also participate in a giving circle called All In Brooklyn. My husband, Curtis Cravens and I reside in Park Slope, Brooklyn, as well as in upstate New York. Together we have four grown kids. I am an avid tennis player, a bike rider, and love Pilates. I’ve also been working on a novel for the past few years.
Curtis and I are in our go-go 60’s, so we are in the travel mode, and are currently traveling in Southeast Asia.
What does the AERA family mean to you?
It’s very meaningful to be a part of a group of smart, successful women who want to help Aera succeed. From what I observe, the others in the Aera family are much like me…they believe that vegan fashion is the future, and they want to help Tina bring Aera to a wider group of admirers. It’s also such a pleasure to work with Tina. She’s talented, smart, and ambitious, and has a heart of gold.
What is your favorite shoe from AERA?
My all-time favorite is the Jackie metallic lurex. Every time I wear them, I’m stopped and asked where I bought them. They’re comfortable and stylish, a winning combo.
How would you describe your personal style in three words?
Sporty, Inventive, Simple.
What advice would you give to future women in business?
Do what you enjoy the most and hire people to do the things you’re not good at, or don’t want to do. Don’t try and do it all.
Get good financial advice and/or train your staff well in the finances of the business.
Let go of the little things…and concentrate on the end result of what you want to accomplish.