Pout Magazine | Page 26

From accidental entrepreneur to C.U.T.E. THIS OCTOBER ISSUE WILL BE A LIMITED EDITION INTRODUCING NEW BEGINNINGS BEAUTIES WHO MEAN BUSINESS Lynnette Brooks considers herself an accidental entrepreneur. Three years ago, Brooks was at a crossroads in her life. She was deciding whether to return to work after taking off to raise her daughter or return to school. JANUARY 2016 While researching schools and programs, Brooks learned about a free course for people who are interested in owning their own businesses. “This was a pilot program funded by the New York Department of Labor,” she says. “I applied for the program, completed an interview, and was accepted.” She attended class two days a week and worked part-time. The courses Brooks completed gave her the tools she needed to start her business, Carry Me Cute NYC. Brooks learned how to complete a business plan, manage the financial aspects of her business, and create a website to sell her products. “I started out making custom phone and tablet cases, so I wanted the company name to associate with carrying a cute phone case,” she explains. Today, those products include custom gifts, ladies and children’s apparel, bows, bowties, diaper cakes and more. POUT Magazine C.U.T.E. is a distinct part of the company name. “The acronym stands for Creative, Unique, Trendy, Empowering, says Brooks. When customers buy from Carry Me Cute NYC, they are purchasing custom products made by Brooks. Her goal as a businesswoman is to be an inspiration to her young daughter, Brooklynn, and other young women. “I want to help young women learn to be entrepreneurs,” says Brooks. “I have a voice and a platform where I hope people are inspired by my work,” she adds. “I also want my daughter to see me as an excellent example and be proud. All of my hard work is dedicated to her.” @poutmag WE ARE IN NEED OF WRITERS PLEASE CONTACT IF INTERESTED To view and order products from Carry Me Cute NYC, visit carrymecutenyc.com. You can also find Carry Me Cute NYC on Facebook and Twitter. To read Brooks’ business success story, visit http://home.nyc .gov/html/sbs/nycbiz/html/ success_stories/success_story_01.shtml. POUTMAG.INFO @poutmagazine 26 poutmag.info