We had the good fortune of connecting with Debora Sylvester and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Debora, what role has risk played in your life or career?
In every situation and decision, there is always a plan B. You can take it to the positive end and further your path to success or the negative end, which we all know where that leads. I always figure out a plan B that is beneficial, so taking risk is an act of trust and belief in good. This is what makes my entrepreneurial spirit bring my vision to life- taking risks with perseverance, knowing that I will succeed even when things get thrown off course , I always have a plan B.
Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My whole concept of my business, is to create a brand that brings zen and zeal, hence leading to the establishment of Teallow LLC with the tagline, Time To Teallow.
What sets my business apart is embracing simplicity, where just two will do. Bringing my nature isle of the Caribbean Dominica experience with teas growing up, and incorporate that into Teallow makes me having a unique edge.
Teallow is the marrying of two colors representing the Caribbean Sea and the beautiful sun, teal and yellow. Teal is a revitalizing and rejuvenating color that also represents open communication and clarity of thought. Yellow is a color associated with the sun. It symbolizes optimism, energy, joy, happiness, and friendship.
I have had experience of starting a new business before, but this, by far, I know, has greater potential for success and I love to say that Teallow is my baby and I am excited about watching her grow and become a household name.
How I got to be where I am business-wise is the same thing that is propelling me- God, purposeful passion, perseverance and the strong belief that I can, I must and I will succeed.
I can say, easy is not in my story. Oh no, it has been a rollercoaster but I kept on persevering, because I want success to help, to impact change for others.
There are many lessons I’ve learnt from my mistakes, and from others as well. But I have come to value my mistakes because they were stones that made me trip and fall, but became stones that gave me steps to climb on.
I would love for others to learn about me and my brand is that you have to take care of yourself, find a way to reach a place of zen and zeal, so you can each spread the love and peace that is needed.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I am all about wellness and any activity that boosts my health and well-being, I will get into it, but still it’s tough working out at the gym-lol. An amazing new fav health spot for me to grab a bite is at Tassili Raw Reality Cafe. The food is amazing! Also, an awesome healthy smoothie bar is Wadada- but it’s got so much more with herbs, spices and vegan meals- so delicious. I love love brunch with tea. I haven’t nailed down my favorite spot, but French style is my go to. Going to the movies – though it’s not as popular, I do enjoy that. A better way to enjoy a really good movie with friends. I do have an obsession with art, so visiting art galleries, one of my favorite is the Museum of Fine Arts and I do enjoy visiting the High Museum as well. This is a great way to spend your afternoon.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
God above, certainly my everything. I am deeply grateful to God for bringing me through each moment of my life. The Lord kept me, fortified me with strength and filled me with immense love and peace in times of calamity. God has been and remains the undeniable force of power, protection and support for me; and through God I was able to manifest amazing things like Teallow.
I am also deeply grateful to my mom- May she continue to rest in peace- for her undeniable tender love, wise guidance and immense support of me. Every memory of her brings me so much joy and propels me to aim higher and believe that I can and I will succeed.
I am also thankful that throughout my life and up until this moment, I have been blessed through each life journey to have people in my life that have played a role in motivating me along the way. I am thankful to my family, and a special shoutout to my nephew Jonathan for being so caring and supportive. I would also like to send a shoutout to Jordan Eugene Lane, photographer and friend, for his significant support of Teallow.
Website: www.teallow.us
Instagram: @teallow.LLC
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/profile/in/debora-w-182a8b38
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Teallow.LLC?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: Personal Instagram @deborawordssmiles
Image Credits
Images credit goes to Jordan Eugene Lane – Still Photographer & Owner of Touch Turn to Gold Photography- https://touchturngoldphotography.com/ * Photos of logo and products by Debora Leonette Sylvester.