"Have perseverance and just start" with Stephanie Andujar
/
Starring in theatre performances from 'The Wiz,' 'The Crucible,' 'The Good Woman of Setzuan,' to Television and Film including: 'Blue Bloods,' 'Law & Order: SVU', the Academy Award-winning film 'Precious', 'Marjorie Prime', ...While embarking on her acting career, Stephanie Andujar also obtained her Business Degree at Pace University in New York City. In 2016, Stephanie created Andujar Productions with her family and has been creating content around the clock. From web series to music videos, Stephanie is a force to be reckoned with. https://stephanieandujar.com/
Can you tell our readers about your background?
StephA: Yeah, I was born and raised in New York City and been performing forever (lol). I’ve been doing it since I was 12 years old and got discovered at a young age. I then went to Talent Unlimited High School for Drama. After that, I attended PACE University to get my bachelor’s degree in Business.
What inspired you to start your business?
StephA: Instead of waiting for another opportunity, I decided to create my own. I’d been performing for so long and said why not make a production company. In 2016 I formed Andujar Productions with my family and made a web series, music videos, and so much more. It felt good to finally have something of my own and put out what my fans would like too.
Where is your business based?
StephA: It’s primarily based in NYC but my work reaches a lot of people all over the world. Thank God! (lol).
How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?
StephA: I took a leap of faith and started filming with my cell phone. I knew I wanted to do a web series and worked with what I had. Then from there I kept learning different programs and applied them to my work. Andujar Productions then became a trademark and that was a process too. From there I just started promoting it via social media to my fans and the demand became great.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?
StephA: Just creating and sharing the work via social media. With all these platforms, you’re able to reach so many people. I also make sure to share on our websites, in case someone doesn’t have a social media channel. Word of mouth is also that old school way of raising awareness for your business that I recommend.
What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?
StephA: Trying to stay positive with all the work you do. Sometimes I get so caught up in producing content that I don’t see the big picture. Believing in myself reminds me that what I’m doing is important and it’s making people happy whether I know it or not. All the setbacks can lead to becoming stronger and keep putting out what I love.
How do you stay focused?
StephA: I just remember everything I’ve been through and what it took to get here. I’ve always been disciplined in what I do and know that it takes commitment to see the results you want. It’s also something I love to do so staying focused is not too difficult.
How do you differentiate your business from the competition?
StephA: I stay in my own lane, you know? I create what works for me and Andujar Productions. Everyone is different in their way and what works for them is for them. As long as I’m happy with what I’m doing for my business, then we’re good. By getting this far, I know I’m already winning no matter what.
What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?
StephA: I’ve been blessed with many media outlets, such as this one, who’ve been kind to spread the word about my Production Company and all the work I’ve done. Also, again, social media has been great to share everything we’re creating too. There is power in the hashtags (lol).
What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?
StephA: Have perseverance and just start. It won’t be easy but it’ll be worth it because of all the work you’ll do to succeed. Believe in yourself too.
What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?
StephA: I love the Simpsons Tapped out App (lol) it’s fun because there’s this whole town you can control and create. I also loved reading “The Book of Unholy Mischief.” It takes place in Venice in the late 1400s and it’s just a really great book on life’s wonder…food.
What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?
StephA: Staying on top of business trends. Just by reading the trades and updating myself with things that are changing within the industry. Reading good old articles will always be a great resource to access, which helps you manage your business.
Who is your business role model? Why?
StephA: I’ve always admired Selena Quintanilla and loved that she was a businesswoman too. She showed that you can be a performer but you can also run your own business too. If she can do it, I can do it too, you know. I’ve always had this business side in me and it’s cool to know she was another Latina who did it too.
How do you balance work and life?
StephA: I dance, bike, do kickboxing, and a lot to stay active. Getting those endorphins going always helps (lol). I also spend time with my Chihuahua Teeka and my turtle. They make me feel good when life gets hectic but I remember why I’m doing what I do and it’s for them too (lol).
What’s your favorite way to decompress?
StephA: I love watching a good movie or Hell’s Kitchen (lol).
What do you have planned for the next six months?
StephA: I have a lot of projects set up. I’m currently working on the rest of the Episodes for my web series StephA:One Woman Show and I have another song that will be coming out soon too. So many other things are lined up these coming months and I hope to keep growing spiritually as well.
How can our readers connect with you?
StephA: Always happy to connect (lol) via Instagram @Stephanie_Andujar_
Twitter @StephAndujar & StephanieAndujar.com