Describe your gig?

I am an actress and a business owner. My employment varies with each movie or gig that I do and between running my jewelry line. I've recently completed filming a movie called "Shoot the Hero" (www.shootthehero.com). In 2002, I invented Fleurings (fleurings.com), earrings and necklaces designed to hold water and live flowers.

How did you get there?

Both of my parents were actors and my mom is an exceptionally successful infomercial mogul, so I guess I learned a lot about marketing and developing products from her. I came up with the idea for Fleurings while I was working part-time as a waitress. My grandmother advised me, that if I wanted to make better tips I should wear a flower in my hair. So, I tried it one day and I nearly doubled my tips! No joke. I loved the way I felt wearing a flower and apparently the customers responded to that too!

What is the best part about your career?

I love acting and so a lot of the time it doesn't even feel like work. I really, really love working with other actors, directors and storytelling artists -- as I call them. I love the stories and the sharing of ideas that happens when you meet other outgoing and creative people on set. Meeting new people on each movie, and getting to travel, that is the best part. Fleurings brand of jewelry promotes inner beauty, because I believe that is what truly makes you successful. Teaching this philosophy to help people is my greatest gift in my life and in my career.

Where do you sell your jewelry and how much has your business grown?

For now, I am launching my business online www.fleurings.com. I plan to create partnerships with bridal companies, florists, specialty retailers and other businesses I think would be a good fit with Fleurings. I have several shops in Hawaii lined up and I know that will be a major selling territory along with other tropical locations like Florida. I plan to sell abroad in places where I think women would love them, France, being such a romantic city, India and Tokyo! I have also given Fleurings to many Hollywood actresses including; Amanda Detmer, Angelina Jolie, Gracie Otto and the Kardashians and it has gotten a tremendous response!

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

For me, I guess you could say the challenge is in choosing the right projects and the right circle of friends! With Fleurings, there were many times that I came to a dead end in the design process, but it's never-ending and that is just beautiful to me. I like the process of creating, refining and building, but managing my time is definitely the most challenging thing for me!

What advice would you give to young women looking to launch their careers?

Don't wait for anyone else's approval. Just take whatever steps you can take, big or small, and go for it! You really do not need permission to succeed, just be prepared to work hard, struggle and be patient, it will all pay off! The harder you work the luckier you get!