Shay Mitchell's Journey From Actress to Successful Businesswoman

Shay Mitchell, best known for her role in Pretty Little Liars, has transitioned from the Hollywood spotlight to the boardroom. Over the past few years, she’s built a successful portfolio of businesses, proving her entrepreneurial spirit and knack for identifying lucrative markets.

Amore & Vita Productions: Mitchell launched this production company in 2017.

BÉIS travel wear: Her popular travel brand caters to those looking for stylish and functional luggage.

Onda canned sparkling tequila: This venture taps into Mitchell’s love of drinking and her sharp eye for emerging market trends.

The Genesis of BÉIS: Finding a Niche in the Travel Market

Mitchell’s decision to create BÉIS was born from a personal need for high-quality, affordable luggage. She saw a gap in the market for products that were both stylish and functional without breaking the bank. Mitchell’s journey to creating BÉIS wasn’t easy, and she admits that she learned a great deal along the way.

Key Takeaways: Mitchell emphasized the importance of understanding the intricacies of the travel industry, from product sourcing to factory visits, as well as the need for a strong team.

Challenges: She described the lengthy process of sample production and the high costs associated with sourcing and creating a physical product.

BÉIS Mission: Mitchell wanted BÉIS to be an affordable luxury brand, providing quality travel accessories that wouldn’t burden travelers’ budgets.

The Art of Naming: A Story of Gut Instinct

Mitchell’s experience with her own name, Shay, played a crucial role in how she approached naming BÉIS. She wanted a memorable, intriguing name that would stand out in a crowded market.

Inspiration: Mitchell drew inspiration from her auditioning days, when she’d use her unique name to her advantage, garnering extra attention and memorable moments. This led to the creation of the brand name, BÉIS.

Choosing a Name: Mitchell advises entrepreneurs to trust their gut instinct when choosing a name. It’s important to choose a name that resonates with you personally and that you feel confident representing for years to come.

The BÉIS Wash: Engaging Consumers Through Unique Experiences

Mitchell’s BÉIS Wash pop-up event in Los Angeles is a prime example of her innovative approach to customer engagement and branding. It was a fun and effective way to showcase a new product line and connect with customers on a personal level.

Motivation: Mitchell was inspired by social media trends and customer feedback regarding stains and dirt on lighter-colored luggage. The BÉIS Wash was a playful way to address this concern and highlight the new Clean Slate Collection.

Creative Execution: The event featured a car wash-themed experience complete with bubbles, a Scrub Daddy partnership, and a custom BÉIS logo. It was a unique way to create buzz around the brand and provide a valuable service to customers.

Collaborating with Talent: A Strategic Approach to Business Growth

For entrepreneurs looking to partner with talent, Mitchell offers valuable advice on how to approach these collaborations.

Defining Roles: Mitchell advises entrepreneurs to clearly define their goals for the partnership. Are they simply looking for brand visibility, or do they seek expertise and input from the celebrity?

Authenticity: Mitchell emphasizes the importance of authenticity in these collaborations. She believes in being passionate about the product or company and being actively involved in every step of the process.

Building Lasting Relationships: Mitchell’s experience shows the power of establishing meaningful connections with talent, especially those who share a genuine passion for the brand.

Shay Mitchell's Insights on Building a Successful Business

Mitchell’s journey to entrepreneurship has taught her a great deal about herself and the business world. She shares her insights on the importance of patience, solitude, and finding mentors who inspire.

Patience: Mitchell believes that patience is key to success in the business world. It requires time and dedication to cultivate a thriving business.

Time Alone: Mitchell emphasizes the importance of solitude in her daily routine. She finds that time for reflection helps her stay grounded and make sound business decisions.