(1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

My journey to become an entrepreneur came out of a need as a new mother. I searched the area for sisters who understood what I was going through. Every group I found lacked diversity and faith-based support. I realized there was a void and I decided to fill that gap by becoming an entrepreneur. Growing Up Gorgeous was the answer to my own prayers for sisterhood and friendship.

(2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

I chose a service-based industry because I understood the ongoing need for people to have a place where they belong.

(3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

Being trained by LAEDA helped me to understand the fundamentals for a legitimate business. Too often creative people don't find success because they are unable to operate behind the scenes. LAEDA also gave me the opportunity to connect with other entrepreneurs who had experiences that I could learn from. I can remember pitching to my classmates and feeling so supported and grounded in the potential of my business.

(4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

Having a start-up business is never easy, as I have experienced challenges since launching in 2016. When you don't have an established network, it is difficult to get your foot in the door for many opportunities. You have to continue to serve as many people as you can with your expertise. That grind will eventually pay off as more people learn of your superpower.

(5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

Today, our membership community reaches over 11,000 women through our network. We provide encouragement and resources to help women flourish. I am proud to work closely with a core group of moms who are truly growing together and learning from one another. We meet for monthly events that are sponsored by our brand partners here in South Jersey. Our doors are open to new members as we continue to grow. We build genuine relationships with other mothers through local chapters and online. Our South Jersey Moms chapter meets for monthly events. Our members also receive exclusive tools and resources to empower them. Through our time together, we strive to sharpen one another. Ultimately, our growth as women will be a reflection of the beauty of Christ.

(6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

My advice for entrepreneurs is to always go back to your basics. When things get uncomfortable or if you feel overwhelmed, the answer is often in the fundamentals of your business plan and content from early on. Go back to it!

Congratulations to Christina Acosta-Martinez for completing EDTP and recommitting to her journey on the path of entrepreneurship. For more information, contact Christina Acosta-Martinez via email at christina@growingupgorgeous.com, via website at www.growingupgorgeous.com, via Facebook at www.facebook.com/growingupgorgeousmoms, and via Instagram at www.instagram.com/growingupgorgeousmoms.

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Winter Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and one year of technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.