What it Takes to be an Entrepreneur
By Mari D Dattolo
An entrepreneur is defined as “a person who organizes and operates a business or businesses, taking on greater than normal financial risks in order to do so.” Since nowhere is it defined as “Achieving great financial success.” I believe I can safely say, that is a fairly accurate characterization of myself.
My career certainly didn’t start that way. As a determined young woman, I set my course to land a position in the hospitality industry in the “Big” city. As a travel and tourism student in business school, my internship began in room reservations at the then newly opened Tropicana Casino Hotel. My journey took me steadily up the ladder of success, when I was promoted to supervisor by the age of 22 at Bally’s Park Place. During the years of raising my daughters, this area was the land of endless opportunities. I managed and opened a new motel; spent some exciting years working at our local airport; created marketing opportunities for a signature hotel brand; coordinated events for several high-end restaurants, and ultimately, moved into wedding planning and ceremony officiating.
The course that we charter isn’t always one of our own choosing.
An unexpected diagnosis of Early Onset Parkinson’s Disease in 2011 ensured that long hours and corporate politics would not have a place in my future agenda. The combination of becoming an ‘empty nester’ and a ‘disabled retiree’ at the same time was challenging. Years filled with Girl Scouts, softball, dance lessons and tea parties had morphed into quiet dinners and empty bedrooms. Business suits and matching heels collected dust as they hung lifeless and ignored in my closet.
Reinventing myself this time required a little more ingenuity.
While I managed my new health limitations, I took stock of my abilities, interests, knowledge and experience. The result was my own princess party and event service. ‘Little Angels Princess Events’ would be the culmination of my years of raising daughters, leading a Girl Scout Troop and planning special events. Purchasing costumes and enlisting local talent was my biggest investment. Having those two elements in place, our first engagement in 2012 was sharing the stage alongside Shaquille O’Neal! That followed with our first high-end tea party reception that included a live Cinderella horse and carriage ride.
As the business grew with private parties and public appearances, events grew more elaborate. Soon I was including mini-productions to showcase the many talents of our diverse cast. Props and sets became part of the presentation as we headlined the annual ‘Kid A Baloo’ event for Townsquare Media, town festivals and charity fundraisers. A local tea room brought us in to have our princesses demonstrate proper dining etiquette for children, for which they performed fun, light hearted narratives.
My creative ambitions run deep. I’ve helped launch new businesses, built websites and recently taken on one of my biggest challenges yet! As a member of the Township of Hamilton’s Historical Society, I chaired the committee to bring the annual Ghost Walk to life!
With a window of no more than three weeks, we created a unique storytelling process that will get more elaborate as it grows from year to year. Through historical research, character portrayals and the addition of the White Raven Paranormal Society to our team, Mays Landing will soon be known for our already elaborate community events. I’m proud to announce that most recently, I’ve also joined Shore Local’s team of celebrated staff writers!
And finally, never far from my heart: In the final hours of 2012, the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum was in desperate need of securing a new home as the doors readied for closure at the Shore Mall. With just days to go, I successfully arranged a relocation at the Hamilton Mall, as well as a fundraiser to rouse the media’s attention. As this year marks its 20th year in service to our community’s families, I remain a committed member on the board of directors of this “Family Treasure!” Your support of these two nonprofit museums in Mays Landing is always appreciated!
https://www.facebook.com/jerseyshorechildrensmuseum/
https://www.facebook.com/MaysLandingYesteryear/
Mari isn’t one for too much down time. A diagnosis in 2011 of Parkinson’s Disease redirected her career as a Director of Marketing and Events in Atlantic City to doing her own events for other markets. She is active with the Jersey Shore Children’s Museum and the Township of Hamilton Historical Society.
