Entrenuity's Most Visible Student Business Start Ups
Smile Entertainment
Seventeen year old Ariell Buckingham is the CEO of Smile Entertainment, which began in September 2007. Smile Entertainment is the finest party coordinators in Chicago; specializing in children birthday parties. From set-up to clean-up to games and prizes, Smile Entertainment makes sure that everyone will walk away with a smile. During 2008 alone Smile Entertainment hosted a total of 35 parties, 28 children parties, 3 baby showers, and 4 holiday parties; making about $6,000.00 in total revenue.
Ariell choose to start her own business because of the lack of creativity and attractions that are used for
children birthday parties. As
the oldest of four siblings and many cousins, she always attended
birthday parties in the same place
every year. That was the problem; the attractions were not organized,
there was no privacy between parties and no personalization.
Many of the places were too crowded, there was poor customer service, and the adults would take over the games at the parties.
These problems brought Ariell to the idea of something new and innovative for children’s parties, Smile
Entertainment. With just a phone call and a decision between their three packages, your party is already planned.
Packages Offered
Ariell believes that there is much help for someone who wants to start their own business. The world is opening up to Entrepreneurship. There are programs, camps, and classes especially for teens she explains, such as Entrenuity, Chicago Urban League, IIEE, NFTE, CEC, and many more. Ariell has had the pleasure to participate in all of these opportunities and more. Most of the options are classes, but there is also a one week camp in July that takes place at Wheaton College. Entrenuity is a powerful camp full of information that would take some people years to learn yet at the camp you receive it in one week. They combine the teachings of entrepreneurs and Christ.
The only disadvantage of the Entrenuity camp is that you can only participate once. In July 2008, I had the best experience of my life. I had the opportunity to meet CEO's of assorted companies, new friends from all over, and had teachers and mentors that were willing to work with me and other students for twenty four hours if needed; which to me is the best thing that a person can ask for. You are able to network with so many new people and develop friendly relationships that impact your life. Entrenuity has improved my life and business and I’m positive that everyone leaves with a different perspective on life.
To learn more about Smile Entertainment or to book a party contact Ariell Buckingham at leavethepartytous@gmail.com .
Tiffany Egler and her mom began a business venture together called Jean!us (jeanius). Jean!us uses eco-friendly products to create bags and accessories for men and women. Our designs are never duplicated. We'll turn your jeans into Jean!us. After taking the Entrenuity Summer Business Camp in 2005 Tiffany wanted to use her newfound skills. Her cousin gave her the idea of creating purses out of jeans. She played with decorations and designs. With her cousins blessing Jean!us was born. Today Jean!us is a registered business creating and selling a fair amount of bags and accessories including purses for women and girls of all ages, messenger bags and backpacks, bracelets, headbands, and even a doggy bag. Their greatest entrepreneurial accomplishment Our greatest entrepreneurial accomplishment has been getting our product into customers' hands. A lesson learned along the way Don't accept more orders than you can fill. Recommendations to other young entrepreneurs Pursue your dreams, set goals, and have fun reaching them whenever you can. Contact Information Phone: (630) 631-1992 or (630) 809-5360 Email Address: jeaniuses@gmail.com Web Site: Look us up on Facebook (Tiffany Egler)
Jean!us