Women Who Reign: Jaya Iyer

“You can do anything as long as you have the passion, the drive, the focus, and the support.” — Sabrina Bryan

Tell us about yourself!
I was born in India, grew up as a military kid all over the country, and moved to the US sixteen years ago to pursue further education. I did my Masters and PhD in Apparel Merchandising and have been in love with the clothing business all my life! I love to travel and have been to 47 of the 50 states in the US. Hope to get to the remaining three sometime soon!

I met my husband while I was studying, got married, moved to the DC area to teach at a university. I was working in the apparel industry as a buyer, but then decided to take time off to be with my kids. That’s when my daughter asked me to get her an astronaut t-shirt that I could not find in any girls section. Hence, Svaha was born. A company that started off as a kids apparel company, has now expanded into kids, women’s, men’s clothing and accessories company.

What # would define your life journey?
#alifefullofloveandhappiness

Favorite website / app:
I love the Sky Guide app. We as a family love star gazing and my kids love to be able to spot different planets and stars.

Someone who inspires you and knowledge they have imparted:
My husband always inspires me. If not for him, I would not have the courage to take the risks I take in my life and business. He is someone I can go to with any question and he will have an answer or will figure out a way to get me an answer.

Song that makes you want to dance:
Music by Madonna

Challenge you’ve faced and how you overcame it:
When I started my company, we were struggling with managing the website. We did have a friend helping us out, but it was hard not knowing how to manage it. We were scared to invest in something like Shopify as it meant a monthly expense. But, as always, encouraged by my husband, we did it. It took out business to another level and we were so glad we made the decision.

Ideal Job:
I already have it! There is not a day when I feel like I am doing a job! It is amazing to run my own company and work on my own schedule, be there for my kids when they need me. What more could I want. The only thing I would like to see happen is to be able to provide jobs to more people.

What knowledge would you impart to women in order for them to REIGN their lives?
Follow your passion. That’s the road that leads to happiness. You need to find something that excites you and work hard to get it. Don’t let failure dishearten you. Learn from your failures and success will eventually come to you. All the best!

Originally published at reigningit.wordpress.com on September 17, 2017.