In this episode of the Peaking Podcast, Bryan Mikolaitis interviews Nora Shiels, founder of Bridal Bliss and co-founder of Rock Paper Coin. Nora shares her journey from growing up in a family of Iraqi immigrants to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the wedding industry. She discusses the challenges of starting a software company without a technical background, the importance of building a positive company culture, and the lessons learned from her experiences as a business owner. Nora also touches on the balance between work and family life, the funding journey for her business, and the potential incorporation of AI tools in the future.

Takeaways

Winning a business plan competition led to the creation of Bridal Bliss.

Rock Paper Coin was developed to solve inefficiencies in wedding planning software.

The go-to-market strategy focused on wedding planners as key influencers. Mistakes are valuable learning experiences in entrepreneurship.

Balancing work and family is a priority for Nora.

A positive company culture is essential for team morale.

Funding has evolved from bootstrapping to seeking VC investments.

AI tools are being considered for future enhancements of Rock Paper Coin. Imposter syndrome is a common struggle, but self-belief is crucial.

Sound Bites “We were considered industry experts by then.”

“I still own the wedding planning company.”

“We have about 50% planners on the platform.”

“You have to give yourself some grace.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nora Shiels and Her Journey

02:37 The Birth of Rock Paper Coin

11:32 Developing the MVP and Go-to-Market Strategy

18:29 Lessons Learned as a Business Owner

20:32 Balancing Work and Family Life

23:02 Building a Positive Company Culture

25:21 Funding Journey and Future Plans

28:35 Incorporating AI and Tools for Efficiency

31:41 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome and Staying Positive