Stephanie Cross is the Co-Founder of SEE IT SIDEWAYS, a boutique marketing agency here in Scottsdale. We admire her strength to leave the corporate world to take a leap of faith and follow her dream to start her own business!
Hometown: Scottsdale, Arizona
First job: Juice Works! In high school I got a job working at a smoothie store. On my third day, I was left alone at the cash register with no training on how to work it. Embarrassingly enough (and thankfully) my mom stopped by and jumped behind the counter to help me out.
Favorite AZ restaurant: Lons at Hermosa Inn – mostly for their amazing patio dining
Person who has impacted your life the most: My children. All three of them have impacted my life in ways that I can’t express into words. They have made me more thankful, more fulfilled and crazier than I ever thought possible.
Your biggest accomplishment in your eyes: I recently left my job at Starwood Hotels & Resorts where I was leading the leisure & content marketing strategy for the Americas to open my own marketing agency. Along with another top strategist from Starwood, we founded SEE IT SIDEWAYS – a boutique marketing agency. Building a brand and opening a business has been a huge accomplishment for me.
The biggest obstacle you have overcome: Leaving Corporate America to pursue my dream of opening a marketing agency came with many obstacles. One day I’ll write a book about all of the corporate craziness that followed this decision. But for now, I would say that building a business isn’t always easy. But if you can find a way to align your passions and talents with opportunity …. well then, the world is your oyster!
Someone who inspires you: Walt Disney. I have always admired his creativity and ability to break the mold.
Favorite quote: “Hustle & heart will set you apart”
Advice to someone pursuing a career path in what you do: If you’re looking to pursue a career in marketing I would recommend learning all you can about consumer buying behavior. Understanding the why behind the reason people make purchases is one of the most important skills a marketer can have.
What makes someone fabulous: Their energy & attitude!
Learn more about Stephanie’s business SEE IT SIDEWAYS at seeitsideways.com.
