Name: Alice Rossiter
Job Title and Description: CEO & Founder of Alice’s Table
College Name/Major: University of Pennsylvania, Bachelors of Arts in Visual Studies and Consumer Psychology & Sotheby’s Institute, Master of Arts in Art Business
Website:www.alicestable.com
Twitter Handle:@Alices_table
Instagram Handle:@alicestable 
What does your current job entail? Is there such a thing as a typical day?
At Alice’s Table, we developed a platform that empowers women to launch their own flexible businesses by hosting flower arranging classes offered across the country. Needless to say, there is no such thing as a typical day. I move from the office, to lunch meetings, to the flower market, to Alice’s Table events, sometimes all in one day. A lot of my time is spent training our Event Execs, providing them with the necessary tools and training to launch and run their own businesses. No matter what my day includes, it’s an exciting time at Alice’s Table as we continue to expand and launch in new cities each week!
What is the best part of your job?
My job is making other women successful; we help women who need flexibility and we get to see them thrive and succeed. No matter if an exec shares the launch of her Instagram account or a sold out event, I am there to celebrate that victory with her. I had a dream a little over two years ago to create a community that fostered entrepreneurship and creativity, and now it’s a reality. Knowing that what I do makes a difference every day, is the best part.
What was your first entry-level job in your field and how did you get it?
In college, I interned at Sperone Westwater Gallery in New York. My mom referred me to the job, but I had to figure out a way to be able to stay in the city two days a week, while also in school in Philadelphia. Eventually, I found a woman I could house sit for during those two days. The experience taught me that you must put all of the pieces together in order to make an opportunity work.
What words of wisdom do you find most valuable?
“Empowered women, empower women.” I see this reign true first hand at Alice’s Table. Our Event Exec’s continue to support and encourage each other. When new Execs join they always comment on how inspirational the community is. We love seeing our Event Exec’s share their tips and tricks, in addition to the roadblocks they sometimes come across. Being an entrepreneur has its challenges but when you’re surrounded by women who are eager to offer their advice and encouragement, it becomes easier to recognize your potential. On tough days I find myself looking to our Event Execs for inspiration.
What is one mistake you made along the way and what did you learn from it?
When I was young I didn’t realize how valuable nurturing your network is. I wish I invested more time into building my connections, learning from them, and utilizing them. As you begin your career, take the time to establish a diverse network. I use mine every week, if not every day.
What has been the most surreal moment of your career thus far?
Seeing all our Event Execs (40 now!) launch their own businesses with us. Recognizing that they trust Alice’s Table to help them further their lives constantly amazes me.
What do you look for when considering hiring someone?
The most fundamental skill I look for is work ethic; someone who is willing to go the extra mile and do the hard work to find the right answer.
What advice would you give to a 20-something with similar aspirations?
Never think you’re too young; I started Alice’s Table when I was 25. Often we’re afraid of uncertainty. Every week I’m thrown curveballs that my team and I have to work through. However, with hard work and dedication you can grow a business. Remain flexible so you can learn the skills you need, and never let the fear of the unknown discourage you.
What's the one thing that's stood out to you the most in a resume?
Student athletes! A candidate's dedication to a team shows their ability to multitask and manage their time, as well as their commitment to an extracurricular beyond the school work at hand.
