Winter 2025 - 114

What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
One of the most meaningful accomplishments for me
has been creating a flexible, supportive work environment
for the three mothers I employ at Liesel Anne Studios. As
a mother myself, I understand the importance of balancing
work and family, so I've made it a priority to offer non-traditional
schedules and remote work that allow these women to
contribute meaningfully to the business while still being present
for their families. Being able to provide this kind of flexibility
feels incredibly special because it enables them to pursue their
professional passions while also supporting their families.
Knowing that my business not only spreads joy through
art but also supports other mothers in finding balance
between work and family life is something I hold close to
my heart. It's a reflection of the values at the core of Liesel
Anne Studios, and it is immensely rewarding to see these
women thrive both personally and professionally.
Another accomplishment I'm particularly grateful for is
building my business, Liesel Anne Studios, from the ground
up, despite having no formal background in business
or art. The journey has come with its share of ups and
downs - navigating challenges with the economy, team
dynamics, a cross-country move and fluctuating sales. Each
experience has provided valuable lessons, and while it
hasn't always been easy, we've persevered. I'm so grateful
for the opportunity to have developed a brand that reflects
my personal style while staying true to our mission of
spreading joy through whimsical art and hand-painted gifts.
We are always focused on growing intentionally, and
a big part of that is putting ourselves out there more -
making new connections, trying new things and exploring
fresh opportunities. At the same time, we continue to refine
and improve on what we know works well in business.
It's incredibly rewarding to see this vision come to life,
share that joy with people around the world, and sustain a
business that our customers can rely on.
If you had to choose your greatest personal
accomplishment, what would it be?
If I had to choose my greatest personal accomplishment,
it would be becoming a mother. Motherhood has been the
most rewarding and transformative experience of my life.
Every day brings new lessons, challenges and joys, and I'm
constantly learning through the process. It has taught me
patience, resilience and an even deeper sense of empathy.
Being a mother has not only enriched my own life but
also improved my relationships with others. I find that I
approach my friendships and family connections with a
greater understanding and appreciation for the experiences
we all share. Balancing motherhood with being a business
owner and artist has been a significant part of this journey,
and I'm grateful for how it has shaped me both personally
and professionally. Being a mother gives me a deeper
appreciation for the little moments, and it fuels my passion
for creating a life filled with joy and purpose. It's a role that I
cherish and continue to grow in every day.
114 WINTER 2025 GIFT SHOP® PLUS
RENATA BOKALO
Director of Sales, Shoppe
Object/ANDMORE
Tell us about yourself.
I am the sales director and
founding member of Shoppe
Object. I am also a member of the
design, gift and home industry for
over 25 years as a buyer/retailer, showroom director and now
trade show producer. After graduating from Barnard College, I
became an artist rep. In 1999, I founded auto - a pioneering,
tastemaking, industry-disrupting, lifestyle and design store in
the meatpacking district of NYC. In 2010, I started working at
Aesthetic Movement, launching the jewelry and accessories
division before becoming co-sales director. I am New Jersey
born, NYC bred by Ukrainian parents, and currently divide my
LISA ROBERTS
Owner, Rock Paper Scissors
Tell us about yourself.
I'm the owner of Rock Paper
Scissors, where I've turned my
love for stationery, pop culture,
unique gifts and the art of
thoughtful giving into a thriving
business in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Receiving this award is
a wonderful reminder of the creativity, passion and hard
work that go into making a store more than just a place to
shop, but a community of people. When I'm not curating
the perfect gift or coaching a winning softball team, you
can find me managing the daily chaos with a smile (and
probably a notebook in hand).
What professional accomplishments are you most proud of?
Building Rock Paper Scissors into a beloved, successful
and steadily growing brand in Ann Arbor. I've taken
your passion for stationery and gifts and turned it into
a retail destination. Managing a thriving team at Rock
Paper Scissors, fostering creativity and a customer-first
culture while scaling the business and staying true to my
brand vision. Balancing entrepreneurship and leadership,
excelling both as a business owner and as a head varsity
softball coach, where I've instilled discipline and teamwork,
leading to significant success on the field. Creating unique
and memorable customer experiences, such as the Original
Stars Hollow event and Gilmore Girls Trivia Night, adding a
sense of community and fun to my retail space.
If you had to choose your greatest personal
accomplishment, what would it be?
That both of our young daughters value a great pen and a
thank-you note, and enjoy a good episode of Gilmore Girls.
Winter 2025

Table of Contents for the Digital Edition of Winter 2025
