Interviews

Movers & Shakers Interview With Valeria Arizzi

Published

3 years ago

April 13, 2019

Movers & Shakers Interview With Valeria Arizzi

What exactly does your company do?

I’m a digital entrepreneur, founder of fashion and beauty blog Coco et La vie en rose. I like to think of my blog as a friendly place where all women are invited to find what feels good for them. More than a fashion magazine, Coco et la vie en rose is a pink haven where I share fashion and beauty tips, along with my own style and personal challenges.

I’m also an author for Glamour Italia, where I regularly post beauty-related articles. Lately, I’ve been more and more engaged as an influencer on Instagram (@cocolavieenrose).

I work with a clear mission in mind, that is helping all women feel good about the way they look as a means of empowerment.

This is what I do, in person and online: I encourage women to look good as a way to feeling good.

What were the biggest challenges you have faced and how did you overcome them?

I’ve been living my greatest challenge for the past 7 years. After my mother died of ovarian cancer at 53, I took a DNA test which came back positive for BRCA2 genetic mutation. When you are BRCA2 positive your chances of developing both ovarian and breast cancer are VERY high. I have decided not to bury my head in the sand and do whatever it takes to be there for my daughter and my husband. Which means undergoing prophylactic surgeries besides close monitoring. Now I’m focused on raising awareness about BRCA genetic mutations because knowledge has the power to save lives.

What piece of advice do you wish someone had given you at the start of your career?

Know your worth and don’t let anybody take advantage of you.

Who are your biggest influences and people you admire and why?

My biggest influences are major style icons who had a positive impact on society. Starting from Coco Chanel, who built an empire from scratch tailoring fashion-wear for empowered women. To Audrey Hepburn, who besides being the epitome of true elegance was an active philanthropist. Above all, I’m inspired by women whose names won’t be written on history books nor glossy magazines, but make a difference in people’s lives on a daily basis by setting an example through their hard work, determination, and kindness

None of us are able to achieve success without some help along the way. Is there a particular person who you are grateful towards who helped get you to where you are?

Definitely my husband, who has encouraged me to pursue my dreams no matter what. It’s not to be given for granted that the person you love will endure whatever it takes to see you happy and fulfilled. I’m very lucky and grateful.

What do you see as your greatest success in life?

I am immensely gratified by the feedback I get from women I’ve helped feel self-confident and empowered. Watching my own daughter grow up to be a compassionate boss lady – well that’s going to be my greatest success ever.