Author Name: GlobalSpa
Published Date: 10-Jan-2025
In conversation with Madhavi Advani, Founder, Luxuryco.biz & Luxury Club
As the Founder of Luxuryco.biz & Luxury Club, Madhavi Advani has a vast experience across diverse industries such as fashion, hospitality, and bespoke services which uniquely position a fresh perspective on how luxury and wellness intersect in beauty and self-care. We delve into a conversation to know more about her, her entrepreneurial journey, and her heartfelt advice.
Can you share your personal journey into entrepreneurship? What inspired you to take that leap?
I believe that entrepreneurs are both born and made, often from a young age. From the very beginning, I recognized leadership skills within myself. As a serial entrepreneur, my journey has taken me from running a summer camp and a playschool to organizing events; entrepreneurship truly runs through my veins. I always knew that a 9-to-5 job wasn’t for me, and I believe I would have struggled in that environment.
My career began as an art consultant, where I promoted art and eventually transitioned into real estate. From there, opportunities kept coming my way, whether it was collaborating with celebrity wedding designer Angelo Gairini from Italy or serving as a hospitality consultant for the Taj Ambassador. I’ve had the privilege of working with top brands in fashion, real estate, and jewelry, one after another.
What inspires me the most is the freedom of being my own boss. With flexible hours, I can truly live my passion. I eat, breathe, drink, and sleep luxury. Since my profession aligns perfectly with my passion, I don’t feel like I’m working—even when I’m putting in 8 to 10 hours a day.
What are some of the biggest challenges you faced as a female entrepreneur, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I faced as a female entrepreneur was finding my path—especially at an age when many people believe it’s too late or too difficult to pursue something new. Turning “impossible” into “I’m possible” became my mantra. My unshakable positivity, relentless willpower, and strong drive to succeed helped me overcome doubts and obstacles. I believed deeply in myself and in a higher power, which gave me the strength to keep going. Having that “fire in the belly” and unwavering faith were crucial in transforming challenges into stepping stones toward success.
Balancing personal and professional life can be tough. How do you manage work-life balance, especially as a woman in business?
Balancing work and life as a woman in business is indeed a unique challenge, but I’ve found that effective time management, a reliable support system at home, and a lot of planning make a significant difference. I’m fortunate to have a family that truly supports my goals and understands the demands of my career, which allows me to focus deeply on my work when needed. With their backing, I’m able to shift between personal and professional roles more seamlessly, prioritizing as needed. I feel incredibly blessed by God’s grace to have this balance, enabling me to pursue my passion wholeheartedly without losing sight of what matters most in my personal life.
Who have been your mentors or role models in your entrepreneurial journey, and how have they influenced your path?
I deeply believe that mentors are invaluable assets, guiding us to become the best versions of ourselves. Throughout my entrepreneurial journey, the support of mentors has been transformative. They offer not only expertise but also encouragement that fuels growth and resilience. My biggest mentors have come from various parts of my life—friends, colleagues, family, and the organizations I’ve been privileged to be a part of. Each has contributed in their own way, whether through guidance, practical suggestions, referrals, or the sharing of empowering ideas. They’ve believed in me, encouraged me, and celebrated my successes. This network of mentors has taught me that collaboration and support are as essential to success as hard work and determination. The impact of their guidance, wisdom, and encouragement has truly been the foundation of my growth, helping me navigate challenges and continually push forward.
What are the most significant barriers women face in entrepreneurship today, and how can we work to dismantle them?
The potential of women in entrepreneurship is limitless, yet significant barriers still exist that can hold them back. One of the biggest challenges is the lingering mindset that a woman must choose between being a homemaker and pursuing a career. Society often underestimates a woman’s capability to balance both, assuming that if she is working, her family life might suffer. This kind of bias needs to be dismantled, as it reinforces the outdated belief that only men should focus on work, while women are confined to home responsibilities.
Another obstacle women face is the additional scrutiny—they are often judged more harshly than men in professional environments. Whether in leadership, negotiations, or simply being ambitious, women frequently face questions about their abilities or dedication. It’s vital to foster a cultural shift where women are seen as equals, without judgment or prejudice. By challenging these stereotypes, advocating for policy changes, and encouraging open conversations about gender equality, we can create an environment where women can thrive without compromise. Empowering women to pursue their goals unapologetically is essential for true equality in entrepreneurship.
How would you describe your leadership style, and what qualities do you believe are essential for effective leadership, particularly for women?
I believe that emotional intelligence (EQ) is just as important as technical skills in effective leadership. Building genuine connections, understanding people deeply, and fostering a positive rapport are at the core of my leadership style. I focus on truly understanding the behaviors, aspirations, and motivations of the people I work with, aligning with their dreams and creating a shared vision. Social skills play a crucial role in this approach, enabling me to communicate authentically, inspire trust, and build strong, collaborative teams. For women, I think an innate understanding of human dynamics can be especially powerful in leadership. Navigating challenges with empathy, patience, and resilience allows us to bring out the best in others while adapting to various situations. Effective leadership is about more than just guiding a team toward goals—it’s about creating an environment where people feel valued, motivated, and empowered. In my experience, these qualities not only enhance team performance but also foster a culture of respect and unity that drives lasting success.
What advice would you give to women who are considering starting their own businesses?
My advice to aspiring women entrepreneurs is to believe in yourself wholeheartedly and stay committed to your vision. Trust in your journey, and don’t let doubt or negativity from others deter you. Stay resilient, keep your focus, and remember that challenges are part of the path to growth. With faith, hard work, and determination, you’ll move closer to your goals. Do your best, and trust that the rest will follow. Success isn’t built overnight, and it’s never achieved by those who waver—stay strong, stay driven, and keep pushing forward.
How has your community influenced your entrepreneurial journey, and what role do you believe local networks play in supporting female entrepreneurs?
I believe that where there’s a will, there’s always a way. The community around you can be a powerful support system, and it plays a vital role in shaping your journey, especially as a woman in business. Local networks are often the first step to broader opportunities; they help build connections, trust, and support that can scale as your business grows. Starting small and building strong local connections can open doors to larger, even global, networks—especially now, with the reach social media and the internet provide. With a strong community, what you’re seeking often finds you. Each step in nurturing local ties ultimately contributes to a larger impact, creating opportunities for sustainable growth and greater reach.
What are your future goals for your business, and how do you envision your impact on your industry and community?
My future goals include expanding my business on a global scale and establishing myself as an international luxury consultant. I envision creating a unified community that transcends borders, where cultural exchange and collaboration foster innovation and excellence in the luxury industry. My aim is to leave a positive impact on both my industry and community by promoting sustainable practices and celebrating diverse perspectives.
What legacy do you hope to leave as a female entrepreneur, and what message do you want to impart to future generations of women in business?
I aspire to leave a legacy that nurtures a vibrant community of like-minded entrepreneurs who grow, support, and evolve together through the Luxury Club. My vision is to create a global network where collaboration and encouragement thrive, empowering members to share resources and ideas that elevate our industry. For future generations of women in business, my message is clear: pursue your dreams with unwavering courage and determination. Go and conquer the world; the sky is the limit. Together, we can break barriers and redefine what’s possible for women in the entrepreneurial landscape, paving the way for future leaders to emerge and make their mark.