Mara Smith
Mara Smith
Founder and CEO of Inspiro Tequila
Social Media Links:
https://www.instagram.com/inspirotequila
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mara-smith-9109031a1
Website: Inspiro Tequila
Who is Mara Smith?
Mara Smith is a mother of three and a former attorney and corporate strategist. She practiced law at a large law firm in Chicago before transitioning to the corporate strategy team at a Fortune 500 Company. She was put on emergency bedrest while pregnant with her twins, and when they were born prematurely, she made the difficult decision to leave the corporate world. Mara never stopped thinking about what was next. She always envisioned running her own company, and in February 2020, she set out on her journey to create a new tequila brand. Mara started drinking tequila when she was looking for a “better-for-you” adult beverage. She discovered, though, that all of the tequilas she was drinking contained undisclosed additives, like sweeteners, glycerin, and coloring, so she searched for a brand that was additive-free with a look, taste, and messaging that appealed to her and thoughtful female consumers like her. That perfect tequila did not exist, so she decided to create one.
Please briefly summarize your life's journey, highlighting the significant chapters and pivotal moments.
I am a mother of three and a former attorney and corporate strategist. I practiced law at a large law firm in Chicago before transitioning to the corporate strategy team at a Fortune 500 Company. I was put on emergency bedrest while pregnant with my twins and when they were born prematurely, I made the difficult decision to leave the corporate world. I never stopped thinking about what was next. I always envisioned running my own company and in February of 2020 she set out on my journey to create a new tequila brand, Inspiro Tequila.
How many children do you have, and what are their ages?
3 - boy/girl twins - 22 years old and son 12 years old
What lessons did you learn about yourself throughout your journey?
I learned that I honed very significant skills as a stay-at-home mom that I overlooked. These skills are applicable to being a founder. I became a proficient multi-tasker with preemie twins. I learned flexibility as a mother that I never had before since no day ever goes as planned - same with running a startup. I became extremely efficient while coordinating three children's schedules and our home. Efficiency is key when managing all the areas of a new company from marketing to operations and sales.
Share a moment of MOM GUILT, and what you do to manage it?
I was traveling for work, and my son had a school form that had to be signed. My husband was also out of town. My son was staying with my mom and getting very stressed about the parent form that needed to be returned to school the next day. I told him just to have my mom sign my signature. I had to problem-solve, and I felt badly that I wasn't home to do it myself. Generally, whenever I travel, I feel a lot of guilt.
Why do you think it's important for women to share their journeys and inspire other women?
I think it's essential so that we do not feel alone. It's nice to know that no one has mastered everything and that we all face challenges. I also find it helpful to learn from other women who share their journeys.
What is one lesson or piece of advice you would like the community to learn from you?
It's never too late to start something new if you're willing to put in the handwork. Doing the due diligence is essential. There are so many resources out there to learn but you need to dive in and take advantage of them.
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