We had the good fortune of connecting with Annabelle DeGrazio and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Annabelle, do you have any habits that you feel contribute to your effectiveness?
Being a lawyer has helped me in my entrepreneurial journey. Problem-solving skills are crucial and most likely the reason why I haven’t given up. Issues arise on a daily basis and it is critical for me to continue to find solutions and keep things running smoothly.

What should our readers know about your business?
From litigator to candlemaker, the journey has been unconventional. TAJA was born out of a genuine need: a fully customizable gift, perfect for anyone, for any occasion. When TAJA was born, I was pouring, engraving and packing up each and every candle. Being so close to the process helped me really understand the importance of clean ingredients and amazing customer service. I constantly strive to think about what our customer needs and wants, and how to make thoughtful gifting easy and fulfilling.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I love to start my days at Dr. Smood for a cashew milk latte and Barry’s Bootcamp for a sweat. Soho Beach House is a must-go for a dip in the ocean–have one or two picantes and watch the sunset. I always recommend Mandolin and Makoto for lunch or dinner, and drinks at Astra and the Four Seasons Surfside. If it’s overcast, stroll through the streets of Wynwood (TAJA’s home) or head over to the PAMM to take in the art and view.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
My team deserves the shoutout because they help make the magic happen! I take so much pride in my team because they are all smart, strong women–the embodiment of the TAJA brand.

Website: https://tajacollection.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tajacollection/?hl=en
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/17990244/admin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tajacollection?lang=en
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tajatribe/
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/taja-collection-miami
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3FQC0eO5VlV5mm0D43HWuw

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.