1. Please tell us a little bit about your business/site?

D~LuxeList, “a chic guide to beautiful things,”
(I should probably trademark this) was launched in Fall 2007. I am a fashion fanatic, shopping pro, and beauty product junkie, and this is my list of favorite things. My personal style is casual-chic or laid-back luxe. I’m a jeans and t-shirt girl, but the jeans have to be premium denim and the tees have to be incredibly soft and stylish. I am a handbag addict—Handbag Haven is one of my favorite categories on D~LuxeList. I also love doing the Designer Q&A features. I have access to some great designers and love getting the inside scoop on their work. Other categories include Fashion Finds, Beauty Cabinet, Video Luxe, Eco Luxe, Stylish Essentials, Chic Shoes, and Three Faves. Baby Luxe was born last year when I became a new mom. And Affordable Luxe is one of my latest additions to the mix.

2. How long have you been in business? How did you get your business started?

I became a freelance writer in 2004, because I wanted the freedom to write about what I like and the ability to work with a variety of publications. I also wanted to work from home. Having worked for Woman’s Day magazine, as an editor in the Health and Fitness department, I had already established some good contacts in the publishing world. I also had a nice portfolio of published work already. So the transition to working from home as a freelancer was fairly easy for me. D~LuxeList was launched in 2007, when I moved from San Francisco to L.A. I really wanted something that is purely my style, things that I truly adore.

3. Is your business online, or a physical location or both?

Online

4. What do you enjoy most about running your business/site?

I get to write about all of the things that I like (fashion, beauty products, home décor, eco-friendly items, and now baby gear). I love being among the first to discover new products. My publishing platform allows me to spread the word instantaneously, which is wonderful—instant gratification for all parties!

5. Is there a favorite product or service that you offer?

I take pride in helping new brands and up-and-coming designers get editorial exposure. I love bringing my readers what I deem the best of the best and an inside scoop on the latest and greatest products. Introducing people to new brands and products is really fun. And with the Baby Luxe category there are so many small, family-run companies that deserve recognition.

I’m also really tapped into the sample sale arena, both online and in showrooms and studios in NYC, LA and SF. I’m always looking for great deals on these luxe items and happy to share my finds.

6. Anything else you would like to share about your business? Being a working parent? Etc…

I’ve never been an office type, and working from home allows me to be with my son. I am so thankful that I’m able to be with him almost 24/7 because he’s growing so fast (just like they say) and I’d be heartbroken if I missed any of it…

Read more about Dena Smolek here.