Roberto De Angelo already has two businesses under his belt. He started Elevate Magazine in May 2001 and his latest venture, SociallySexyDeals.com, in August 2011. Here’s how he got there and what his plans are for the future…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
SociallySexyDeals.com is the world’s first deals site dedicated to cosmetic enhancement and beauty. It posts weekly discounted offers made by board-certified plastic surgeons, cosmetic dentists, cosmetic dermatologists and other beauty-related service providers.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
There was a dramatic shift in the mindset of the consumer after the financial meltdown in 2008. I was working on building a 5-star cosmetic enhancement resort in Toronto at the time and experienced many difficulties – people were over-leveraged and concerned about their futures, and for the first time even people with money didn’t want to show it off. Being frivolous would soon be a thing of the past. I decided to re-align my interests in the cosmetic enhancement field to reflect this new sensibility.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part is creating opportunities for people interested in getting cosmetic procedures who otherwise could not afford them. I believe that the current prices of many services are excessive and I love helping to change that.
The challenging part is introducing a new model into the marketplace that works for the consumer, but also meets the many regulations that restrict doctors’ abilities to market their services.
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
Many doctors and beauty service providers see the value in attracting new clients and retaining current clients; I believe my model will evolve and become a global phenomenon. This will dramatically change the market from what it is today.
What does success look like to you?
To work with medical professionals who see the good in offering value for their services, so that more people can benefit from these procedures.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Launching Elevate Magazine and then selling it three years later. Part of an entrepreneur’s success is creating value and an asset that someone is willing to buy.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Being an entrepreneur can be a constant battle. The bigger the threat you are, the more that those affected will come at you. At the end of the day if your vision benefits a significant number of people you will attract the right team to make it succeed.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Doctors Without Borders is important to us. We also plan on supporting a charity that helps those that need corrective surgery, but can’t afford it.
What is Notable to you?
I think it’s a community of achievers that recognize those who take on the status quo and turn it upside down so that we’re always evolving.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
I have a Blackberry and an iPhone, but I prefer the iPhone!
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
I have a billion ideas running through my mind all of the time and I’m constantly trying to work out solutions to problems. I travel to Miami and LA to explore new ideas (and avoid snow!) and most importantly I surround myself with people who are a lot smarter than I am.