Meenakshi Sharma is founded her own company last year. DateFyx is a go to resource for couples to assist them with planning a great night out together.
What’s your story?
I am a hospitality designer with 15 years professional experience, having designed resorts and hotels in some of the most exotic locations in the world. After 10 years of marriage, demanding jobs, two kids, trying to maintain a social life and so many modern-era distractions, my husband and I realized that scheduling in that exclusive ‘couple time’ for better communication, is critical in keeping the marriage strong. Hearing our friends, colleagues and extended family, I became a big advocate of Date Nights, to strengthen the very foundation of a family unit.
In September 2016, on the lookout for a new challenge, I finally mustered up the courage to quit my job and founded my own company, advocating that every couple needs a ‘DateFyx.’ DateFyx is envisioned as a go-to resource for couples to plan their date nights, special occasions, activities in Singapore, relationship advice and fun tips.
What excites you most about your industry?
The most exciting part about designing resorts or now, running DateFyx, is that it’s about people, adding to their experiences and helping them build memories together. It’s also exciting to scout for new experiences, curate them and introduce people to their perfect date night plan.
What’s your connection to Asia?
I was born and brought up in India. I was in the US for a couples of years before moving to Singapore 11 years ago, for fresh opportunities that Asia offered at the time. And, ever since, I’ve felt very much at home in Singapore, travelling across Asia for both, leisure and business and enjoying the rich heritage it offers.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
It has to be Singapore, especially for first-time entrepreneurs like myself. The ease of setting up a business and the amazing ecosystem for startups. Also, the client base is a good mix of local people and expats.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
Instead of looking for that perfect job, use your passion to build your own business.
Who inspires you?
Anyone who has taken the plunge and started out on their own, however big or small the idea is, inspires me.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
I attended a talk recently that spoke about the world’s biggest problems today and how the world’s smartest minds that you see flashed all over the media, are not working towards solving those problems. But instead, they are creating products or services that are attractive, may drive the economy, but create a whole new set of problems for mankind. Smartphones are a good example of that.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
If I was to go back to my early 20s, I would invest more time in understanding how to run a business, with a more holistic approach, rather than focus on mastering specific job-related skills.
How do you unwind?
Most of the time, I unwind by hearing how everyone’s day in my family was. At this stage, my kids have a lot to share and I love listening to them.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
I absolutely love Ubud, Bali because of it’s easy access from Singapore, it’s amazing hospitality, the beautiful paddy fields, the hills, river, food and everything that leaves you feeling so pampered and re-energized.
Everyone in business should read this book:
The Lean Startup by Eric Ries.
Shameless plug for your business:
For busy couples, Date Nights can be the perfect time to pick a new skill together, build on a hobby, explore the city, try a new cuisine, catch a musical or just about any enriching experience. DateFyx is a one-of-its-kind platform that lists date night worthy events and venues around town, curates interesting and out-of-the-box experiences, especially for couples. The experiences can be booked from the platform itself or you could request a bespoke experience planned around your specific needs. As a designer and an avid traveller, I have always appreciated nuances that make experiences special and memorable. At DateFyx, we add an extra layer of personalization and special care to each experience.
How can people connect with you?
Through Facebook, Instagram or email at [email protected]
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This interview was part of the Callum Connect’s column found on The Asian Entrepreneur:
Callum Laing invests and buys small businesses in a range of industries around Asia. He has previously started, built and sold half a dozen businesses and is the founder & owner of Fitness-Buffet a company delivering employee wellness solutions in 12 countries. He is a Director of, amongst others, Key Person of Influence. A 40 week training program for business owners and executives.
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