Marguerite Gervin Thrive Story

Meet Marguerite Gervin

Interior Designer and Owner of PMB Property Remodeling from Atlanta, GA .

Tell us a little about yourself – where are you from and who and what is important in your life?

My name is Marguerite Gervin (formerly Marguerite Bazard) and I was born in Nassau Bahamas to a Bahamian Mother, Patricia Bazard and a Haitian Father, Luicito Bazard. I have 4 siblings and we were all birthed into a very artistic family. My childhood is rich in Culture, Music, Dance, Drama, and Visual Arts. I came to the United States at 17 years old to attend College to study Management. My family is most important in my life. Currently, I’m a divorced mother of 4 amazing children, so they are my focus.

We all have previous chapters in our stories – Tell me about your working life/business experiences before now?

My first real job after College was as a Musical Editor at Warner Brothers Publications in Florida. I was also a full-time Minister of Music at a large church in Florida. Although music was always a part of my career, I also had a desire and talent for Interior Decorating. I started decorating my apartments in college and other would want me to decorate their spaces. Once I graduated, I was able to take on more serious jobs part time and started my first business under the name, Interiors by Marjani.

Please provide a snapshot of your business

Currently, I remodel Commercial and Residential spaces. I do a wide variety of services including Kitchen & Bath remodeling, Basement remodeling and full-scope Interior Design.

Tell me about your purpose, your why, and who you're called to serve

My business was birthed after the death of my mother. Her death was too soon and at a fairly young age which made me realize how precious and short life is. I decided to venture out and go after my dream

What did you find most challenging about getting started/moving in a new direction? Fulfilling?

The most challenging part of getting started is the unknown and lack of financial security. As a divorced mother of 4 young children, it took and still takes an act of Faith and Courage to run a small start up business without a 2nd supportive income.

The most fulfilling is the flexibility to make the money I want to make and to be able to be available to my children whenever necessary.

Have you experienced self-doubt? What causes it to flare up and how do you work through it when it hits?

Absolutely! I experience self-doubt very regularly. I think it’s a part of new business ownership especially as an an Entrepreneur starting from scratch with no capital, investors, or 2nd household income! I work through it first with prayer, rest, keeping a state of calmness, and remembering that this is a part of growing pains. The best is yet to come if I continue working hard to achieve my goals.

Do you feel women in the 40’s and beyond make fabulous entrepreneurs?

Yes, we make great entrepreneurs because of our life experiences. We’ve managed our husbands, children, the household affairs and sometimes the affairs of our older, aging parents. We’ve navigated through difficulty and have developed a particular strength and endurance that entrepreneurship requires. We are resourceful and can survive under the most difficult and stressful circumstances.

What would you say to other women who are standing on the edge of their own Next Chapter, not sure if they can take the leap?

Have an honest conversation with yourself. Among other questions, ask yourself: “Would I regret NOT taking this leap?” If your answer is yes, then go for it. Make sure you do the preparation and research necessary to be successful.

What’s next for you? Share your vision!

I am uncertain about what’s next in the near future. I am simply focused on increasing revenues and building a solid financial foundation for my children and I. My ultimate Dream is to own a large Real Estate portfolio of Multi-unit properties that include Hotels and Vacation properties.

One sentence answers

When I’m facing something new and challenging I…

Think it through and develop a plan and strategy to succeed at it. I get all the information, education, assistance or resources necessary to handle the challenge.

I know my greatest strengths are…

My greatest strengths are connecting with people, communicating, management, being courageous, and having discipline.

One of my favorite books is............

The Bible is my favorite book. It feeds my soul and encourages me when I am weak.

My favorite quote is........................

I have many favorite quotes! However, the one that is my motto for this year is: “Don’t wait for everything to be perfect before you decide to enjoy your life”! That really speaks to me.

Not many people know that I....................

Was a Runway Model and Instructor and would love to do Runway Modeling and Fashion Shows for the Sexy 50s!