Cathy Fragale
SRQ BUSINESS SPOTLIGHT
Sarasota Children’s Book Author
I met Cathy last year at one of the Chamber of Commerce events. Little did I know that outside of her professional career in marketing, she has many more talents and passions, and being a Sarasota Children’s Book Author is one of them!
When she messaged me about the need for a professional headshot to be featured in her new book, I was thrilled and excited for her and I immediately got her first book for my daughter who loves books!
In fact, Cathy released 2 children’s books in 2020, one in March and the second one in December! Writing books for children was her dream and I’m so happy for her that she pursued her dream and started this beautifully illustrated series of books!
What inspired you to start your own business?
I always thought writing a book would be really inspiring. The idea for the book came to me one day, and I figured why not go for it? I think what inspired me was to not live with any regrets. It’s not something you hear about often an everyday person writing a book. That’s the beauty of starting a business or writing a book you can do anything you want to if you put your mind to it, and that was a huge inspiration.
What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?
“The Seven Habits of Highly Affected People” by Stephen Covey inspired my first book, “Henry and Shirley”. The habit of “Seeking First to Understand, then be Understood” really stood out to me, so I figured why not make it accessible for kids to understand, but make it fun through my animals?
My 2nd book, “Shirley the Pony who Always Won” was inspired by sportsmanship, and spreading that message in a fun and unique way. I had seen books and movies about the “underdog” winning, but none about How to handle losing, when you have always come out on top.
What sets me apart from everyone else, is I’m just a normal person who decided one day it would be fun, refreshing, and exciting to write a children’s book. I think anyone who decides to take a leap of faith and do what they want, sets them apart from everyone else.
What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?
My background is in Marketing, and I also worked in the fitness industry for several years. The skills developed came from my Marketing degree education, but most importantly, getting involved in the author and book world. Making connections, asking questions, and learning from others who have written books before me. I’ve also been able to share what I have learned with others, and that has been very rewarding!
What has been your biggest success to date?
My biggest success to date was seeing the hardcopy of “Henry and Shirley.” The success was within. I had finally achieved the goal I was going for, and I had the hard copy, the proof, in my hands.
What has been your biggest challenge?
My biggest challenge, was overcoming the feeling of “What is this doesn’t work?.” You just have to dig deep, and go for it, as challenging as that may be!
Which small businesses are you inspired by?
I am inspired by small businesses that are backed behind a dream. The fact that someone took a leap of faith and went for it, that really inspires me. I also love seeing small businesses where the owner is the “face” of the studio, supporting their dream.
If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?
I would have published the book sooner! I held on to the manuscript for quite some time before having it published. I would have gone for it sooner, and not held back, as the end result as been so rewarding!
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start her own creative business?
Begin with the end in mind. Think about the end result first, that will pave the way for the beginning and where to start. When someone tells you how much they enjoy your book/product/business, and that it impacted their life in someway, it is the best feeling in the world.
What’s something about you (a fun fact) that not many people know?
I actually lost almost all of my hearing at a very young age, and had multiple surgeries to have it remedied.
What do you love the most about Sarasota?
I love how Sarasota has a small town feel, but still have access to beaches, local restaurants and while being a close drive to bigger cities.
If I had an extra $100,000, I would….
Be responsible and pay off my mortgage 🙂 Then (granted it’s safe to travel again!) take a vacation to Italy, where my family is from.
Charities and non-profits you support
I love supporting local charities. Feeding Empty Little Tummies was started by another Chamber member, and I love seeing charities start and impact close to home. I also support animal rescues, since my dog Henry was a rescue.
Favorite restaurants in town
Dry Dock (Longboat Key), and Station 400 for brunch!
How do you define success?
When you feel fulfilled for youself through your work, and not just following along with what others expect of you. No outside factors that can you fulfillment you feel inside when you acheive something.
What’s the coolest thing you’re working on right now?
My third book 🙂 😉 Also working on a line of stuffed animals that look like Henry and Shirley!
One thing is certain… My Sophie can’t wait to add another book to her collection and hear more stories about Shirley and Henry, Cathy!
Wishing you a lot of success in 2021 and beyond!
You can purchase Cathy’s books directly from her and have an opportunity to meet her and get signed copies. She offers bulk prices and delivery options too. And if you mention this post, she will surprise you with a discount 🙂
Email: HenryAndShirleyBook@gmail.com
Books are also available in local bookstores, Barnes & Noble, and on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1645436551/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_hsch_vapi_taft_p1_i1
About SRQ Business Spotlight
Tell us YOUR small business success story for a chance to be featured in the SRQ business spotlight!
In this project, Sylwia Ok Photography highlights small businesses in the SRQ area. If you are a business owner and would like to have your business featured here on the blog and on social media, contact me through this form, and let’s talk about your own Business Spotlight!
All photography for this project is done solely by Sylwia Ok and all images are copyrighted.
