PPB November 2018

What was it like presenting toPresident Trump andhis staff? This moment was one of the most special moments of my career thus far. We went to New York and initially did a Shark Tank -style presentation to the campaign team. Later, the team called President Trump and had him look at everything. I knew the numbers, the website and the presentation, but I also knew that my company would be able to get the job done. He asked me how fast I could get the program started. I simply asked him to give me one week and I would have a full-blown fulfillment center stocked with merchandise ready to go. Shortly after, we set up the fulfillment center and established a partnership that continues to this day. What did you learn fromthe experience? I learned that believing in yourself and your company can lead to opportunities you would not think possible. Did you receive any feedback—positive or negative—from your community forworking on Trump’s campaign? Our hometown of Lafayette, Louisiana, is known for its warm and friendly culture and incredible hospitality. We are blessed to be accepted by our community and are thankful to be one of the many partners that contribute to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to America. Since opening your business in2007, what has been your biggest lesson? One of the biggest lessons I have learned is that people are the most important factor in making a business successful. Appropriately managing people is crucial to building a cohesive team that can accomplish both personal goals and the goals of our clients. What do you think sets your business apart? We are a small business with local roots comprised of a team of large-scale thinkers who are not afraid of hard work. Our teamknows the ins and outs of promotional products and apparel, and will always guide our clients to purchasing the right products to advance their brand andmeet the needs of their customers. You’re involved in many charities and nonprofits. Is there a cause that’s especially important to you? My best friend and I started a nonprofit raising money for St. Jude Hospital called Sky High. Supporting children with cancer has always had a special place in my heart, and bringing joy to both the patients and their families is something I will cherish forever. What advice orwords of wisdomwould you sharewithother women thinking about launching a company? Go with your gut and stay confident in your abilities. Do youhave amantra you live by? I have two mantras that I like to live by. The first: Live life like there is no tomorrow. Also, this quote from Richard Branson has always stuck out to me: “If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes and then learn how to do it later.” Audrey Sellers is a Dallas, Texas-area writer and former associate editor for PPB. “Go with your gut and stay confident in your abilities.” —Christl Mahfouz | NOVEMBER 2018 | 83 CONNECT Christl Mahfouz and her team offer a one- stop-shop for political campaign management, marketing strategies and fulfillment services.