Tracy Paul is a gorgeous Lady, successful businesswoman, a dual citizen and creator of Tracy Paul & Company, known in Los Angeles, New York and internationally. She works with prestigious names like Dupont, Nike, Uniqlo, Louis Vuitton and others. But also a wife and mother to two wonderful sons. Our meeting with Tracy took place during the Cannes Film Festival at the mythical Hotel Martinez.
What is the Cannes Film Festival for you? What emotions does it evoke?
The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most inspiring events in the world. From the moment you step on the plane until departure, we are flooded with creative ideas, inspiration, and glamour. It’s where we converge to share ideas and build projects further. The energy at Cannes is exciting and very motivating.
Is your work filled with events, meetings, and traveling? It must be very exciting to live such an ambiance.
My work encompasses many things: meetings, endless travel, and events. And, yes, it is a very exciting business that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. It requires constant analysis, management, and creativity. I start my day at 5 a.m. no matter where I am. The most strategic work takes place in the earliest hours and at day’s end. The middle of the day is focused on proactive and reactive client service and interactions.
Tell us about your company and its purpose.
The cornerstone of my company is to provide full-service public relations and external communications. Our services include public relations, publicity, product placement, partnerships, all external communications, and full-scale event production. To date, we also provide expert consulting, operations, logistics, distribution, and creative services—covering all aspects. Additionally, I am often called upon by companies worldwide to serve as an interim CEO or acting US president to bridge commerce between countries. For instance, I am currently negotiating with a public company to assist them in expanding their operations to the United States.
Is the structure of working with clients different in America and France? If so, in what ways?
One of the biggest factors is the cultural translation required in this type of work. From the onset, it is crucial to have a deep understanding of both countries. With this foundation, all actions are approached analytically and strategically. Logistics, budgets, and operations; there are many varied and differing factors.
What is the most memorable project in your career?
Choosing a single most memorable project is challenging. I have been in business for decades. One of the brands I started with early on in my career was Longchamp which I launched in the United States. Working with the Cassegrain family for ten years was monumental. As one of my first marked French clients, they were wonderful and provided me with an education that is distinct, valuable, and unforgettable.
What do you think are the key qualities a businesswoman needs to be successful in business?
To be a successful businesswoman, several key qualities are essential: determination, intelligence, creativity, vision, and a relentless work ethic.
How do you combine your career and personal life?
I awaken most days at 5 a.m., and that provides me with the time I require for a healthy personal and business life. I manage my time well while enjoying my work and family. My sons have traveled and learned with me throughout my career and I feel very grateful for that.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Regarding my interests and hobbies, I am deeply fascinated by people, a passion influenced by my mother, a psychoanalyst, and my father, a businessperson. I love understanding people and the nuances of what makes them happy. I enjoy documentaries and films, and I spent much of my life in the luxury and fashion atmosphere of NYC with my mother, frequently visiting fashion forums and art galleries. These are some of my very best memories.
I’m also an avid shopper, not for buying goods, but for covering retail markets. From watches to fashion to cars, I know what’s current and what’s in store. I recently visited the Rolls Royce showroom in Monaco and loved it. Catherine Bloom is my top pick for fashion and styling in the States; she’s based in Los Angeles, where I reside most of the time.
I am an avid hiker and athlete, incorporating sports of all kinds into my daily routine since childhood. During Summers when I was growing up, I went to a beautiful camp called ONEKA in the States where Princess Stephanie was my mentor in all sports and activities. She was a tremendous athlete and someone to look up to; another wonderful French influence in my life.
In my free time, I focus on being present with my sons and nurturing their interests. I love sharing and talking with them about many topics.
Would you like to share with us about your future projects?
When asked about future projects, I prefer to keep them quiet until they are fully developed and ready to launch. I can share that I just launched the Gnomi app for news where journalists are paid to write about whatever they want. As a graduate of Boston University’s Broadcast Journalism program, I think it is an important platform. I am thrilled about the work I am currently engaged in, especially with an exciting influencer event coming up this Fall at the Ritz in Paris for a very special fragrance brand. There are too many brand projects to list. We also have several TV shows and films in the works that I am producing. They are being shot around the world and mean a great deal to me.
My work brings me immense joy. I am grateful for it and the wonderful people I have the privilege to work with today.
Event by Tracy Paul & Company, Inc.
Field & Cove Productions LLC
@tracypaulandco
www.tracypaul.com
