What is more important, talent or drive?
Drive. Definitely drive - without that it really does not matter how much talent you have. Someone with incredible drive can become talented because they are driven to be so.

On a scale of one to ten, how significant a role does luck play when it comes to success?
Three. I think there is a little luck involved: meeting the right people, being at the right place at the right time, but not a huge amount. I think you must find your own luck and when something thrown at you is beyond your control and seemingly unlucky, you must find a way around the problem and be a great adapter.

Which is more critical, the idea or the execution?
The execution is the hard part and what turns the idea into a business. An idea without proper implementation and execution is either not going to turn into reality or will fail.

Is it better to be passionate or objective?
Objective. That's a hard one because I think you need both. With passion, a lot can be achieved. Without passion, I am not sure my business would have started and I think that with creativity there has to be passion. However, I think you always have to be objective to see clearly the way your business needs to go and be sure that emotion does not cloud your objectivity when making decisions.

What is most and least important? Please rank your priorities.

1. Drive
   Organisational skills
   Relationship skills
   Talent
   Confidence

What one trait has helped you most in business?
I think for me it is drive. I don't need to be driven or motivated by anyone. If I want to do something I just get on, figure it out, devote myself to it and do it fast.

What is the one trait that has hindered you most in business?
Probably lack of confidence. I have a habit of always thinking something is not good enough or I will not be good enough and that can inhibit and hold me back.

What is the hardest lesson you've learned and how did you learn it?
Not saying no to some opportunities. Be prepared to let go of opportunities as much as you are prepared to take them. Sometimes, although you may lose the opportunity presented at that moment, it may be better that you do. For instance, it is really hard to say no to a prestigious retailer when they want to take on your brand. We certainly found this very hard to do, but with hindsight we should have said no to some until we had the right infrastructure to support them rather than messing up with a retailer or a market.

What is the one piece of advice you would offer other women in business?
Know your own strengths and weaknesses and team up with others to fill in the gaps from the start - you will get there faster. Make sure you have financial and marketing expertise on board. And remember the six Ps - Proper Planning Prevents Piss Poor Performance - so true with everything you do.

What are the biggest mistakes you see women making in business?
I think the biggest mistake anyone can make is to not understand the numbers. You may have a competent accountant or Chief Financial Officer but for them to be effective, they need to work with you very closely. The business owner must bear the responsibility for their work so it is imperative to have a full understanding.