Danielle Vataj: From Personal Need to Community Impact with Belles Books and Gifts

The inspiring story of Danielle Vataj's entry into the world of entrepreneurship is one of tenacity, familial support, and a strong commitment to giving back. Encouraged by her brother, Danielle founded Belles Books and Gifts, a business born out of a need to cover her dog's medical bills. This venture quickly grew into something much larger, reflecting Danielle's compassionate spirit and her desire to make a positive impact on the world.

What sets Belles Books and Gifts apart is its dedication to supporting numerous charities and community initiatives. Danielle's business contributes to a range of causes, including food banks, cancer research, animal rescue, homeless teens, and helping children obtain school lunches. Her commitment to these causes not only speaks to her entrepreneurial spirit but also to her deep sense of social responsibility.

We are excited to delve deeper into Danielle Vataj’s inspiring story by talking with her directly. Through our conversation, we aim to explore the challenges she faced, the lessons she learned, and her vision for the future.

1. We would love to hear about the origins of Belles Books and Gifts. What events or experiences led you to create this business, and what was your initial inspiration? How did you take the first steps in establishing it?

My creation of Belles Books and Gifts began after I had been working in retail for over a decade. At one point, I was unable to work, but I had an animal to care for—Atticus, who was also getting older and needed a lot of help. Since I couldn't work, I decided to try selling online, with the goal of making enough money to cover Atticus' medicine. My brother actually encouraged me to start it, believing I’d do well. Although I wasn’t so sure at first, I entered into it with the mindset of at least supplementing some income. I started by selling things I was willing to part with, and before long, it began to gain traction.

2. It’s touching to hear that your brother was a significant influence. Could you tell us more about his encouragement and support? How did his involvement shape your decision to embark on this entrepreneurial journey?

My brother was a major influence in my decision to start my business. He was very supportive and inspiring. Being a business owner himself, I knew he would have valuable insights. He also helped me for many years in shipping items to customers, and I'm very grateful for that.

3. Starting a business can be daunting, especially under pressing circumstances. What were some of the immediate challenges you faced when you decided to start Belles Books and Gifts to help cover your dog's medical expenses? How did you overcome them?

I think the hardest part was not knowing what to expect or being able to get it out for others to know about it. It was pretty difficult but I just pushed through because I was determined to help my best friend. Ebay also gave me some tips and after COVID unfortunately took place it grew significantly.

4. Looking back on the evolution of your business, how has Belles Books and Gifts grown and transformed since its beginning? What were some key milestones and pivotal moments along the way?

It's actually pretty odd to me to look back over the last 8 years and see how far it's come and grown when I first started it, it was mostly just a few Disney items and only shipped to different U.S states. Now it's got a little bit of everything for everyone and ships all over the world. Seeing it printed in places Like NYC Journal and Forbes is astounding to me since I never even fathomed that could ever happen but I'm beyond grateful. That's all due to having so many amazing people who help to support and help it thrive.

5. Belles Books and Gifts supports a variety of charitable causes. How do you decide which organizations and initiatives to support? What criteria or personal connections guide your choices?

The charities I chose to help have always been close to my heart for a personal reason in some way. I love helping people and animals in need and have always wanted to do things that give back. When it gave me a bigger opportunity to do that I definitely jumped at the chance. I also plan to find as many places as I can to help with the store's growth and any future success. Whether that's helping children, in poverty, illness, hunger, or survivors of abuse, I constantly aim to reach as many people as I can.