Meet Cheree Beck | Small Business Owner & Student

We had the good fortune of connecting with Cheree Beck and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Cheree, as a parent, what have you done for you children that you feel has had the most significant impact?
I have always tried to teach my children to be independent and be the unique and wonderful people they are. Anyone who has met me knows that i am not a conventional parent- i am the Mom who has a lot of tattoos and bold colored hair who cheers them on louder than other parents dare to.
I believe that owning my businesses has shown them that their dreams are more achievable than they think. Don’t misunderstand, they have seen me having to work really hard to get there, too. I know that I have missed some of the things they wanted me to be part of, but the end result is being able to do the things that make me happiest and make money doing what I love.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My latest venture has been creating different decorative pieces made from the skeletons of cholla cactus. Some of them are combined with silk flowers, artificial succulents and led lights. I make fairy/gnome gardens, tables, lamps and decor.
This is my third business that I’ve started now, and every one has had its own set of challenges. Most of them are creating pieces that i am confident will sell. Since I am a perfectionist by nature, I am my own worst critic! Another is trying to dedicate time to other areas in my life while building the business. I get overly excited and want to put all of my time and effort into it, but there has to be work/ life balance.
I recently got my Associates degree in Business administration, and having the knowledge I’ve gained from my courses will make things easier to successfully own and operate this and other future ventures.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would plan to go to the Grand Canyon (of course!), visit Goldfield Ghost town, and go fishing at Canyon or Saguaro Lake. If they’re up for it, a short camping trip to Mesquite recreation area that sits right on the river is a great place to relax, and just outside of Payson is a good place to camp when the valley is hot and miserable.
Sight seeing and the art in Sedona is a must, too. Places to eat would be any of the little Mexican restaurants on Broadway Road in Mesa, or Simpletons Bar and Grill- their food is great, and they have karaoke several nights a week.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would like to give a HUGE thank you to the wonderful people at Seed Spot. I have taken part in several programs through their organization, and the feedback and advice I received had been priceless. Participating in their programs gives me a little push in the right direction.
Id also like to give a shout out to Russell Beck- my ex husband. He has been my best friend and such a big source of support through my successes and failures.
My children, Gabe and Cyndi have always rolled with the punches and have been my motivation always. I love them so much!