BOSS Member Spotlight: Paralee Massie-Armstrong

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Paralee Massie-Armstrong is a Mathematician, HBCU Creativity Partner, and the innovative owner of Cardciety, a unique greeting card company that specializes in creating HBCU greeting cards that can be used for graduation, commencement announcements, and alumni engagement. Paralee’s mission is to harness the power of greeting cards to foster connections in our HBCU communities.

What were some obstacles that you faced in the beginning process of starting your business or career? One of the main obstacles I faced in the beginning was transitioning from a background exclusively in public pensions to entering the print, marketing, and greeting card industries. Being a newcomer in these fields was challenging, as I had to quickly learn the nuances of each area, build new networks, and establish credibility. Overcoming these hurdles required perseverance, continuous learning, and adapting to a steep learning curve.

What inspired you to break into your industry? A vivid dream inspired me to design a card for Florida A&M University, which sparked my interest in the greeting card industry. The dream's creativity and passion motivated me to explore this new field, leading to the founding of Cardciety. This unique experience transformed my career path and fueled my drive to bring joy and connection through beautifully crafted cards.

How do you balance your personal and professional life, or have you found a balance? Balancing my personal and professional life has been a journey, especially challenging in the beginning. I've found that effective time management is crucial, along with learning to take breaks and walk away when necessary. Prioritizing these practices has helped me maintain a healthier work-life balance and sustain my productivity and well-being.

What is an inspirational quote that you live by? An inspirational quote I live by is: “The secret to getting ahead is getting started.” These words remind me that taking the first step, no matter how small, is crucial to making progress and achieving my goals.

Who were influential people or mentors who helped or encouraged you? My grandparents were the most influential people in my life. Although they are now deceased, their wisdom continues to guide me. My grandfather taught me to be grateful and never complain, reminding me that there is always a worst-case scenario. My grandmother instilled in me the belief that each day is a new opportunity to reinvent yourself for the better.

What are your "must-haves" to keep your career or business strong? My must-haves include "me time" for brainstorming and creativity, along with the unwavering love and support from my husband and two kids. These elements keep me grounded and motivated.

What is your definition of a BOSS? A BOSS is someone who earns respect, knows how to take charge, and is committed to a vision.

Please provide us with two words that describe you. Creativity Engineer 

Learn more about Paralee at 

Website: https://cardciety.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/card.ciety

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