by 
Suzanne Mailloux
Owner of Mailloux Business & Technology Law Group, LLC and Patuzis
Suzanne Mailloux is that rare person who gets to explore both her creative and cerebral sides, and does both professionally. She owns not one, but two successful businesses: Mailloux Business & Technology Law Group, LLC where she provides legal solutions for technology businesses, and Patuzis, a children’s handmade clothing and gift retailer. She has had her law firm for eight years and Patuzis for three years. In addition to running her businesses, Suzanne is married with two daughters and two beloved dogs, who are as much a part of their world as the rest of the family. She also loves being outside with the smells of nature and all the beauty the world has to offer, from hiking, kayaking, bike riding, or just lying on the hammock under the trees with her girls.
1. What is the most interesting thing about you or your business?
The interesting part about me is that I operate out of both the left and right part of my brain on a daily basis in running my businesses. I have two very active businesses – a legal practice and a children’s handmade clothing and gift business, using both my analytical and creative sides. These characteristics cross over into every task I do whether drafting legal strategies, designing and sewing a garment, or staying organized to manage my clients from all stations in life! It can sometimes be crazy and a bit overwhelming, but I can only hope that this daily exercise will one day keep my brain from atrophying!
2. What makes business ownership worth it to you?
The satisfaction of my clients makes owning a business (or two) the most appealing to me. I get to hear what they want, deliver it exactly how they want it, and know that I wasn’t bending my standards or theirs based on an environment with competing needs. I get to hear firsthand what my client’s expectations are and when I can meet those expectations, the appreciation and satisfaction that I receive back makes a job worth it.
3. Describe your typical day.
My typical day is so varied and too crazy to even begin to describe. But it includes child rearing (I’m a stay at home Mom too), writing (as in emails or drafting contracts), and sewing (or designing) new pieces. But I am a mad multi-tasker! And organized, thankfully. I can be concentrating on one task while another part of my brain is thinking of the next task(s); usually more than one at a time!
4. Would you ever trade running your own business for a 9 to 5 job?
I certainly love being able to exercise all parts of my personality, but I would consider a 9 to 5 job. I’ve had them before and as life evolves and circumstances change, I would welcome the opportunity to seek other fulfilling positions.
5. What advice would you give to someone considering business ownership or entrepreneurism? Are there certain skills or traits they need to be successful?
Be prepared to do each and every task a business needs done! At least in the beginning you’ll need to be comfortable wearing different hats and take on the role of everyone from site manager, accountant, salesperson, production, customer service, marketing, you name it!
6. Why do you think you’re successful? What does success mean to you?
I measure success in return clients. If I’m meeting the needs of my clients and they return for future business, I feel that I have something right. I work hard to truly understand their needs and deliver just what they want. I think people want their needs considered and want value for their money. And this is true for both businesses. I just put myself in their shoes and if I were shopping for this sort of product, what would I want if I needed a lawyer’s advice or to find the just the perfect outfit for my daughter’s special occasion? I spend a lot of time working with my clients and trying to meet their expectations while giving them good value for the money. And when a client comes back to me for more, I feel that I satisfied them and succeed in my business!
