From sketching fashion designs to building thriving brands, Tejaswini Siddham has carved a unique path that blends creativity, strategy, and heart. As the co-founder of Catapult, a creative and influencer marketing agency, and Plated Moments, an experiential dining brand, she’s redefining what it means to be a modern woman entrepreneur.
In this candid conversation with HerInfluence, Tejaswini opens up about her journey from design to entrepreneurship, the challenges of leadership, and the joy of creating meaningful experiences that connect people.
Q: What inspired your journey from fashion design to entrepreneurship?
Tejaswini: My journey began with a passion for design and creativity. Fashion design taught me how to blend aesthetics with functionality, but I always had a strong entrepreneurial spark pushing me to do more — to create something of my own. Over time, that passion evolved beyond design into building brands and experiences that truly connect with people. Entrepreneurship felt like the natural extension of my creative journey.
Q: How did your background in marketing influence your business ventures?
Tejaswini: Marketing gave me the ability to understand people — their emotions, their choices, and what drives them. It taught me that every brand has a story, and how you tell it makes all the difference. This insight has shaped both my ventures, allowing me to build brands that don’t just sell, but connect deeply with audiences on a human level.
Q: What motivated you to co-found Catapult?
Tejaswini: Catapult was born from a desire to merge creativity with strategy and purpose. I wanted to create a space that supports brands in the food, beverage, and lifestyle sectors by helping them grow authentically. The name says it all — we wanted to “catapult” businesses to their next big leap, not just through marketing, but by fostering a community that believes in meaningful storytelling.
Q: How did the idea for Plated Moments come to life?
Tejaswini: Plated Moments began as a passion project — a reflection of my love for food, hosting, and creating beautiful experiences. I’ve always believed food has a way of bringing people together. I wanted to go beyond catering and create something that celebrates connection — through experiences that are beautifully plated, thoughtfully curated, and emotionally resonant.
Q: As a woman entrepreneur, what challenges have you faced along the way?
Tejaswini: Being a woman in business does come with its share of challenges — from being underestimated to having to constantly prove your credibility. But those very challenges have made me stronger and more grounded. They’ve taught me resilience, and the importance of believing in your voice even when others doubt it. Every setback has shaped me into a better leader.
Q: You balance creativity with business strategy so seamlessly. How do you manage that?
Tejaswini: For me, creativity and strategy are inseparable. Creativity breathes life into ideas, but strategy ensures they thrive. Whether it’s curating a brand campaign or designing a dining experience, I always make sure that every creative decision serves a clear purpose. It’s that balance that keeps both sides of the brain — and the business — in harmony.
Q: What has been your biggest learning from this journey?
Tejaswini: That growth happens outside your comfort zone. Every challenge, every risk, every sleepless night teaches you something new. I’ve learned that success isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being consistent, adaptable, and true to your purpose, even when things get tough.
Q: Who has been your biggest source of inspiration and support?
Tejaswini: Without a doubt, my mother. She’s my role model and my biggest strength. As a single parent, she worked tirelessly to build a life for us and taught me what resilience truly means. Watching her handle life’s challenges with grace and determination has been the greatest lesson. Everything I do — every risk I take — is inspired by her strength and the example she’s set.
Q: What advice would you give to aspiring women entrepreneurs?
Tejaswini: Believe in yourself, even when no one else does. Start small, dream big, and surround yourself with people who uplift you. Don’t be afraid of failure — every setback is just another step toward success. The world needs more women who lead with courage, compassion, and creativity.
Q: What’s next for you and your ventures?
Tejaswini: The journey is only getting started! For Catapult, our goal is to expand deeper into lifestyle and influencer marketing — working with brands that align with our creative ethos. With Plated Moments, we’re scaling up — from chef tables to supper clubs and curated dining experiences. Personally, I’m excited to keep evolving, exploring new ideas, and creating spaces where creativity and entrepreneurship meet in harmony.
✨ HerInfluence Note:
From design sketches to business blueprints, Tejaswini Siddham embodies what it means to lead with vision, empathy, and drive. Her journey reminds us that entrepreneurship isn’t just about building brands — it’s about building meaning. And Tejaswini is doing exactly that, one creative idea at a time.
