Patricia Carroll, owner of Gifts of Excellence in Hamden, Connecticut started her business as a means of raising support for the mission trips she has participated in since 1988. As an ordained minister and missions director of The Jesus Christ Evangelistic Team, Pat has sung, preached and taught while on missions in the Philippines, China, Ghana,Nigeria, Kenya, Hong Kong, Italy, Holland, Romania, France and the USA. Affectionately known to many in the gift basket business as Rev. Pat , her joy for life and sparkling personality is contagious and an inspiration to all who have the privilege of knowing her. Gifts of Excellence has evolved into a successful mix of gift services and unique faith inspired gifts.

What are you passionate about in your work?

The challenge of designing or supplying a gift that will have a positive impact on at least two other people (giver/receiver) while being profitable. I don't want to sound like a mercenary, but it's in the gene pool - we like to turn a profit.

What words of wisdom and encouragement can you pass on to other entrepreneurs?

Well, if wisdom is understood to mean knowing how to apply information to achieve a desired outcome, then I don't know if I qualify to express wisdom. Someone told me to "pick your battles". I think that's good advice. Many times I choose to zip my lip and hold my peace, especially if I sense that what I may say will only fan the flames. I'd much rather channel that energy into making a beautiful gift basket, designing a marketing campaign or getting caught up on paperwork.