BRICK, NJ — Lisa Ascolese grew up watching her parents help others as they were just starting out after they came to the United States.
“My mom and dad would say ‘So-and-so just got their papers, they’re going to stay with us for a while,’ ” said Ascolese, a Brick Township resident. Her parents are West Indian and she was born in London before her family relocated to Brooklyn. “Our doors were always open,” she said.
Ascolese has kept that example close throughout her life as she built her career as a Black female inventor, inventing products for everyday use for a wide audience, such as the Bosom Buddy nursing cape and the Bun-Tie hair accessory, which she sold on QVC.
Find out what's happening in Brickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
“In high school I would make things, design different products and people would ask me ‘where did you get that,’ ” Ascolese said in an interview with Patch. The Bun-Tie hair accessory developed out of one of her ideas in high school, and when it got sold on QVC, “that really got me going,” she said.
Soon she built up a number of patents and trademarks, and that’s how she gained access to the people who could help those products reach larger audiences. Once she had access, she wanted to help others break down doors, too.
Find out what's happening in Brickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Ascolese, who has created Inventor’s Spotlight TV to help inventors and new inventions, has written a book about her experiences, offering advice for budding inventors. She also has a website where creators can contact her for consultations about turning their ideas into sellable merchandise, Inventing A to Z.
The book, “The Inventress’s Guide to Inventing The Right Way!: All Or Nothing Now Or Never!” is described on her website as “a comprehensive guide for aspiring inventors and entrepreneurs looking to turn their innovative ideas into profitable products.”
Ascolese will be signing copies of the book on Sunday, Sept. 29, at Barnes & Noble at Brick Plaza, 44 Brick Blvd., from 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
“My book is packed with the strategies and secrets that have driven my success as an inventor and entrepreneur, and I’m thrilled to finally bring it directly to you,” Ascolese wrote on her website about the book. “Whether you’re just starting out or looking to take your ideas to the next level, this guide is your roadmap to making it happen. Join me for an afternoon filled with inspiration, innovation, and the chance to connect with fellow creators.”
Ascolese spent time during the pandemic helping people get their inventions from idea to fruition.
“I take them through every step, step by step, through the entire process,” including the funding, the patents and the process to get something manufactured.
“I’m creating funnels and pathways,” Ascolese said, walking them through the process of getting a small business loan.
“The onus is on them. You have to have the passion and desire,” Ascolese said. “I always provide solutions for people who have the passion.”
“The goal is to see every single person who comes to me succeed,” she said.
It all goes back to the example her parents set, of using their success to help others make their way.
“You become the person who is your foundation,” she said.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
Click Here: newcastle knights shirt