Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emilie Bolduc, Founder of Crochetmilie, located in Laval, QC, Canada.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

Crochetmilie encompasses everything related to crochet. In addition to offering unique handmade creations, courses are offered to learn this needlecraft, as well as a wide variety of modern crochet patterns. Whether you crochet or not, there's something for everyone who loves coziness.

Tell us about yourself

My name is Emilie Bolduc, a crochet designer from Quebec, Canada. When I was eight years old, my mother showed me how to crochet, and it became a real passion for me. In my twenties, I discovered that crochet could be modern and tasteful. My childhood dream of having my own little crochet company became a reality!

In 2015, I started my ETSY shop, and since that time, my brand has grown stronger. I pinch myself every day because I can't believe I can do what I love for a living!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The fact that my business has gone from a simple hobby to my main occupation will always surprise me! In recent years, I have been featured in several Canadian and Quebec magazines and on Etsy's social media. I sent many items to every continent except Antarctica ;) I always feel privileged when people choose me to make their crocheted items.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

I find the hardest part of being a solopreneur is to be everywhere at once. Try to be constant on social networks, master photography and editing, try to figure out the "SEO" of the different sales platforms, and above all, have more ideas than hours in my day!

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. My top advice would be to do what you LOVE with your business. Every part of it. You didn't quit your 9 to 5 job to do something else you'll hate!! For example, if you don't like social media, there are a lot of tools to not waste your time and do the minimum about them.
  2. Always be nice to customers and don't give them bad motives. Even if they ask you strange things or if you doubt their insatisfaction, it always pays off for you and your business to make their satisfaction your priority. I couldn't tell you how many times these situations turned out to my advantage in the end!
  3. Take it one step at a time. You can't master everything in days. It can take months or years, but every time you are comfortable with an aspect of your business, you will be able to add more tasks.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I would love to share my passion for crochet with you! This hobby is so relaxing and makes you proud to create with your own hands. It would be a privilege for me to teach you this needlecraft. It's easy, you'll see! My course contains ten lessons and nine quick projects that will make great gifts for yourself or to give to those you love. Feel free to visit my website for more information!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://crochetmilie.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/crochetmilie/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/crochetmilie/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilie-bolduc-687463244/


If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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