Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Danielle Flaherty, Owner of Dani By Design, located in Youngstown, OH, USA.

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

My online shop is full of customized hand-stamped keychains, bracelets, and a few various necklaces. I make various items from whimsical to wedding, anniversary, and even memorial pieces. My bracelets are mostly inspirational, life can be stressful, so I try to find small phrases to keep people motivated and happy! I try to keep something in mind for everyone, and the option for personalizing your own piece is always open!

Tell us about yourself

After becoming a stay-at-home mom, I wanted to do something that was for me. I needed a hobby, so I began reading about various crafts. I fell upon hand stamping and what started as a $40 hobby turned into my full-time business. I'll never be more grateful. Turning back the clock and thinking about how it all started is definitely a motivational factor. Knowing how hard it was to start and grow and remembering all of the late nights I've put in while maintaining two small kids keeps me going.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I've recently hit my 10,000 sales mark. It's definitely a huge accomplishment to know my gifts are putting smiles on that many faces! Being able to make a special gift for so many people is something I never thought I'd be doing.

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

Definitely family/work life. My kids are still small, and working from home for myself is one of the more challenging tasks because there are no set times for my work. I have to manage everything that's going on at home and work in between.

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

  1. Getting started is the hardest part-putting in the long hours will be worth it later!
  2. Don't let anyone get to you, do what you love!
  3. Always stand behind yourself and your product.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Supporting small businesses means the world to little families like mine! I love my business; I can only hope it continues to grow. I cannot appreciate and thank my customers enough!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://etsy.me/3QS9zj6
Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/DanibyDesignCo/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danibydesignco/

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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