Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Coleen Caraway, Owner of Danu's Wardrobe, located in Englewood, CO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Danu's Wardrobe is a speakeasy-style used bookstore and event space located in a basement of a local coffee shop. Most of our customers are book lovers and fellow nerds. We host various different events, including murder mystery dinners, game nights, Vision Board Quest Events, Open Mic Night, Kid Nights, and more!
Tell us about yourself
I'm originally from Texas and moved to Colorado in 2018 for a job offer that didn't work out with a start-up company. I fell in love with Colorado anyways and decided to stay. I have always wanted to own a bookstore, and I was tired of talking about it and decided to go for it. My grandmother was a librarian and part of the Historical Society in her community. She brought me a love of books at an early age that carried me into adulthood. I'm motivated by the fact that I'm creating a unique and comfortable space for everyone who walks through our doors.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Starting up Danu's Wardrobe is my biggest accomplishment so far. I could not have done it without an amazing group of volunteers who have put in the work to help me keep this one-man show afloat. I love bringing people who would never meet together and helping facilitate friendships.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
I would say the hardest thing that comes with being a business owner is realizing that everything is dependent on you at the end of the day, and you have to take care of yourself first. If you don't take care of your mental and physical health first, your business will eventually be affected.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, block out time for yourself. Your business is important, but you won't have your business if you don't take care of yourself first.
Second, set obtainable goals monthly and yearly. Review them weekly and check them off; if you don't accomplish a goal, set it for the next month.
Third: Set contingency plans. Not everything is going to go to plan, and that's ok. Have a couple of backup plans and keep moving if it doesn't work out. This is an opportunity to learn!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.danuc.net/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100089982183456
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danuwardrobe/
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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