Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Dayna Wagner, Creator and Designer of Wagner Dinnerware, located in LaSalle, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Handcrafted dinnerware for everyday living. Customers range from new couples getting dinnerware to start their life together, cottage families, and regular families who enjoy time at the table. Women who feel they finally have a chance to have custom dinnerware they have always wanted!
Tell us about yourself
I went to school for mechanical engineering and worked in the field for six years. When I met my now husband, we started to talk about our dreams. Mine was to own my own business and do something creative. So I took a bunch of different courses. As soon as I touched clay, I knew that I wanted to pursue it. I took basic classes and some more in-depth workshops, but I am mostly self-taught thru lots and lots of time in the studio.
I am motivated to create dinnerware for a few reasons. I love the challenge of making multiple pieces that create a body of work, and I love the creativity that comes with working with my clients to see their vision for the dinnerware come to life. I love knowing people are enjoying using the work every day, and hopefully, it brings joy to their daily life.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Taking what is basically mud and raw ingredients and creating them into something people like. Getting a business started and keeping it going while having lots of other obligations.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Not getting bogged down with concern about where the future work will come from. Just enjoy where I am and trust that the work will be good and people will always want to invest in it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Expect to work hard and a lot of hours.
- Don’t expect others to understand your goals.
- Don’t be afraid to be the weirdo who walks your own path.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.wagnerdinnerware.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WagnerDinnerware
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wagnerdinnerware/
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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