Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing and design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Ebone' Kennedy, Creative Director and Owner of EKGraphix, LLC., located in Columbia, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
EKGraphix, LLC is a design agency specializing in Graphic Design, Web Design, Mobile App Development, Logos, Brochures, Billboard Designs, Catalogs, Flyers, Obituaries, Branding, Marketing, and Advertising. My customers are start-up businesses, small businesses, large businesses, corporations, funeral homes, churches, lawyers/attorneys, non-profit organizations, and everyday consumers who decide to start a business or side hustle.
Tell us about yourself
I am the Owner and Creative Director of EKGraphix, LLC. Born and raised in Columbia, SC. I founded EKGraphix, LLC while in college in 2012. I graduated at the top of my class as Salutatorian with a 3.96 GPA in 2014. I did a plethora of pro-bono work just to get brand recognition and attended several networking events passing out flyers and business cards for brand exposure. I contracted with several Fortune 500 Companies adding more experience to my resume. My last place of employment made me realize that life was too short to be unhappy while working 60+ hours a week for a company. Once I incorporated EKGraphix, in 2018 and became, an LLC is when EKGraphix, LLC really took off.
What truly motivates me each day to do what I do is knowing that the gifts and talents GOD blessed me with are helping make a difference in other people's lives and businesses. To bring someone's idea to life and see how thrilled they are is what really motivates me the most. I love what I do, and it is truly my passion, so the fact that I can wake up every day doing what I love to do is truly a blessing, and it motivates me to keep going.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is single-handedly helping over 300+ businesses, consumers, and clients expand their businesses and/or create brand awareness through my designs and talents that GOD Blessed me with.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things about being a business owner is staying motivated on those tough days. Running a business is never easy, but it is definitely worth it if you stay motivated and consistent and never give up.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
My top 3 tips for anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today are:
- Have a game plan. Don't just start a business and not have a plan in place; this will cause you to waste time, money, and resources. Do your due diligence and research first.
- Don't worry if everyone else is doing it. Most people don't start a business because they think their particular niche market is saturated. If it's in your heart to do it, then do it! Figure out a way to stand out from your competitors, and go for it!
- Don't give up. There will be times when you want to throw in the towel and give up on your business but don't; it will get better. Trial and error are one of your best learning experiences when running a business.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ekgraphix.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ekgraphixllc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ekgraphixllc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ekgraphixllc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ebone-kennedy/
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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