Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in furniture but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jared Joubert of Expand Furniture, located in Vancouver, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We specialize in multi-functional transforming furniture that lets you do more with your space. Our customers are of all ages and in homes of all sizes, but most of them are trendy, technology-forward, and savvy.
Tell us about yourself
We got into this business by chance while apartment hunting. My brother and I had returned from a working holiday to our home city of Vancouver. Rent is always high here, much like in other big cities, and we were trying to find a reasonable place with a great location. The places in great locations were all compact, and it was hard to picture furniture working in these spaces. This was when it clicked that we needed to start a business that makes better furniture. We started with Murphy Bed Couch products and shortly after created transforming tables. The motivation comes from our customers, who love to give us new ideas and keep things interesting.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It's not a single accomplishment but more a trickle of regular feedback from happy customers telling us how they love our products or how their spaces are just so much better. Knowing we are doing something cool and helpful feels great.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Running a business can take up a significant amount of time, and many aspects are tiresome. You have to wear many hats and be able to go through the ups and downs.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be prepared to work very hard.
- If you believe in your idea, keep at it.
- Remember the snowball effect, it can start very slow, but with some work and time, it can become big!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://expandfurniture.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ExpandFurniture/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expandfurniture/
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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