Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Antoinette Belson, founder of Happy Your Space, located in Norwalk, CT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
With a Master's degree in Architecture and over ten years of professional design experience in both residential and hospitality, I have helped an array of clients, from individuals, couples, and young families, to maximize the function of their space. I started Happy Your Space with the intention of creating spaces that work for your current lifestyle and can adapt to life's changes. My design solutions are completely customized to your individual needs and style to create a space that is uniquely yours. Whether you're feeling cramped in your house, overwhelmed by the design process, or going through a life transition, I am here to help design solutions and create your happy home.
Tell us about yourself
I am a professional space planner, problem solver, mother, and lover of all things hygge. Trained as an architect and is an Interior Design Coach. I started Happy Your Space during the pandemic when so many of my friends and family were having to adjust their homes to serve as their classrooms, gym, and offices, too. Today, I work with clients nationwide to achieve their design goals and create their dream spaces. I specialize in inspiring design action for creating functional spaces that are comfortable, usable, and happy!
Going through a life-changing transition, bringing home a new baby, moving in with a loved one, or moving out on your own can be overwhelming. I am here to help guide and support you through the design process to create your "happy space" that is functional and fun, cozy and comfortable, and uniquely yours! I have done it all when it comes to finding design solutions for my clients. From teaching you space planning solutions to design project management, I'll work with you to make your space a happy one!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment was making my dream a reality. For me, my ambition grew out of my motherhood. I have always had a 5-year plan. I have always done the steps that I needed to do, but I never aspired to do anything but follow that linear path. Having my son–meeting my son, knowing my son, and knowing that I would have someone that I would be responsible for inspired me to create a whole different path for myself.
Before Jamie, I had no desire to rock the boat. I was the breadwinner. I was the secure one. I was the one with health insurance. I was "steady as she goes." My son triggered my ambition to do something that sparked joy in my heart. Without him, I would not have been motivated to pursue anything else. He was this tangible person who screamed that you couldn't go back to how things were. I needed to change things up and do something that would make me happy, ultimately making him happy. If I did not course-correct, I would have gone back to over hour-long commuting each way. That would have meant very few waking hours spent with my son on a daily basis. I would not even interact with him for more than half an hour a day. That was not acceptable to me. My son inspired me to trailblaze this new path and make a better life for myself and our family. I took a leap of faith, and I am so glad I did.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Being an entrepreneur is hard. You have to be willing and able to do it ALL. I love what I do, especially the creating and engaging side (Interacting with people, designing, and creating amazing spaces), but the business side, the marketing, the administration, and the accounting side take a special kind of person. When you just start and don't have the means to hire others to help, and you have to take on everything yourself. You have to go beyond your comfort zone.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The best advice I can give you is to ask for help. Get advice from other entrepreneurs. Find a mentor, find support and create systems to make your life easier. Work smarter, not harder. Store up a little financial cushion for a safety net before ripping off the cord. Make a business plan with milestone goals and strive for them. Love what you do, and go for it.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.happyyourspace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/happyyourspace
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/happyyourspace/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/happy-your-space/
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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