Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Karl Finley, Owner of Legacy Furniture And Mattress, located in Gallatin, TN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I work in retail. I own 3 furniture and mattress retail locations in middle Tennessee. Our customers are really anyone needing to furnish their home. New home buyers are common, especially in the areas that we are in, and just anyone looking to upgrade or replace their current furniture.
Tell us about yourself
I started in the furniture industry when I was young. I worked at a national chain and moved up to take over as the president of sales. We sold the company, and when the investors came in, they got away from taking care of the customers, and I didn't agree with some of the things we were doing. I stuck around for a while but then decided that if I truly wanted to be happy, I needed to go out on my own and try doing what I already knew. I have 3 children and one more on the way. My family is my motivation. I am able to see them every day as before I was traveling each week. To be able to support my wife and children is very important to me, and I want to be able to leave my furniture company to them if that's something they would want to do.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would consider just taking the leap and starting my own business as my biggest accomplishment. We have 3 locations, soon to be 4, so we are growing, and I am really proud of that, but the hardest challenge is taking the leap.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Besides actually getting the confidence to start a business, I would say that it would be the sacrifices you need to make to be able to grow the business. We are working like crazy now, so in the future, I can step back and let the company run on its own with well-trained employees.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- If you have a dream, go for it, don't be scared to take the leap of faith.
- Stop being miserable doing something that you don't like. Pick something you are passionate about and love doing, and go for it!
- Don't ever give up! Everyone will fail; take those as lessons, learn from them, and move forward.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://legacyfurniturestore.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/karl.finley.9
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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