Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jen Pinkston, founder of La Paloma, located in Austin, TX, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

La Paloma makes artful pieces for women and kids to sleep, lounge, and play with! The brand was born one night while I was getting my two daughters ready for bed and wishing for pieces that were more playful, art-inspired, and made of higher quality, natural fibers. Making these pieces is my favorite thing I've ever done in my career. Our customers are thoughtful consumers who make purchases with a lot of intention. They appreciate our fewer, better mantra and the unmatched coziness and quality of our pieces.

Tell us about yourself

I grew up in Austin, Texas but spent ten years in Los Angeles after college working as a wardrobe stylist. I got into digital content creation in 2009 while I was still styling and feel like all of these different chapters of my career have come full circle with La Paloma. I love that we are building a business that shines a light on the magic of childhood and is able to give back to organizations focused on making childhood magic for more kids.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

In 2021 we were named to Forbes' Next 1000 list. Honestly, though, nothing makes me happier than when we get a review from one of our customers. Hearing what they love about our pieces or how they make them feel, hearing how their kids never want to take them off– nothing is more gratifying than that! I'm always like, "Yes! That's why we started La Paloma!"

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

Riding the waves of the highs and lows, especially with a product-based business. I'm overseeing the development, production, wholesale orders, website, fulfillment, marketing, and everything in between! I love that I get to wear so many hats, but I have to set boundaries, or I could work 24/7 on it.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Take your time. Get it right from the beginning, and make sure you're starting with a strong base.
  2. Give yourself a longer cash runway than you think you will need. There are always hidden or unforeseen costs that you forget to factor into projections.
  3. Be clear about where you want to be in 5-10 years with the business and work backward from there to come up with a strategic plan.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Starting a business is not for the faint of heart. It's full of stresses and challenges... but it's also so gratifying and so fulfilling to build something meaningful to both you and a community of customers who love your product as much as you do!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://shoplapaloma.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopLaPaloma
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shoplapaloma/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-pinkston-60476849/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.