Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Christopher Hulbert, Owner of LC Boards, located in White Salmon, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
LC Boards sells professional-level miniature skateboards called fingerboards. They can be used to replicate the tricks of a real skateboard and have all the same features, such as a wooden deck and bearing wheels. However, it is not easy and takes time to master. There is a big culture around the hobby, mostly younger kids and teens. It is great because fingerboard "spots" can be found just about anywhere, from inside the school to out in the city streets or even just your own kitchen.
Tell us about yourself
I am a first-year college student who has always been interested in extreme sports such as BMX, skiing, and kiteboarding. I made my first fingerboard back in my high school woodshop and started selling them one by one on eBay. Then after learning about social media and how to put together a website along with overseas manufacturing, I have grown it into a multi-employee operation within a few years. The best part and biggest motivator is giving kids a fun and safe hobby to do that can keep them away from the grime of going to a real skatepark.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is creating a stream of videos and content every day for fellow fingerboards to enjoy across multiple different platforms and being able to see them all interact and share a passion for the same hobby.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest part of running the business is remembering to keep the fun in the brand even when things get bogged down due to supplier shipment delays or other day-to-day issues. Because at the end of the day, fingerboarding is a super fun and creative activity that gives kids a chance to relax and have fun.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- My first tip is just to get started! No matter how big you want to scale or what crazy plans you may have, the best way to get things rolling is to get your idea launched as soon as possible and see how it goes.
- The second is to not quit when things get rough. Businesses are just basically a big string of problems that need to be solved in order to succeed.
- The third is to be patient and stick with it. Goals won't be met overnight but showing up consistently and putting in work will get you there quicker than you may think.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.lcboards.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lc.boards/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lcboardsfingerboards
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-hulbert-23a9ab24a/
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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