Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lea Parsons, Founder of ParsonsDesigns, LLC., located in Baltimore, MD, USA.

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

ParsonsDesigns, LLC focuses on clients who are in need of Event Planning and Interior Design Services. For example, as an Event Planner, I decorate for events such as Weddings, Birthdays, Graduations, and Baby Showers, and as an Interior Designer, I consult with clients about home decor and layout as well as provide kitchen/pantry/closets organization services.

Tell us about yourself

I was born and raised in St. Thomas, USVI. My passion for creating started when I watched the TLC Channel and saw shows such as Love It or List It. I saw the beauty in the details and wanted to pursue becoming a designer. I attended Savannah College of Art and Design in Atlanta, GA, where I graduated with a BFA in Interior Design. While attending SCAD-ATL, the idea of being a business owner came up in a class where we created our logo and business name. That planted a seed in me that I would say later water and watch grow. In moving to Maryland for a job opportunity, I started to dabble in assisting friends and family members with upcoming events. I realized I had a natural gift for event planning and slowly started making ParsonsDesigns a reality. I did my first official Wedding in 2018 and continued to work as an Interior Designer for various companies. I gleaned so much information working for other Interior Designers, architects, Builders/Contractors, and even for a Granite and Marble Company. I added Interior Design Consultations and Organization Services to ParsonsDesigns. My passion for creating, intertwined with loving to see people happy once I've made what they asked for come true, motivated me to keep going. I love what I do, and I like to inspire others to go after what they love too.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The biggest accomplishment I have reached so far (many more to come) is being able to participate in Maryland's Bridal and Wedding Expo this year (2022). It pushed me to step out of my comfort zone and put myself out there for others to see. It was enjoyable and taught me that even if I feel nervous, I can do whatever I put my mind to. I just need to keep moving forward, no matter how small the step is. Trust the process, love my growth (big or small), and remember to be true to myself and the vision I have for my business.

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

One of the hardest things to deal with as a business owner is a self-doubt. I've hindered my growth when I felt like I wasn't good enough to do what I do. I was reminded that I have a degree and a natural ability. You can figure out a business plan, you can figure out social media or hire someone to do it, but you can't be your best when you doubt yourself.

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

  1. Understand the why. Ask yourself the questions you need to understand the purpose of starting a business. Why are you starting the business? Why now? What's driving you to start (will need a reason to keep going)? Etc.
  2. Growth and success don't happen overnight for everyone. Plan, research, grind and focus on what you are trying to accomplish. Growth and success will happen, but they won't be given to you.
  3. Stay true to what you want your business to be. You can ask for advice and gain knowledge from other people who own/run a business, but what you envision it to be is what makes your business unique. Don't try to be like someone else or lose focus on what you want it to be.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.parsonsdesigns.org/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/parsonsdesigns7/

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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