Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in handcrafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marcia Wensley, Owner of Always Designs, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

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

My name is Marcia, I'm based in Calgary, Alberta, and my business is called Always Designs. I create word, number, and shape collages using my customers' photos. My customers are anyone that wants to create a memorable gift for a loved one or themselves.

Tell us about yourself

I started my business in 2017 when my maternity leave ended, and I decided not to go back to my software developer job. I've had a passion for photography for years, even took some courses one summer. I also loved tinkering with Photoshop and editing my own photographs. That's where my inspiration for my business started.

I opened my shop on Etsy and found success there, so I opened a second Etsy shop later that year, also focusing on my passions. I love being creative and coming up with new designs. My kids keep me motivated to continue so I can remain at home with them.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment has repeat customers that believe in my business and my products so that they keep coming back each year.

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

You do it all from designing, creating, talking to customers, and advertising. It's hard to find the time to balance it all and family time.

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

  1. Focus on your strengths and passions.
  2. Research is there a market for your product, what platform will you be using to sell, who are your customers, etc.
  3. Stay on top of the trends, and put out new products.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Be passionate about what you do and keep creating.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AlwaysDesignsCo
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alwaysdesignsco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alwaysdesignsco/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.