Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in design services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melanie Grandoit, Owner of Melanie Latrelle Grandoit, LLC., located in Lawrenceville, GA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I design websites for women entrepreneurs, moms, and service-based businesses so they can generate more leads and book their ideal clients. I help business owners create a visual identity for their brands through color, design, and photography. The women I serve are using their gifts to make a positive impact in their community. They are passionate about what they do, and they seek to make a difference in people’s lives.
Tell us about yourself
I started my business after taking a break from a 15-year corporate career. I didn’t plan to start a business, however, my husband saw the gifts inside of me and encouraged me to become an entrepreneur. I’m glad I listened to him. I’m motivated to see women stepping out on faith in their business and believing in themselves. I love seeing people in our community solve problems for others and serve with excellence.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Before the pandemic, my husband and I signed up for a free memoirs writing class at the library. We wanted to learn how to write our life stories. Fran Stewart was our memoirs mentor, and she volunteered her time to help us document key moments in our lives. When the pandemic hit, the libraries were closed, and Fran was unable to teach classes in person. She reached out to me about building a new website so she could sell her books and maybe even teach memoirs classes online. We worked together to create her new brand. I created her color palette, logo, website, and brand photos. She found the confidence to start her business online and teach memoirs classes through Zoom. She went from teaching for free at the library to now running her own business and booking out her classes. I love seeing her succeed, and it makes me happy to be a part of her journey!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Staying consistent can be challenging for me when I do not see the results I expect. It’s different than working a 9-5 job because consistent income is not as predictable. However, I love the freedom of time and schedule and being able to create and launch new ideas and services that help business owners stand out online and reach their target audience.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Find a business mentor. Someone who has experienced the journey you are on and was able to find success. You want to learn from this person. Learn from their mistakes and their wins.
- Set goals and write them down. Be easy on yourself. Write attainable goals that won’t overwhelm you or burn you out. Implement habits that will help you reach these goals, and then celebrate your accomplishments!
- Build a community. Connect with other entrepreneurs and find those who you can collaborate with, offer value to, and learn from. Continue to meet new people, offer value in some way, and nurture those relationships. A healthy business network is very valuable.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://melanielatrelle.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melanie.latrelle.grandoit/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melaniegrandoit/
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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