Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Derek Hoeksema, Owner of Oh Sew Nerdy, located in McHenry, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I am a self-taught cross-stitcher and designer. I make pop culture leaning cross stitches, felt banners, stickers, patches, and oh so many more things. My customers are usually people who have a sense of humor and love inside jokes. I really enjoy distilling a movie, tv show, or pop culture moment down to an object or simple phrase. My hoops are all 4” - so the objects that I stitch are typically smaller than a quarter. But I make sure to get as much detail as possible.
Tell us about yourself
I was looking for a way to keep busy while we were between apartments and a house for the better part of a year. So, I taught myself how to cross stitch and have kept trying to teach and refine my skill set. I live with chronic depression - so I’ll be honest. It’s hard to be motivated to make something each day. I’m trying my best to do that, though. Staying in the mindset of making something that you enjoy is the key. It doesn’t matter if it’s something that you think will sell - the joy comes from making something I like and getting to share it with people.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment has been holding solo art shows at Gallery 1988. I was the first stitch artist they had to do a solo show. I’ve participated with them numerous times over the years.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
As someone that has depression, it’s the constant struggle of that and imposter syndrome. It’s hard to tell people you have a small business that is your own art. People tend to see it as a hobby or something that isn’t “real.” It is though. I spend 3+ hours on each stitch. Everything I do is made with my own hands and comes from me. It’s difficult, but it’s worth it.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Just start doing it. It doesn’t have to be your one full-time thing - but just start. And make sure to get your social media stuff in order.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.ohsewnerdy.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ohsewnerdy/
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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