Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Kennedy, Owner of Sew Many Things, located in Cold Lake, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is all about making already cute babies look that much cuter. My products are all handmade and intended to make a new mom's life easier while still being stylish. I would like to think that my customers are moms and moms-to-be, although I know that friends and families will also be involved.
Tell us about yourself
While still working full time at my "9-5" job, I was working to create this amazing business. I love to garden, craft, and spend quality time with my family. When I was little, my parents enrolled me in sewing classes, where I gained a love for the art. I really dove deep into the craft when I was pregnant with my first child. I was stuck on bed rest and needed something to do other than watch TV. After getting permission from my Dr. to sew, I started making all the cute things. My creativity got away from me, and I just started making. With so much time on my hands, I convinced my family to haul all my makes to the local farmers market, where I was still able to keep my feet up and yet also socialize at the same time.
Knowing that people were interested in my products, it just kept growing from there, and 10+ years later, the product line may have changed, but the quality of the product is still there. My love for sewing gets me in trouble at times as the need to create sometimes overwhelms me. I end up creating some very amazing things but not always "on brand," so you may find some very unique items on my site at times.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
It may be a small win but being invited to different large craft shows and being featured at a brick-and-mortar store, I think, is my biggest accomplishment. Sales are great but being sought out for my products is flattering.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Time - I'm still working my 9-5, and with the downturn, I have started doing alterations as well, so balancing work, family, and business is the hardest thing.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Get help - as much as we want to do it alone; there are people out there that excel in many different aspects that can take some weight off your shoulders.
- Do what you love - there is no point in starting a business out of something that you don't love doing.
- Take your time - there are a lot of moving parts you want to put out a clear image of who you are and what you're about.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/SewManyThingsCA
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SewManyThings1/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sewmanythings01
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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