Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Linette Hernandez, Owner of Shop Normee's, located in Newport News, VA, USA.

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

My business sells press-on nails and planner stickers. My customers are female mothers who want salon nails without the salon price or time.

Tell us about yourself

My family and I live in a motel. I have two high-functioning autistic adolescents with mental illness and a preschooler. I have a mental illness and now require the assistance of a wheelchair. This makes it impossible for me to work. I have no support system in the state we currently reside in, so I had to find a way to create a steady income that did not require inventory or spending money. Plus, nails have always been my thing, and I always wanted to learn how to do them, so when covid hit, why not take a leap of faith and explore what my hobby could do for me?

What motivates me is knowing that my business will one day grow to allow me to buy a family land with a home. My businesses would let my family finally have a place to call home after almost five years of struggling. I know our day will come. It is all about surviving right now while trying to raise these fantastic unique children I have.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I have my Shop Normee's, where I get to be creative and allow myself to get lost while creating the sets, and I also have Coaching With Linette H Life Coach for Parents, which is my passion. I love that I get to be a mom while building a legacy for my family, which will set us financially free.

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

Balancing work from home since I work at home is a challenging task for me. I get lost in whichever work I do and forget that I need to clock out, even if it's just an imaginary time clock.

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

Have patience, believe in yourself, and don't give up. It is not easy to build a business from scratch with no support. Even though it has been 15 months, I am still growing mine, and my sales are barely there. I am determined to continue to do what I do, for I know I will succeed.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Don't let the opinion of others determine your drive for the dream you have. Be your biggest cheerleader, even if no one else will.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://shopnormees.store/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShopNormees

Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/shopnormees/
https://www.instagram.com/parentingwithmentalillness/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/shop-normee-s/

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.