Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Witusik, Owner of Evolve, located in Clinton, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own Evolve; we are a sustainable general store and a recycler, and we sell locally made gifts. Our customers are anyone who wants to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle! Our goal is to have sustainable alternatives for all of your everyday items. From toothbrushes and laundry detergent to cosmetics and secondhand clothing, we have everything you need to start your low-waste journey!
Tell us about yourself
My business started from a COVID mental breakdown! I had been a stay-at-home mom for seven years and desperately needed something to do that was all mine. I took my interest in a sustainable life and turned it into a low-waste store where people from my community could come and start or expand their eco-friendly journey. The two things that motivate me the most are my family and the earth.
I am proud that my kids will grow up seeing their parents taking risks and doing what they actually want to do rather than following the norm and working the typical 9–5 job. I also love educating my customers on the impacts of certain products and how we, as individuals, can make small changes to improve our planet and also teach future generations to follow our example and treat our earth better.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is growing my business so much within the first year. In the first year, we moved from a small space to a great storefront in an awesome little village. Going into our second holiday season and our first in our new location, I am excited to see what comes next.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The financial stress of being a business owner is definitely the hardest part. Learning to budget properly is essential and something I didn't have down until recently.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
The first tip I would give someone who is looking into starting a business is to make sure that if it doesn't make a profit within the first two years that you will still be able to pay your personal bills.
The second tip is to never stop learning. You may think you know a lot about whatever you are going to do, but in reality, you are a baby in this field. You are just starting, and you have so much to learn. Stay humble, keep an open mind, and never stop researching new things.
Third, take friends and family's advice with a grain of salt. Make sure you stay true to yourself and do what you want to do. Just because your uncle had a certain experience with something doesn't mean you will. Listen to their advice and keep it in the back of your mind but follow your own gut instinct first.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.evolvegifts.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/EvolveGift/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/evolvegifts/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/evolve-gifts/
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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