Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Susann Taylor, owner of Taylor'd Metals, located in Duncan, BC, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My business is Taylor'd Metals. I make hand-stamped jewelry and home decor. My customers typically have a great sense of humour and like to find the unexpected. My product ranges from sweet and sentimental to humourous and adult (which must be asked about to be seen in person).
Tell us about yourself
My business started 12 years ago when I went to New York and came across jewelry pieces with quotes on them. I was inspired by how each piece I read reminded me of someone in my life. I loved the connection and ended up bringing back eight pieces as gifts. I ordered a hobby kit to start stamping and have been self-taught along the way.
A day in the studio is a gift to immerse myself in all my biggest personality traits. My pieces showcase my softer side with a large dose of humour which I believe is so important in life. Meeting my customers in person at the various events I attend (I regularly am a vendor at the Duncan Farmers' Market & the Cedar Farmers' Market) and listening to them laugh, share, and cry as my pieces touch them in a variety of ways really keeps me motivated to create more.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Having built my business from a little hobby to a full-time job that allows me to focus on creating and doing what I love is my biggest accomplishment.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing as a business owner is wearing various hats, from being the creator, seller, shipper, and everything in between. There never seem to be enough hours in any given day to accomplish everything.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do something you love to do. It will help keep you going on those hard days.
- Connect with others in a similar line of work. It helps to bounce ideas off and have support.
- Schedule in days that you disconnect. It will help you re-charge and avoid burnout.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
If you are a self-motivator finding a job that you love, are your own boss, and can sustain is really living the dream. The hard work you put into it will reward you in so many ways.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/taylordmetals
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/taylordmetalsjewelry
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/taylordmetals/
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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