Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tina Corrado, a contract video/graphic design producer and a self-taught artist based in Astoria, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Tits Up by Tina is an e-commerce art shop dedicated to inspiring joy through body positive design/art that is available in apparel, decor, and art prints. All original work that is printed has been painted or crafted by me. With 17+ years of experience producing graphic design and video for various media outlets, I am now sharing my love for creating transformative and fun designs.
My dream is to inspire others, reaching women and men of all ages to simply enjoy life every day as its being lived, no matter where one might find themselves on their journey. To show them that they, too, can create and become inspired. To feel good - mind, body, heart, and spirit.
Tell us about yourself
I have lost 160 pounds on my own and maintained it for the last 21 years. This story is the inspiration behind my creative work, a spirit of creative living and giving back. I've always been motivated by finding a deeper meaning in situations instead of saying, "why me?" - I always tried to turn it into - "how can I change this?" or "how can I give myself the time and grace that is required to grow from a hardship?" Those core beliefs and having faith that we don't miss what's meant for us have constantly kept me going. That we are not our story, we are what we make of it.
My curiosity and need to push the boundaries of understanding myself so I can translate that into words and art to help others see reflections of themselves - that keeps me going. To live a purposeful life and to do purposeful work. Art found me after resigning from a job, starting a small health business, going back to work, and then experiencing pandemic living.
In 2020, with the time alone and the time to truly reflect - I began reading The Artists Way. I didn't know I had so much to express, always cooking or writing to share a story - but painting came so naturally, as though it always lived inside of me. And I figured if I could paint and attach words and a story to the artwork - one of growth, body positivity, color, joy, and hope - there would have to be others who could relate and want to share in this experience. I make art to create a space in the world where pain - be it from generational traumas or personal hurt - is turned into joy.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment to date is the emails, DMs, and texts I've received from customers, strangers, and friends that have purchased my artwork. It really makes me take a step back, breathe and understand that the power of sharing our stories and transforming them into something tangible can create a ripple effect where others open up, pain is transformed to love, and what once showed up as hurt can be viewed as a joy. It's been the people. The connections - it's the most beautiful part of having a heart-centered business.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The hardest thing, especially when creating and selling art, is the constant vulnerability. The risk and wonder of "will this work out?" This is my second venture into business, and every day is an exercise in finding balance. But anything is possible. I know it is.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Listen to your heart. You can do anything or start anything if your heart is in it and has pure intentions. Think about how your work can be a gift to others and make an impact. Just do it. And take your time; it's not a race, and there's no need to rush an idea or to chase. There's no failure, only learning and growth.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: http://www.tinacorrado.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100084903109789
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/titsup_bytina/
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.