In 2021 I quit my job and decided to go back to school for art. Due to the pandemic not all of the classes I wanted to take were available, so I decided to try a ceramics class. I fell in love with it and decided to pursue it as a career.
1. What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
My grandfather’s passing is what motivated me to quit my job and go to a school for art. Unfortunately, I don’t think I would have had the courage to do it if he were still here. There is something about being apart of someone’s transitioning out of this life that really makes you think about what truely matters.
2. Tell us about your business.
I am now a full time ceramic artist. I make handmade cups, mugs, vases, bowls, planters, pots, jars, etc. During the week I am in the studio probably about 12 hours a day while also keeping up with networking via social media. On the weekends I go to various pop up/small business events and I display and sell my work.
3. Where is your business based?
My business is based in Long Beach, CA.
4. What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
The first step I took to get my business up and running was quitting my job and going back to school. Then I created and Instagram for my ceramic business and I only followed other potters. I studied their post aesthetic, reels, price to follower count, how often they posted etc.
5. What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
The most effective way I have been able to network has been through doing pop up events. It’s one thing to see my pieces on your phone, it’s a completely different thing to hold them in your hand. Advertising myself and letting them know if they want to watch me make the pieces they are looking at to follow me on instagram. I am currently averaging about 70 new followers a month by networking at pop up events
6. What have been your biggest challenges so far?
My biggest challenge so far is turning my in person sales into online sales. That is someone I am still currently struggling with.
7. How did you overcome these challenges?
I am honestly just pushing through it. Not letting it discourage me and to be patient with myself. My business is still very new and I just need to keep hitting the pavement and getting my work out there!
8. What is the best advice you have received recently?
The best advice I have received lately is, “Don’t give up!” It is sooo easy to just get a “regular job.” I don’t think people understand that when your have your own business it is 24/7, zero breaks and zero days off.
9. What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
The advice I would give is the same I recieved. DON’T GIVE UP!! YOU GOT THIS! WE GOT THIS!
10. What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
I am currently learning about online networking. This has been my biggest struggle through this process.
11. What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My goal for the next few months is to transition into solely online sales. I am planning on taking some courses directed at artists and how to successfully network online.
12. What is your favorite business tool or resource?
Instagram and Facebook groups are my favorite business tools. The amount of people you are able to reach and grow your business there is great!
13. What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
- Instagram: @photojenicart
- Facebook: @photojenicart
- TikTok: @photojenicart
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