Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in art education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sofia del Rivero, Owner of Art Box, located in Miami, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Art Box is an art business offering all kinds of lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Toddlers, kids, teens, and even adults can benefit from what Art Box has to offer.
Tell us about yourself
I am an artist myself, and I know what an important role arts education and supportive teachers played in my childhood and formal training later on. When I started this business, I wanted to offer proper resources and creative outlets for kids who are just as I was - craving to learn anything they can about art! I love providing them with the opportunity to get their hands messy, explore different mediums, learn about different artists and movements, and find their own voice and style as artists. The gift of art is one of the most beautiful gifts that can be given, and as a teacher, it is such a rewarding job to experience on a daily basis. Over the years, the business has been branching out to include all ages, from toddlers to adults.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment is creating a positive impact on my students. It is so gratifying to inspire young students and then learn many years later that they are applying to advanced art programs or entering art contests. Hearing such positivity from my clients and realizing that I am to them what my teachers were for me is so rewarding and the reason I do what I do.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things is learning to adapt and roll with the punches. During the pandemic, for example, I definitely had to be quick on my feet and think of ways I could still help my community during this strange time. We were so limited and yet also so desperately in need of some kind of therapeutic creative outlet, so I was determined to find a solution. I began teaching live online classes, recording art classes that could be emailed, and also doing in-person house calls. This introduced me to a whole new platform, which was a way of making lemonade out of life's lemons.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Be very clear on what your goal is. How is your business going to make a positive impact on society? What is it that makes your business unique?
- Be prepared to spend the first few years making mistakes and learning from them. Do not get frustrated, as the only way to grow is through a trial and error process.
- Understand who your audience is and know when to say YES and when to say NO. At first, it might seem like saying yes to every opportunity is the right thing to do, but over time, you will realize when it is appropriate to filter out opportunities that do not serve you or contribute to your end goal.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.artboxmiami.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/artboxmiami/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/artboxmiami/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofiadelrivero/
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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