Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in graphic design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marielle Bachman, Founder of Bachman Design, located in New York, NY, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Bachman Design is a design and consulting business that helps established small businesses define and refine their branding, web design, and marketing strategies.
Tell us about yourself
My history in design goes as far back as my childhood, making business cards and flyers for my dog walking services! Of course, I honed my skills in design, marketing, and management while I attended college at one of the top-rated business schools in New York City, Baruch College, CUNY. Following graduation, I quickly began offering my developed skillsets on a freelance basis and have been self-sufficient ever since - for almost 10 years!
My primary motivator is the joy and balance between the plan and execution. Every macro idea consists of countless micro executions to make a vision come to life. Integrating these steps and ending up with a finished product instills in me a sense of accomplishment that never fails to bring me back to work. Every day my computer is filled with potential, and every year brings more and more inspiring clients my way.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My greatest accomplishment as a business owner has been establishing a healthy work-life balance. When I find the time to take care of myself and do the things that I love, the quality of work I provide is infinitely better, and the speed of my work increases drastically. I'm able to bring a positive and enthusiastic attitude to all of my projects. Design and branding should always be a joy; caring for myself helps me bring that energy to the table.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
One of the hardest things as a business owner is learning when to say yes... and when to say no. In my earlier years, I would accept everything that came my way, which led to frustration and confusion about what type of businesses I wanted to work with and what sort of work I wanted to create. Over time, I realized that not all work was good. Being more selective about who I chose to build relationships with improved the quality of my output and the quality of clients I attracted.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Name your files.
- Be humble.
- Never underestimate the power of a to-do list.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bachman.design/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarielleBachmanDesign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bachmandesign/
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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