Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in graphic design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Carroll M. Berg, Founder of Berg Ink LLC., located in Goffstown, NH, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I am a graphic designer and printer. I am a one-stop shop for all your printing needs, from Apparel to paper products all the way up to signage! My customers are the best, and I try and support them by sharing and plugging them with every post I make. So if you are a business looking for personal attention to help tackle your brand, Berg Ink is your answer!

Tell us about yourself

I was 12 years old, doing fine art drawing. My parents used to make them into greeting cards to mail out to their customers at this little local print shop, and my mother made me come in with her. She asked if I could clean, empty garbage, and help organize for an hour in exchange for time on the computer. The first day I was gone for two hours. One hour cleaning, one-hour working. The next day I was vinyl lettering a truck; I came home after dark. I was in love. I had ink in my veins; I knew that I had to learn how to screenprint and design. So from 1996 to the present, I have been bringing ideas to life!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being an actual business owner. Taking pride in my work. I printed a banner that a customer sent me; it was "ready to go," and I ran it, and it was pixelated. I knew there was no way I was going to let her hang that up. So I redid the artwork and reprinted the banner; she was floored. I can't let something that isn't flawless leave my office. I have done work for the World Series of Boxing that was broadcast on ESPN and HBO, but I am proudest when I hear my customers say, "Oh, Wow!" seeing their logo on a sweatshirt or on a 6ft banner.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

Saying no to a job. There have been a few times where I know the job isn't worth doing (few and far between) or a customer and I don't work well together. I love all my customers; I enjoy working with them and love running into them out in the real world. I pour my heart and soul into every job, so to have someone come up and shake my hand or hug me at the grocery store or out to dinner... means the world.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Research. Read! Find a mentor!
  2. Start small, Don't overspend.
  3. BILLING IS MOST IMPORTANT!
  4. GET A BUSINESS CREDIT CARD!!! I am amazed how many business owners who don't already have a credit card can get points or air miles for purchasing things for their shop.
  5. But most importantly, have fun! If you love what you do, you won't work a day in your life!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://bergink.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BergInkllc
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/berg_ink_llc/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BERGINKLLC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/berg-ink-llc/

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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