Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Megan Chwiecko, Principal of Block Licensed Interior Design Inc., located in Calgary, AB, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a licensed commercial Interior Design firm located on Calgary's 17th avenue. Our studio focuses on award-winning and thoughtful design that meets each client's individual needs and requirements and each type of space we design. Whether it be a smart approach for future growth in a workplace, careful consideration for users and staff in a wellness/healthcare center, or creative solutions to create a strong brand identity and memorable experience in a new restaurant or retail store. We live for the strategic approach to a project as much as the design solution.
Tell us about yourself
Quite honestly, I did not embark on this path with the intent of ending here. I started my career working in a few of the larger architectural firms in Calgary. I loved the big projects and big teams required to make them happen. When it was time to have our second son, I made a choice to go out on my own. Pregnant, a four-year-old in tow, and throw in a new puppy and small home reno for good measure, and off I went. I loved it. I definitely would not do it again, but I loved it, and just like most entrepreneurs, I became addicted. Meeting the right additions to the team along the way, and here we are five years later, numerous projects later, and I could not be prouder of what Block has become and where we are going. Each and every day is different, and I am all for it!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The biggest reward has been to watch the business grow. To see us take on more clients, develop into new markets, build out our own new studio space, and each team member grow individually in their careers has been more than I could have wished for.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Cough...COVID! It's been an interesting time to help our clients navigate the impact of COVID on the economy and supply chain. Projects have been placed on hold, canceled after they have started, and moved ahead with a much more strategic approach required. We have moved from in the office, to working from home, to a hybrid of both. But...it's also allowed us and our clients to look at how we use space in a new light. Some interesting questions have been asked, some interesting solutions have been found, and some interesting conversations continue.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Build a web...and continually work on your web. It is very important to know what you know and who knows when you don't know. Having those contacts to lean on, to provide you work, who you provide work in return, who you can collaborate with, who will pass along your name with glory, who you can look to for advice, and who you can trust is so important.
- Build an "unofficial Board of Directors." This may be your husband, your sister, your best friend from university, another small business owner you met at a business accelerator, a mentor, etc. These people know you well, understand your passion and drive for your business, and give you constructive criticism. They will support you and provide you insight when you need it most...and they may not even know they've done it!
- Know your why and your values and stick to them. Refer back to them when you need reassurance and guidance.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
There is a great "web" out there of like-minded small business owners and amazing resources. Do yourself a service and look into, keep connecting, and keep looking for better for you and your business!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.blockinc.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blockinc.ca/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/block-interior-design-inc/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.