Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and craft but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Brittany Garner, creator of Abstract Pourfections, located in Overland, MO, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Abstract Pourfections specializes in handmade resin barware and home decor. Our barware consists of coasters, wine holders, and multi-purpose trays either, À la cart or as a set. If customers want something a little different from our ready-made items, they can customize each piece to their taste. The same can be done for our home decor. Our home decor right now consists of wall art, small and large pieces. We offer a few different wall art styles, from acrylic pours to resin geode paintings, on either canvas or wood panel. Our goal is to allow our customers to have works of art that fit their personalities.
Tell us about yourself
I have loved art since I was a child. I've always been drawn to bright and bold colors, and I love a good DIY. I ventured into a direct sales business selling wine in 2020 and was looking for some cute gift ideas for my hosts, along with cute decor to set up during my tastings. I'm not completely sure how I found out about resin art; I think it was Instagram. But after some research and experimenting, I fell in love with how versatile resin can be.
I made my first acrylic pour painting for a friend's bridal shower. Home decor was a gift option, and she provided the color scheme of their new home. During my ongoing research of things that can be done with resin, I knew making her something from the heart was the way to go. I didn't expect her to open the painting during the shower, but of course, she did, lol. I received so much positive feedback that day, and within a few days of posting, I had a few orders come through.
When it comes to what keeps me motivated, if I may be a bit transparent, my mental health does. There have been moments when I wasn't in the best mood and didn't have the energy for simple tasks, but there's this sense of freedom, a sense of not having to be perfect when it comes to painting that not many things can match. I get excited when I paint or work with resin.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To date, my biggest accomplishment is not giving up. I have a good support system that takes an interest in where I'd like to take my business. They randomly check on me to see if I've made any new pieces or if I'll be at any upcoming vendor's event. This has also helped me open up more about my business because people do care about why you have to go on!
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing to date is building my social media. The goal is most definitely to sell my art. But I want you to have a welcoming presence and not all about making a few dollars. I am learning to get more comfortable with my voice on video so I can start doing voiceovers and maybe make a few appearances on my platforms, so they become a bit personal as well.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
This first tip comes from my BFF, who also has her own business (Eat More Cakes by Niecey)…." Do it!" Whenever I tell her about an idea or technique I want to learn, her response is, "Do it!" Do it now! Do it scared! It doesn't have to be perfect right away; get your products/services out there!
My second tip would be don't compare yourself to anyone. We all have our favorites in whatever industry we're in that we look up to. Learn from them! When and if they provide tips, take notes and apply them when necessary. Many have been perfecting their crafts for a while, so we see the fruit of old labor. Not how imperfect or all over the place they were starting. And also, remember, no matter how many other businesses offer similar services or products, they're not you!
My third tip is to breathe and have fun. Remember, there was something that excited you about your business, to begin with. Things can become stressful and overwhelming quickly. Take a step back when needed. Focus on what you can at the moment. Remember, the long-term goals are needed, but don't get lost and frustrated along the way because you are moving too quickly through the short-term process to get you there!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/AbstractPourfections
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AbstractPourfections
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abstract.pourfections_/
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.
