Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing and web design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Stephanie Hamilton, Founder of By Stephanie Design, LLC., located in Lancaster, PA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
By Stephanie Design is a boutique Graphic & Showit Web Design Studio offering a range of professional services and products for businesses that want to stand out in their field. From Brand Identity Design to Illustration and Web Design, we have the tools to make you Better by Design.
Tell us about yourself
I always knew I wanted to pursue a career that utilizes my art, design, and technology interests. I received a computer as a Christmas gift in elementary school and got hooked! I never looked back! I eventually got my BFA degree in Graphic Design. It was during a Design and Production internship at Martha Stewart Living Omnimedia, which showed me the workings of crafting a brand holistically - from print to packaging and the digital experience. Every little detail can make or break your brand. I carry this same care and attention to detail in my pursuit as an Entrepreneur and the work I produce. Those early beginnings have a lot of influence!
It was after my job as a Graphic Designer at a Marketing Agency I decided to utilize both my branding and advertising skills on a smaller scale helping businesses of all sizes who appreciate great design and understand how it will influence sales. For example, a lot of entrepreneurs are way too busy as is; some clients are running a salon and more - they don’t really have the time to research the tools, how to brand and market, to impact their business meaningfully. They likely don’t know about website builders that they can have their website look however they need it to. The added bonus of having complete control of their site and can make edits all on their own is my Why and what keeps me going. I just let my love of the craft define my path, and after many businesses serviced, an online shop, teams served on, and an Adobe partnership later, and I’m really happy with the choices I’ve made.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Anyone that likes my work is a major compliment! I get to express myself creatively and help my own business express its value. It’s a win-win!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
As I said, there are so many moving parts to being a business owner. Oftentimes the finest details can be overlooked. I had to let people know on Instagram that if they want their files to print professionally, then don’t use Canva!
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Only promote the best, industry-standard software - you can never go wrong!
- Be clear on the pain points your business is helping to solve through your products or services.
- Enjoy the pursuit!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.bystephaniedesign.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bystephaniedesign/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniehamilton/
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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