Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and craft, but not sure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with the designer, Melissa Nezezon, owner of StatueRue in Burlington, Ontario, Canada.

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

Stationery & Brand Development. Clientele: Bride and Groom getting married and minor (local) to large (international) businesses.

What motivates you each day?

Formally trained as an illustrator, fine art painter, and graphic artist, the love of design came at a young age while playing amongst my parent's upholstery shop and delving into the world of timeless craftsmanship. After over a decade working in the corporate field, I followed my true passion in creating custom stationery and paper goods, embracing both modern minimalism & old-world charm. My heart is in every piece. I read a quote one day that said, "Why work hard to build someone else's dream when you can work just as hard to build your own." I quit my full-time job the next day and haven't looked back since.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Being featured in magazines + TV.

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

Jack of all trades, master on ALL (not "none," as the saying goes). Being the designer, delivery driver, accountant, assistant, assembler, secretary.

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

  1. You're never too old to start something new.
  2. Social Media + Cross Promotions is my go-to successful advertising method.
  3. Invest in professional branding (don't use an @Gmail/Hotmail etc., email address, have a good website with a contact form).

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Quality over Quantity and Community over Competitions.

Where can people find you online?

Website: https://www.statuerue.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/statuerue/

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 us out and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.