Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in marketing services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Debra Lutsky, Founder of Digital Retail Partners, located in Darien, CT, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Digital Retail Partners is an integrated design and marketing studio working at the intersection of eCommerce technology, branding, and operations for Direct to Consumer brands. At DRP, we have a passion for creation and story-telling. As a women-owned & women-led Shopify certified agency, our clients come in all shapes and sizes, from startups to established brands and from every corner of the globe. Categories include Fashion, Health/Wellness, Food/Beverage, Professional Services, and Non-Profits.
Tell us about yourself
I founded Digital Retail Partners in 2015. When I saw the shift early on in traditional retail and focused my efforts on learning Shopify, one of the world's largest eCommerce platforms. Prior to that, I had a background in traditional graphic design as I hold a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in communication design from Parsons The New School for Design and a Bachelor of Arts Degree in creative writing from Eugene Lang College The New School for Liberal Arts. In addition to running the agency now, I am motivated to help other young women develop businesses and careers in design and development. In design schools, 70% of students are women, but only .1% of all creative agencies are founded by women. We donate our time and work with the Connecticut Women's Business Development Council to provide training and education for women to launch and scale their businesses. I am passionate about being a leader in the community of women cheering each other on to succeed.
I am very passionate about design in general. I just gravitate to anything design related, whether it is a beautiful website, interior, packaging, or even video. This makes my job easier because I love what I do. I consider the main component of running a business that offers professional services is helping other businesses. I truly enjoy helping startups launch and established businesses grow.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment on paper was being honored in 2018 with the Women Rising Award by the Women's Business Development Council. However, awards are not why I do this. I am heading into my ninth year in business, which is an accomplishment for me.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
It is incredibly important as an entrepreneur to still make time for yourself. Starting a business is all-encompassing, and it definitely impacts your personal life, but it is crucial to recharge your batteries, take breaks, and a step back every once in a while to continue to stay inspired.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Only about half of all small businesses will make it to celebrate their five-year anniversary. Three tips from my experience:
- There is No RIGHT or WRONG Way.
Each brand and business we work with is unique. We have discovered what works for one doesn't always work for another. - Begin by launching an MVP approach.
With a minimal viable product, you can gauge interest and begin generating revenue. This revenue provides feedback, allowing you the ability to recognize the most efficient aspects of your business. Focus your business model on continual development. Take, for example, Amazon's commitment to continual iteration. Amazon didn't just build its site and walk away. - Change is GOOD.
The needs of a consumer changes over time - anticipate and embrace this change! Be ready to offer exciting new products, services, or features that will continue to make the consumer come back for more. A successful brand is not just built on the first purchase but the retention of current customers.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://digitalretailpartners.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/digitalretailpartners
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/digitalretailpartners/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/digital-retail-partners/
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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