Networking Without the "Work"

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sara Alepin, Owner of District Bliss, located in Arlington, VA, USA.

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

District Bliss is a community of introverted and extroverted entrepreneurs who are sick of the stodgy and want to break free in order to build their businesses with ease. Together, we move from feeling isolated and overworked into highly-supported humans. Through workshops, networking, socials, and collaboration, we build deep, authentic connections and move beyond struggling to make ends meet to profitable!

Tell us about yourself

I started as a high school teacher with a "summer job" as a wedding photographer. When I transitioned into full-time entrepreneurship, I started networking in hopes of building a supportive group of business owners so we could scale together. But, I couldn't find any events that felt welcoming, and I quickly started to feel anxious about even attending a networking event. So, I decided to break the system and host Networking Socials that were welcoming and fun. I was very intentional in my brand to convey that hard-selling, competitive behavior was not welcome at our events. We've been going strong ever since!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

The District Bliss Community's success is my success; our Members are continually exceeding their goals - financially and personally - through our program. They collaborate and support one another. For me, that's more of an accomplishment than the awards I've won and the international stages I've spoken on.

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

Setting boundaries surrounding work-life balance - and conveying those boundaries in a clear way so that clients understand them. They're not only important for us as a business owner, but they're also vital for client success.

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

Set boundaries - for yourself and for your clients.
Get clear on your networking goals before attending an event.
Collaborations increase your visibility so you can scale quickly. Find businesses that complement yours and start collaborating early and often (even as you grow)!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://districtbliss.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DistrictBlissEvents
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/districtblissevents/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/district-bliss-events/

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.