Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in creative arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Erin Nielson, Founder of Illustration by Erin, located in Mckinney, TX, USA.

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

I'm a freelance illustrator in McKinney, Texas (just outside of Dallas). I work from my home studio, and I collaborate with clients on artwork for children, especially illustrations for middle-grade books.

Tell us about yourself

I've always wanted to be an artist, and my love for books made becoming a children's book illustrator a natural choice. I love what I do and am always thinking of new stories that I can write or illustrate. Making a living off of creating art has been a dream come true.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment so far as a business owner is simply a successful business. I've worked hard not only to make great art but to make money doing it. Reaching that goal and seeing my art in published books has been an exciting process!

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

Being able to push through even when things don't seem to be going well! Every business will have rough patches, and sometimes it seems like things aren't working. Pushing through and continuing to work at improving your business can be hard.

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

  1. Find something you're passionate about. If you love what you do, you're far more likely to be a success.
  2. Be consistent! Building a business is hard, and few businesses become an instant hit. Figuring out what works for you and your business, marketing, and becoming successful takes a lot of time and work. Just getting started and consistently working at it will help you learn, push through rough patches, and mold your business into what it needs to be.
  3. Find connections. Network with others, share what you do, start up a social media, find other small business friends, etc. Not only does that help you build up the support you need, but you can often find new and natural ways to grow your business as you form connections with others.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.illustrationbyerin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IllustrationbyErin/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/illustrationbyerin/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/IllustrationbyE
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/illustrationbyerin/

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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