Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Giselle Climpson, Founder of Giselle Avenue, located in Atlanta, GA, USA.

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

I'm Giselle, the Founder & Creator of Giselle Avenue -- a digital media agency and a world of imagination! I help people and businesses learn how to create a valuable brand with a lasting impact. Most of all, my goal is to help readers like you find your voice and be heard.

Tell us about yourself

I started my career as an artist over a decade ago, paving my own way in the world, offering my talents and skills of writing, storytelling, spoken word, ideation, masterminding, brand design, and creative direction. I was inspired to create Giselle Avenue because there were no visible black women in the space of Digital Art, Marketing, Branding, and Communications--- so I became her.

I am motivated by my own personal journey of entrepreneurship and embarking on a new industry at a time when digital media wasn't such a widely accepted concept. I want to inspire others to go for their dreams by way of imagination and to stay loyal to the essence of what makes you, you!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is growing my website into a global brand and resource for people across the world looking for the latest in art exhibits, music, spirituality, lifestyle, and social media.

When I first created Giselle Avenue, it was a blog and a safe space for me to channel my own voice, but since then, it has evolved into a digital media company and branding powerhouse, and I'm really humbled by all of the brands I've impacts to date.

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

Funding! I'll say it louder for the people in the back: access to funding and resources. Business is fueled by the people you serve, and cash flow is what keeps the business flowing. Although I have no backing from investors or anything like that, I've been able to bootstrap my company and also access various grants created for women, especially black women, in business.

My advice is to keep creating and keep pushing towards your vision, even when the cash isn't flowing like you may want at this very moment. Your passion will eventually evolve into a paycheck; you just have to keep going.

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

  1. Discover your why, and it can't just be money. Passion will take you much further than money, so focus on why you want to start your business.
  2. Figure out your "thing." I believe we are all multi-dimensional beings, but being everywhere can sometimes get in the way of the one thing that will help you reach the next level. Start with your one thing, then expand from there.
  3. It's okay to rest, but don't quit. Plain and simple.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

As the world continues to evolve, so will the way we view business and make a living. If you're unsure about the steps to consider yourself "in business" or how you should get started, do your research. Information is key, and information will be the secret ingredient to your long-term success. Knowledge is empowering. Do your research and become an expert in the field you're looking to break into; the internet is your friend!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://ongiselleave.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GiselleAvenue/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/giselleave/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/giselleave
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/giselleclimpson/

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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