Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kelsey Youmans, Owner of Grounded Garden Design LLC., located in Seattle, WA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I design edible and ornamental gardens and landscapes for the urban residential homeowner. My mission is to support the well-being of people and the planet by creating sustainable and organic landscapes. I approach every project with a balance between the built environment and natural ecosystems.
Tell us about yourself
I grew up in the mountains of Oregon and drew inspiration from the natural landscapes that surrounded my childhood. Gardening and design have been lifelong passions and pursuits, and I started my business in 2021 during the pandemic, seizing on the inward shift to the home and the "pandemic garden." Ultimately, I believe my job is to facilitate and translate my clients' vision for the landscape. I bring a very collaborative spirit to the design process, and every day, I strive to deliver the best possible service and product.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I am extremely proud that I have been able to develop a referral network pretty quickly, given my business is still in its infancy. Thus far, in 2022, I am on track to exceed revenue growth by approximately 150% from this time last year. Of course, I wouldn't have been able to achieve this if it weren't for amazing mentors and clients willing to give me a chance.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Without a steady and predictable stream of revenue, it is difficult to execute some of the capital expenditure strategies that would enable me to scale, especially for my business, which is a very early-stage enterprise. Additionally, the service I offer is subject to the relative strength of the economy, so any downturn means less expendable income to spend on products and services.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your business. It seems silly, but get really crystal clear about the product and service you provide (and what you don't provide).
- Everything is a service. Even if you provide a product, you are always also providing a service. This is what it takes to achieve that competitive edge in the marketplace.
- Network. Find mentors, other small business owners, and professional associations who are there to guide and mentor you. Sometimes, these very same people will refer your service or hire you outright.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://groundedgardendesignseattle.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/grounded_garden_design/
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.
