Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Alexis Chng-Castor, Owner and CEO of Hope By Design, located in Reston, VA, USA.

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

We're a full-service boutique creative agency that seeks to inspire hope in others through thoughtful, experiential, and visually moving designs. We believe that design has the power to create explosive change, improve lives and bring light to communities. Thus, we love to work with non-profit organizations, associations, and small- to medium-sized for-profit businesses and startups to build their brand stories and visual libraries.

Our existing clientele comes from all industries, e.g., charities, technology, medical, retail, and publishing. You inspire us. Consider us as your committed partner to bring your brand vision and powerful messages to life. Together, let's make meaningful change a reality.

Tell us about yourself

Hope by Design started as a passion pursuit. Gradually, it developed into a mission to use design to impact change and improve lives. Knowing that I will be leaving a legacy for my son motivates me every day to keep doing what I do.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is helping my clients see the value of design in driving marketing goals. Design, when done right, has the ability to influence customers' perceptions of the brand. When clients are able to move beyond the "making a collateral pretty" dialogue and become strategic design partners, that is success to me.

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

One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is carving out time and space for yourself to renew your energy and vision. It is easy to lose yourself in daily operations and forget your business vision.

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

  1. It's not always about acquisition; retention matters too. While building your lead generation funnel is important, I think having a strong retention strategy for your existing clientele is just as important. These are clients who have already experienced your services and/or products. Be on a constant lookout for how you can add value to your existing partners. Their opportunities and/or challenges can be your opportunities for growth.
  2. Be deliberate in setting aside time to recharge. This step prevents burnout. Whether it is indulging in your favorite craft hobby, going for a hike, etc., you need to take care of your mental and physical health.
  3. Don't be afraid to say 'no.' Not all clients that come your way are your ideal clients. When a client is unsuitable, it is okay to refer them to another agency/contractor (great for building relationships)—finding the right client where both of your brand values align contributes to the start of a successful long-term relationship.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.hopebdesign.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexis-hopebydesign/

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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