Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in interior design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Wence Wong, owner and principal designer of House of Devon, located in Toronto, ON, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own an interior design firm that focuses on residential and commercial projects. My customers are everyday people who want to add a little oomph to their home but don't know where to start or need a little help and guidance, to people who have their own ideas but need someone who can put it all together and lastly, local business owners who need design assistance with their retail storefront. I offer services anywhere from home styling to full custom home renovations.
Tell us about yourself
Coming from a family of realtors, I always knew I was destined to work in the real estate industry in some way, shape, or form. Whenever I would help out with open houses, I always paid attention to small details of the home designs and had a passion for interiors. I wanted to set my own path and become a designer one day. During my undergrad, I secured a job at TD bank. I spent the next eight years working in banking, feeling a sense of financial security and entitlement working for one of the largest banking intuitions in Canada, but I was not happy. As I was approaching 30, I took the time to re-evaluate my life choices and made the decision to leave the bank and pursue my passion, and I haven't looked back since. I had the opportunity to work for two well-known design firms. I knew the ins and out's of the industry and decided to start my own firm after I realized I spent more and more of my free time working on my own projects. Having my clients trust in me and my designs and seeing the look on their faces after they see the final reveal is what really motivates me each and every day to do what I do and love.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is having repeated clients. Past clients of mine reach out to me, looking for my help with their next project or property, or they refer me to their friends and family. It shows that they've had a pleasant experience with me and really trust my work.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Having to be a jack of all trades and take care of every aspect of your business. I love to style and design, but it takes motivation to concentrate on other parts of your business, such as managing your portfolio and staff and overseeing the marketing, accounting, sales, etc.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Every setback is a setup for a comeback.
- Don't tell anyone what you are doing until it's done. Outside energy can throw off your goals.
- Once you pursue your passion and do what you love, it will not feel like work. That move you are scared to make might be the game changer!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.houseofdevon.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/houseofdevoninteriors/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/houseofdevoninteriors/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
Feel inspired to start, run or grow your own subscription business? Check out subkit.com and learn how you can turn "one day" into day one.