Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jennifer Faye Colombo, an energy artist, creative guide, and card deck and journal creator, based in Norwalk, CT, USA.

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

I provide soul-nourishing art experiences through guided creative explorations and commissioned artwork. The creative explorers I guide have varying degrees of art experience, from none to professional and everywhere in between. What they all have in common is a desire to do something that is relaxing and fun while getting into the creative flow. It is one of my greatest joys to witness and empower others to tap into their creativity.

Additionally, I create journals and card decks for entrepreneurs allowing them to have their own unique support tools for their clients. It is a fun co-creation process, and I love hearing how much they and their clients love the journal or cards.

Tell us about yourself

It's been a journey, and I originally never intended to own my own business. My past experiences as a scenic designer in the entertainment business, along with other jobs and life experiences, led to combining all the skillsets I gained into the business I have now. I never set out to create my own business; it sort of happened slowly as I followed one breadcrumb of opportunity and possibility to another. All of a sudden, I had my own business, and I love it now, but I first had to say yes and fully embrace the idea. Of course, it has evolved and changed over time, and I am sure it will continue to do so.

I am motivated by my wonderful clients, and I adore co-creating with them. Additionally, I am motivated by the freedom I have to create offers I love, taking something from idea to reality and being able to evolve in ways that feel good to me. I have always loved learning, which is super helpful and motivating as a business owner, especially when I need to fill in the gaps of things that I don't know or are not my strengths.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Making an impact in other people's lives, and I get to do that in various ways every day. The other was figuring out how to create products all on my own (I didn't find a class at the time, though they exist now). There is something so satisfying about holding a journal or deck in my hands for the first time that I have created for myself or for a client. Being able to take an idea, go through the creation process and birth it into reality will never get old.

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

This is such a great question. I would have to say, not quitting, lol! There have been days when I have questioned myself, wondered if this is possible, and thought about going back to a job and a hundred more thoughts that can run through my head. When this happens, I go back to remembering that I love what I do, I am still learning and growing, I evolve through things that don't work out as I planned, I remind myself that growing a business takes time, and I look back at all I have accomplished and celebrate those wins. And then, I keep going.

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

  1. Surround yourself with the right support, whether that is a business bestie, a community, or a coach. Having a strong support system to encourage you, brainstorm and problem solve with you, and celebrate with you is key during the roller coaster you can experience as a business owner. In the beginning, I did not always find the right support. So if that happens to you, it's ok, pivot and shift as needed until you find the right fit.
  2. Prioritize your goals/task lists and be realistic about what you can accomplish in a period of time. I was not always good about this and would put way too many things on my lists, causing overwhelm and sometimes procrastination on an impossible list. So if this happens to you in the beginning, give yourself some grace and adjust. I also love having an accountability buddy to check in with to help me achieve my goals.
  3. Make time for yourself by adding it to your schedule to prevent burnout! This has been key for me and has greatly improved my productivity. It will look different for me pending on the day and can include things like meditation, walking in nature, creating for my own joy, snuggling the dog, journaling, pulling affirmation cards, or having a cup of tea while listening to something inspirational.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.jencolombo.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jenniferfayecolomboart
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenfayeart/

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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