Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Laura Woolner, Founder of L.N. Studios, located in Woodstock, ON, CA.

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

L.N. Studios is a design and marketing company that partners with beauty, lifestyle, and wellness businesses to create impactful content. I work with new businesses looking to develop their branding and established businesses ready to attract their ideal customer through inspired marketing. Many businesses don't have the budget or resources to hire full-time marketing or design professionals, so I fill that gap for them. Business owners should be able to focus on running their company instead of worrying about whether their branding and messaging are good enough; that's my job.

Tell us about yourself

Originally from the U.K., I moved to Canada in 2012 and worked full-time with local beauty companies while freelancing on the side. In 2021 I was laid off due to budget cuts and decided I would take my side-hustle full time. I was very fortunate to have made some great connections in the industry and was able to bring them on as my own clients. I was hesitant to work for myself. I honestly didn't think I ever wanted to, but since making the change, I've really enjoyed being my own boss! I love meeting new people from all over the world (thank you, internet), I thrive in story-telling, and I get to do something I'm passionate about every day. I'm very lucky.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is that 80% of my new clients come from referrals. Having other people speak so highly of you and go as far as recommending you to their friends/fellow industry professionals tells me I must be doing something right! I give everything I have to my clients and go above and beyond to deliver exactly what they need, so to have that recognized is something I'm very proud of

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

When I transitioned into being self-employed, I struggled with not having teammates to bounce ideas off anymore. I used to run a team of about five designers in my previous role, so I was used to the constant chatter and feedback. Design and marketing is a collaborative and creative endeavor, so it's always nice to have another person for a second opinion before presenting ideas to your client. Working for yourself and at home can be a little isolating, and that's been the hardest part of my job.

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

I'm quite a practical person, so my first piece of advice would be to have enough savings to cover your monthly expenses for 3-4 months. It takes time to get established, and worrying about finances will only add to that stress! My second piece of advice would be to stay open-minded. As mentioned before, I didn't expect to work for myself, but the universe had other ideas, and once I was laid off, I knew that was my push to go out on my own. Sometimes things have a way of working themselves out. My last piece of advice is to make friends with other people in your industry. You'll likely make a few mistakes as your business grows, and having a support network will help you navigate the bumps along the way.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.lnstudios.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/l.n.studios/

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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