Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in education but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Mindy Smith, Owner of Lavender’s Bleu Reading Tutoring Center, located in Tulsa, OK, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We work with students, pre-K through grade 12, who struggle with or need enrichment in literacy. Our mission is to support and empower our students to develop as readers by providing positive and accessible instruction. Our services are designed to meet your student’s needs, building on and extending your student’s current skills, interests, and knowledge.
Tell us about yourself
I have always had a passion for instilling a love of reading in children and adults over my 35+ years in education. I received my BS in Elementary Education from the University of Tulsa, my Master’s Degree in Reading Education from Northeastern State University, and my Doctorate in Curriculum Instruction/Educational Leadership with an emphasis on Reading from Oklahoma State University.
Over the course of my career, I have worked with students of all ages, starting as a primary grade teacher, then a reading specialist, district reading teacher trainer, and then moving on to higher education, teaching reading education courses at NSU for the last 15 years of my teaching career.
This desire to make books come alive, instill a love of reading, and help struggling readers was the motivation behind opening Lavender’s Bleu Children’s Bookstore and Reading Tutoring Center in 2018. However, after 3 years, the tutoring center had outgrown the space. The need for expansion led to the move to our new Reading Tutoring Center in November 2021. It truly is my dream come true to get to help so many children to become successful, engaged readers!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
To date, we have worked with and seen amazing success in over 200 students! To see the pride and confidence and new love for reading they gain after working with my amazing Reading Specialists is why I do what I do! We have been named Family Favorite Tutoring by Tulsa Kids Magazine for the last 2 years.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
In my case, it’s trying to make a profit! I want to pay my tutors well and make the service affordable for families. It’s a challenge.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Do your homework! Meet with successful business owners in similar businesses to learn what works and what doesn’t.
- Be realistic in your expectations of the time and money required to get started.
- Put your clients/needs first to ensure your success.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://lbliteracymarket.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lbliteracymarket
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lbliteracymarket/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-smith-09b67451/
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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