Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Leonard Underwood, owner of Upscale Socks & Underwood Photography, located in Springfield, MA, USA.

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

Upscale Socks is my sock line. The customer has been primarily women of a certain age who is shopping for the men in their life. There is also a large percentage of men who support it.

Underwood Photography has been my photography business for 18 years. I do quite a bit of corporate and non-profit photography, along with weddings, events, headshots, and photoshoots. Clients can also rent equipment such as projectors and screens, as well as a photo booth and 360 video booth.

Tell us about yourself

Upscale Socks started off when I had a dream in 2014 one night. I woke up and told a friend about it but didn't actually begin the process of embarking on the business until the following year. It required a lot of knowledge which I did not have at the time since I had never worked in retail before. Upscale Socks was officially birthed in December 2016.

Underwood Photography was officially launched in November 2004 once I booked my first wedding. Prior to that, I treated photography as a hobby, as my family told me to get a "real" job.

I am motivated by all of the possibilities that I see in business on a daily basis. God gives me the motivation I need as well in order to have vision and provision to do the work I am called to do.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

One accomplishment that stands out is being able to travel and provide photography all over the world, and for Upscale Socks, being featured in numerous print articles, both local and national.

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

For some, it could be staying committed, consistent, and driven no matter what happens. There may be times when there are limited resources coming in, but you remain steadfast, especially if you believe in what you're called to do.

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

  1. Don't depend on those that you know to automatically support your business. Support comes from those you least expect sometimes.
  2. Take your time and enjoy the ride to success. No need to be anxious and start comparing yourself to other businesses.
  3. Again, consistency is key. Consistent with your posts/marketing, consistent with the quality of your product, consistent with your growth, to name a few.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

If necessary, seek out a business mentor or consultant. Also, network in person. It helps with your interpersonal skills, and you'd be surprised by the connections that are made. Join professional organizations, volunteer, and give back to the local community if at all possible. A little goes a long way.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website:
https://www.underwoodphoto.net/
https://www.upscalesocks.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/upscalesocks
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/upscale_socks/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/upscale_socks
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonard-underwood-mpa-467784ba/

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.