Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and design but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Melanie Lüle, Founder & Artist of MÉLÉ – art & design, located in Munich, Bavaria, Germany.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I'm a freelance artist and graphic designer. I specialize mainly in art licensing. I also offer brands "social media content creation" and "brand design." I offer art licensing for companies. And I also have my art shops at Society6 and at RedBubble. Where you can purchase my artwork directly, you can choose your favorite artwork in my shops and have it printed on a wide variety of products such as framed artwork or posters and also other products like t-shirts, mugs, phone cases, tote bags, backpacks, stickers, magnets, blankets, and so many more options. Every purchase supports me as an artist.
My customers are very diverse in age and gender. They are mostly looking for something to beautify their home or to treat themselves to something nice. They are also looking for a unique gift for friends and family. But what they all have in common is a love of art and unique products. Follow me on Instagram where I post all of my artwork. You will find all links in my Instagram bio. And direct shop links to every artwork in my Instagram "Art" highlight stories.
Tell us about yourself
I'm Melanie, the founder of the brand "MÉLÉ – art & design. I am an artist and graphic designer from Munich (Germany), where I also studied graphic design in 2009. In 2021 I started my own creative company after years of struggling working different jobs. I never felt a sense of belonging. But I always knew I wanted to do something with art. But I never dared to start my own business. Until one day, I had enough. And started taking it seriously! I did a lot of research and created a professional business plan, and defined everything. And I stuck to this plan. The business plan and preparation for everything took me two whole years! I'm so happy today that I finally dared to do it.
Every beginning is difficult! The way here, when starting my business, has not always been easy for me. But I wouldn't change that for any price in the world. My experiences have made me who I am today. And as of now, I am still in the beginning, and I finally feel like I have found my purpose and true passion for my life! My creative work is my biggest passion and motivates me every single day!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is that I dared to start it and took it seriously! I had many, many obstacles to overcome! It wasn't easy! But I'm proud of myself for not giving up. Every time there was an obstacle, it looked like there was no solution. I trained myself to think differently. Because there is always a way, I just haven't found it yet. The only limitation is your mind! That's one of the biggest lessons so far for me in my life overall! It doesn't matter when you start living your dream life! It matters that you will start!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Since I'm working from home, I had to learn how to set my own schedule and stick to it. The balance between work and life is important.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Know your passion, talent, or what you're good at, and start researching business concepts. Then find your specific niche.
- Write your own business plan. Take classes. Do your research. Stick to the plan, but also be flexible enough to adapt to changes.
- Know your worth as an artist, and don't undercharge yourself! Be confident!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.mele-artanddesign.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meleartanddesign
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mele_artanddesign
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mele-artanddesign
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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