Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Lisa Harrington, CEO of Mermaid Straw, located in Valparaiso, IN, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Mermaid Straw is a mission-based organization that focuses on the reduction of single-use plastic through fun and stylish reusable alternatives. Our Mermaids stretch the gamut from eco-warriors, lovers of our ASMR order packaging videos, and of course, those that enjoy quality, well-made reusable products.
Tell us about yourself
Believe it or not, I created Mermaid Straw from a dream! I have a chronic illness called POTS, and, unfortunately, I had to give up my real estate career. I knew I wanted to have a small business and contribute to something positive, but I had no idea how it would all come together. One fateful night I had a dream! I told my husband about it when I woke up and let him know I had already secured the social handles and domain name, all from bed. While my body has begun balancing since then, I keep the motivation going by remembering where I came from and the struggles I had to endure before this business. Reminiscing reminds me I can do hard things!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I would consider our tight community of supporters and followers to be our biggest accomplishment. Sure, money, sales, analytics, etc., are great, but the real and meaningful connections built have made every late-night and inevitable struggle worth it.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Finding the answers to things you've never even thought you'd need to learn is by far the hardest aspect of being a business owner. You have to look at every minute detail that was once taken for granted as a consumer. Google, Reddit, YouTube, and TikTok are our greatest teachers and have helped us propel our business forward.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- ADAPT! Adapt to new *everything* in this technology age.
- Find a way to be resilient. Business ebbs and flows, but it's important to go with the flow and withstand any storm.
- Listen to your customers! Every successful launch we've had has been a direct result of listening to our customer's wants, needs, and dislikes.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://mermaidstraw.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mermaidstraw
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mermaidstraw/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mermaid-straw/
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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