Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kiki Lally, owner of Pinnovate DIY Studio, located in Calgary, AB, Canada.

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

We are Canada's first DIY craft and art studio and offer in-house art programs for all ages. Through the COVID 19 shutdown our studio faced, we also began to ship DIY to-go kits across North America. Our DIY Delivery service is now a subsidiary business. All kits are branded and include step-by-step instructions, materials, and YouTube tutorials for all ages to get creative in the comfort of their homes!

Tell us about yourself

As a mother and art lover, I was always looking for something fun to do with my little ones. Pinnovate came from the idea of having a creative, joyful space in our community that would bring creative kids together to learn and explore. Having a "job" you love makes it easy to stay motivated through this last few years, and being surrounded by an incredible community definitely helps!

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

We have survived through the last five years and faced extreme challenges, including a big local recession and multiple COVID 19 shutdowns in our space over the past two years. Creating our DIY Delivery business is a huge accomplishment. Our team is very proud of continuing to grow through this time.

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

Constantly moving, pivoting, learning, and my team's livelihood responsibilities weigh on me.

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

Do your research, take chances, and be ready for the long haul.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

I am so grateful for the many gifts and opportunities which our business has brought into my life. The ability to give back and make a contribution to so many local charities in our community makes any business hardships worthwhile.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://pinnovate.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pinnovateyyc/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pinnovate/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/pinnovateyyc
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinnovate-diy-studio/

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.