Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Shannon Pruitt, founder of Shannon Pruitt & Co., located in Duncan, SC, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own a boutique web design, brand strategy, and content writing studio. We provide Squarespace web design, SEO-rich blog writing, and personality-packed email newsletter writing. We work with a variety of industries: creatives, non-profits, health and wellness brands, real estate agents, dentists, photographers, event planners, florists, beauty brands, and more. All of our customers are very passionate about what they do.
Tell us about yourself
This isn't the first business I've owned. I used to be a Wedding & Event Planner, planning and designing events for couples all across the Southeast US. I also have a background in design and writing. My husband and I were starting a family, and I couldn't be gone so many nights and weekends anymore, so I closed my Wedding Planning company. A few months later, this one was born. It's morphed into what it is today, but it allows me to work from home to spend more time with my family. That's my motivation and what's most important to me. So to be able to have a job that allows me the freedom and flexibility to spend time doing what matters most? It's incredibly motivating.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
The sheer fact that I can juggle all the many hats as an entrepreneur, wife, and mom is a huge accomplishment. It's not always perfect, but I'm always learning how to be better. I was also the Creative Director for several editorial photo shoots that have been published in various publications online. I'm always proud of those.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Turning off my brain. It's hard to shut it down because I'm constantly thinking about what I can do better, what needs to be done, or other ideas to implement. Sometimes I think my brain is a little hamster wheel that's constantly moving. Even if I'm not "working"... even if I'm lying in bed at night... there are many times I'm still thinking of business ideas. I know I need to rest, but sometimes it's just hard to stop.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Just do it. You're going to have to figure some things out along the way, but if you don't start now, you may not ever start.
- Find a mentor. Find someone whose values align with yours. Someone with expertise and who's willing to share their knowledge and lessons with you.
- Give yourself grace. You're going to mess up. You're going to make mistakes. Admitting that ahead of time and having the integrity to do the right thing when you make mistakes is going to take you further.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.shannonpruittandco.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shannonpruittandco
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shannonpruittandco/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonroyalpruitt/
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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