Unsophisticater Studios - Sophie

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in body art but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sophie, Founder of Unsophisticater Studios, located in Nashville, TN, USA.

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

My business began in 2017 when I decided to start selling prints of my artwork. Since then, it has grown so much and allowed me the opportunity to begin my career as a tattoo artist and open my own private studio! My customers usually are bright and creative, too, and enjoy colorful art with meaning.

Tell us about yourself

I was in college for graphic design & digital marketing and was taking a watercolor class for my minor in art studio when I first began taking my art “seriously.” I was really enjoying the class and liked the way a lot of my pieces were coming out, so I decided to start selling prints of my work. After receiving a great response from my family & friends, and peers online, I branched out to make prints of my digital artwork as well. Then, oil and acrylic paintings, too. I always received such strong support and love from my online community that it really kept me pushing! Honestly, the ability to be creative every day is what motivates me to do what I do, in the hopes of being able to share it with as many people as I can.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

I would say that my biggest accomplishment as a business owner is going from selling 3-5 prints out of my apartment in college to growing enough to be able to have now a studio where I create, print, package & ship all of my artwork.

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

One of the most challenging things about being a business owner is that it is a 24/7 commitment. Even when I’m not creating new artwork, I still have to take time to answer emails, make prints, stickers, merch, etc., package everything and get it to the post office in a timely manner, book new clients, and run all of my social media pages. It really is a full-time job. My days don’t start at nine and end at five like most people because it is totally around the clock at all times, but it really is a great challenge to have.

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

1. If you’re looking to start a business today, just know that it is all a process. I feel like a lot of times, you hear people say to quit your day job & just go for it. I would say that keeping your job until you’re able to support yourself from your own business fully is important. When I began, I was working full-time, and my business was more of a side hustle. It really takes commitment, time and patience, and believing in yourself.
2. You don’t have to have an abundance of products to get customers. Connecting with your audience genuinely is how you create a following that you care about and who cares about you too! If you focus on quality over quantity, people will notice. My first website only had 3-5 different prints to choose from, but I made sure they were the highest quality I could get and wrote a handwritten note to everyone who ordered from me. Now, I’ve had the opportunity to put my art on tapestries, woven blankets, posters, stickers, phone cases, tee shirts & hoodies, and even more items I can’t even think of right now. Just make sure your products are something that you would want to receive as a gift - and keep - and that they’re something you’re truly proud of.
3. Be sure you’re taking time for yourself. It’s easy to get burnt out when you’re working yourself around the clock, and burnout isn’t a great feeling when your business is something you’re truly passionate about!

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.unsophisticater.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unsophisticater/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/unsophisticater

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.

Turn your craft into recurring revenue with Subkit. Start your subscription offering in minutes and supercharge it with growth levers. Get early access here.