Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and crafts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with James Stone, owner of Stone and Glass, located in Escondido, CA, USA.

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

My business is to entertain my customers and make beautiful glass objects as an artifact of the performance. My Patrons enjoy the performance, and the beautiful artwork inspires them forever. A client recently said that visiting Stone and Glass is a bit like getting a tattoo; you know you will be back for more.

Tell us about yourself

I have a long history with glass and creating. I have been addicted to fire from a very young age. At age 13, I set my school desk on fire. The only place I feel like I am right in front of the furnace.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

In more than 20 years in business, our loyal supporters have seen us through economic downturns, a fire that shut us down for months, and a pandemic. Through all this, we were able to adjust our business and offerings to remain relevant and continue to grow.

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

By far, the hardest thing is dreaming up viable ideas and having the skill, time, and resources to bring ideas to life. Then finding just the right person to fall in love with and give my creation a forever home.

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

  1. Understand your market.
  2. Be active in your community.
  3. Stay in touch with your clients and patrons.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Glass is magic. Glass was first used 6000 years ago. To be privileged enough to work full-time as a glass artist is a powerful blessing.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://stoneandglass.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stoneandglassSanDiego
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stoneandglasssd/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/stoneandglasssd
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stone-and-glass/

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.

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