Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in design services but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Jack Muldowney, Founder of Studio Malt, located in Chicago, IL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Malt is a Chicago-based design studio specializing in thoughtful and responsible branding, packaging, and illustration. We strive to create purposeful solutions while embracing environmental and social responsibility in everything we do and partner with like-minded collaborators.
Tell us about yourself
I've always been a creative type – so falling into graphic design and illustration felt like a natural progression. After several years working at agencies and studios in Chicago, all the while maintaining a healthy freelance business, I decided to take the leap into managing my own practice full-time. I genuinely love the work I do, and I am one of those weird people who enjoy Monday mornings. I get excited about 'what's next' with each project I work on and thoroughly enjoy collaborating with like-minded clients.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is hitting the decade mark as a design practice, which happened in 2022. Existing in a field with so much uncertainty from year to year and even day to day, I am proud to have passed 10 years in business.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
The uncertainty and the discipline. While I have always been a fairly disciplined and organized person, it can sometimes be a challenge wearing all of the hats in the business–from research to concepting, to design, to project management, to production and new business...etc. It's a lot at times, but it is equally rewarding.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Stay disciplined, find your balance, and only take on the work you love.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://studiomalt.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studiomalt/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/studiomalt
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmuldowney/
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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