Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Toni ODell, founder of The Cheerful Roost, located in San Antonio, TX, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
My handmade business focuses on home goods and gifts. I like to make things that are useful. I want to know that when someone reaches for something in their home that I made, they're not only supporting a small business, but they're truly enjoying their purchase and finding a purpose for it.
Tell us about yourself
My business started on 2 TV trays in an RV while traveling the US for my husband's job. I always loved to craft and create, and I was able to turn that focus into a successful small business. I've never been one to just sit. I have to stay busy. My mind is always going to try to come up with products that people want and also how to improve the products I already make. My motivation has always been to inspire my children and to make them proud. I want them to see that with a lot of heart and determination, you can pave your own way in this world.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My accomplishments happen at the craziest of times. Whether it's hitting a sales goal at a market, having the opportunity to showcase my business on TV, or meeting people in person that have been following my business on social media. I consider every accomplishment a big one.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing for me was to make a name for myself and grow my business in a brand new city. Starting your own business is hard to begin with, but to try to do so when you don't know anyone and have that support is super difficult.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First and foremost, know your worth. Know that your time and talent are valuable. Second, never stop dreaming. The day you find yourself just content with your business is the day you stop growing. Lastly, put yourself and your business out there. Go to the pop-up events, hustle your product into local shops, and keep posting on social media. At the end of the day, if you're not your own biggest cheerleader, no one else will be inspired to cheer for you as well.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://thecheerfulroost.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thecheerfulroost
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thecheerfulroost/
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.
