Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Marcia Antle, founder of The Painted Mango Decor Shop, located in Carbonear, NL, Canada.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
We are a family-run business located in the historic downtown area of Carbonear that offers beautiful home decor and gifts. We service local customers, as well as those who make the drive-in from St. John’s, CBS, and outside areas to find the perfect item for their home!
Tell us about yourself
We moved to Newfoundland from Ontario nine years ago and originally worked in St. John’s. It wasn’t long before the commute became a hassle. I realized there was a need for a home decor shop in the area, and since I’ve always loved the home decor, I decided to open the shop. We’ve been in business for almost seven years now!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
We pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service, so the biggest accomplishment as a business owner is to see happy customers leave the shop and hear the positive feedback they provide. We have also won the General Business Of Distinction Award for 2020 from the CBDC.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing in being a business owner is knowing when to “shut things off” and turn your attention to family matters. Finding work/family balance is hard sometimes. Social media has changed a lot since we opened, so keeping on top of it is a challenge.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Make sure you provide a service that is needed, surround yourself with people who support you, and be ready to stumble and fall…but you’ll get up again. And always be ready to pivot; COVID has taught us all that.
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
Being an entrepreneur is one of the hardest jobs that I’ve ever had, but also one of the most rewarding. Find something you love to do, and take it one day at a time.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.thepaintedmangogiftsanddecor.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thepaintedmangodecorshop
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepaintedmangogiftsanddecor/
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.