Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in clothing but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Maria Benjamin, Owner of TIYS LLC., located in Jacksonville, FL, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own and operate a beach-inspired clothing brand as well as an exclusive brand in Florida. My customers are those who live and breathe the beach lifestyle. They are the ones who live steps from the ocean as well as the ones who have to take the plane and schedule a flight to feel the salty mist in the air.
Tell us about yourself
We often move, being a military family. I found that I could never really establish myself in a career, having to uproot frequently. I've worked in the beauty, wedding, and retail industries and wanted something I could take with me. It wasn't until our move to Hawaii that I was introduced to small businesses for the first time. I had seen them in the past, but it wasn't in a way that empowered and creatively showcased local entrepreneurs. I admired their talent but found that something was missing in the local community, and to me, that was simple clothing.
I actually started off making beach signs and opened up an Esty shop, but that wasn't very successful. Then I stumbled across screen printing and bought myself one! That press sat in the corner on the ground for about a year before I even used it. My supporters are what motivate me. It's surreal to know that some of my best customers have been with me for the last 5 years when I had no idea what I was doing. I still like to think I'm just winging this whole thing!
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I could easily steer my accomplishments towards the financial aspect of it all, but the accomplishment I pride myself the most on is the ability to operate from home and be with my 2-year-old son. Before I took this leap of faith, I was working at a pace that didn't allow me to spend any time at home with my husband. I was able to make adjustments to that workflow when we moved to Hawaii, but I still felt that work was my first priority and that it needed to change. This ability that has been given to me is not something everyone gets to enjoy, so I treasure it as best as I can.
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
Time management. Even though I can work from home, it's so easy to get sucked into the everyday to-do list. Priorities can often get jumbled, which can result in a loss of structure. Realizing that a day only consists of 24 hours and is in place for a reason is an important thing to remember! I've tried multiple times to cram as much as I can into my day. It drained me and stripped the passion I had for my business.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
- Don't convince yourself not to start. Have confidence in yourself and understand that you will be learning every day. Expect to mess up over and over, but keep going.
- Find something that will make you stand out from others. People want to be convinced to be invested in your product or service. It's a constant sales pitch, and you need to be ready to give it your all 100% of the time.
- Keep track of everything! Some kind of system should be in place to keep track of your sales, inventory, spending, profits, etc. This will no doubt help you grow and make proper adjustments to your strategy.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.shoptiys.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tiysclothing
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiysclothing/
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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