Explore Different Aspects of Human Emotion

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Veronica Longoria, Owner of V-ROC Studios, located in Houston, TX, USA.

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

I operate as an independent contractor in the “creative” business. I offer services in art, digital media, graphic design, video editing, and photography. The need for creativity and expertise is required by a variety of clientele. From fortune 500 corporations to small business owners interested in taking their marketing efforts to the next level or anyone looking to beautify their space with custom artwork or murals. As a creative, it is important for me to stay up-to-date on skills that expand into a variety of areas so that my offering is well-rounded and inclusive.

Key Clientele:

Hess Corporation
Enerflex Corporation
Exxon Corporation
Houston Independent School District

Tell us about yourself

I’ve been an artist since I could pick up a crayon and scribble on paper. I knew at an early age that I wanted to be creative. Whether it was in fashion design, interior design, graphic design, photography, or art, it didn’t matter; I dabbled in it all. I eventually got a degree in Digital Media Arts and Animation and went on to work in a fast-paced corporate environment for nearly a decade before going independent. I supposed it wasn’t by choice. I was laid off twice in two years, so, in a way, I was forced to make a pivotal decision: Whether I would start another job search or focus 100% of my efforts on my creative business. I figured I could give it my all for six months, and if I ran through my savings, I could always return to the workforce. That was in early 2018, and I haven’t looked back since.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Personally, my biggest accomplishment is the freedom to structure my work day. One of the things I hated as an employee was having to fight an hour of traffic to go sit in an office somewhere from 7:59 to 5:00 pm, then fight another hour of traffic on the way home. That type of day leaves you feeling drained, with little time for self-development or creativity. The ability to work for myself from the comfort of my home was a game changer for my mental well-being, as well as the quality of my work. There’s something about the wee hours of the night that makes my creativity come alive. Working for myself lets me take advantage of when my creativity natural flows.

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

Finding the time to keep my website and social media up-to-date and dealing with the seasonal lows. The obvious benefit to a steady job is a steady paycheck, but unfortunately, that’s never a guarantee when it’s your own business. I have to be smart with the way I manage my time and money to carry me through the slow times.

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

Stop procrastinating and start where you are right now.
Invest your time and money into your business.
Never stop improving yourself and your skill set. Technology is ever-evolving, and there is a literal race to stay relevant in a world where social media can make anyone a star. Do what you absolutely love, and give it your all.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.vrocstudios.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vrocstudios
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/v.roc_studios/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronica-longoria/

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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