Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Valerie Spellman, Owner of Painted Light Stained Glass, located in Omaha, NE, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
I own a stained glass studio called Painted Light Stained Glass. I specialize in custom stained glass windows for homes and businesses. My primary customers are homeowners. I also do a fair bit of restoration. I have a retail section of my studio where I sell fused and stained glass suncatchers, hanging stained glass windows, picture frames, and fused glass millefiori jewelry.
Tell us about yourself
I have always been interested in art and, just by chance, took a stained glass class in 1993 when I was living in Tucson, AZ. Since then, I have never stopped working with stained glass. It is truly a passion of mine. The chance to create custom, one-of-a-kind windows for my clients is a big motivation. I love the feeling of successfully installing a window in someone's home that I've come to know and adding beauty to their homes and lives. The glass material itself is also hugely motivating for me. Glass truly has a magical quality - changing with the light conditions and the space it's in.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
I think being in business for nearly 25 years is a big accomplishment!
What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?
For me, one of the hardest things is managing my time. I've learned, though, that having some free time each day is super important for the creative process. I always give myself at least 2 hours in the morning to exercise, meditate, and journal. Those are the times when I'm most open to new creative ideas. It's sometimes challenging to keep that time open, but I've come to realize how ultimately, it makes me more productive.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Do what you love. Do a business plan before starting your business. Spend time each day with a project planner to help organize your work projects and calendar. I am much more efficient when I keep on top of that.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://paintedlightglass.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/paintedlightglass
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paintedlightglass/
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