Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Claire Vandervoort, Founder of Voort Studio, located in Los Angeles, CA, USA.

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

Voort Studio is a fashion label that combines the timeless elegance from my Belgian roots with the effortless attitudes of the Californian West Coast. Our customers are individuals that seek pieces that are elegant, effortless, and infatuating - like a classic handbag with a modern twist!

Tell us about yourself

I've always loved fashion, I grew up creating outfits for my dolls out of napkins and cellar tape, but I never thought I 'had what it takes' to pursue a career in it. It wasn't until the pandemic that I realized that only I was standing in the way of my dream job and that if I wanted to achieve it, I'd need to start now. So I did, and I have been so grateful of that decision ever since.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Starting a business comes with so many fun and notable accomplishments, but my favorite one will always be people's reactions to my designs.

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

The uncertainty of... everything! As a business owner, you are in control of everything, which sometimes means you're not in control of anything. I will also say that it's a double-edged sword because uncertainty comes with a lot of benefits, such as being in charge of my own schedule, deadlines, and success. Having my career and success in my own hands makes the hard times worth it two-fold!

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

My biggest tip is, rather than telling you to 'just start,' I invite you to picture your dream entrepreneurial life. Now, work back on the steps needed to achieve that dream life. Chances are that if you work back the steps you need to accomplish in order to get where you want to be, you'll need to start now. That's your motivation to start! My second tip is to trust yourself. No one knows your vision better than you can. Lastly, remember that you're always in control. Whatever happens, when running a business, you are always the one in the driver's seat, deciding what to do next.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://voortstudio.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/voortstudio/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/voortstudio
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/voort-studio/

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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