Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in personalized gifts but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Maddy Hill, owner of Winnie and Me, located in Avalon, CA, USA.

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

Winnie and Me is a small business that offers accessories and personalized gifts. The most important aspect of Winnie and Me is that everything you see is handmade!

Tell us about yourself

I started my small business in January 2021 after being laid off due to COVID-19. I wanted to offer products that combine my two loves: crafting and gift-giving. During the pandemic, it was difficult to attend birthday parties and celebrate the holidays, so I wanted to offer gifts that could be sent straight to the recipient that were ready to give. With that goal in mind, Winnie and Me was born.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment as a small business owner has been reaching 1,000 sales on Etsy in a little over a year.

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

One of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is learning the work and life balance. It can be so hard sometimes juggling your small business, social events, and your regular 9-5. On top of this, I also am earning my bachelor's degree. I found that keeping a to-do list and short-term goals helped me the most as a young entrepreneur.

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

Have patience, learn the ins and outs of SEO, and don't be afraid to put yourself out there. A lot of first-time business owners sometimes forget that growing a successful business takes time; it is not a marathon but a steady jog! This is probably the reason why almost 20% of small businesses fail during the first year. I also believe it is important not to compare the growth of other businesses to your own business's growth.

The biggest factor in Winnie and Me's growth was S.E.O (Search Engine Optimization). No matter what platform your business is on, SEO is key to your small business's growth. While learning the ins and outs of SEO may take some time, it pays off in the long term. Lastly, don't be afraid to put yourself out there. So many business owners feel anxious and embarrassed when they share their small business with their family and friends. However, sharing my small business with my family and friends was the best decision I made. When times got tough, I always had my circle to lean on.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

The most important thing to remember as an entrepreneur is not to give up! You got this.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://shopwinnieandme.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopwinnieandme/

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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