Classic, Timeless and Functional

Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Diana Arenas, Founder of York and Grace, located in Winston Salem, NC, USA.

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

York and Grace is a collection of Handbags and accessories such as wallets, cosmetic pouches, and jewelry. Our style is classic and timeless, offering silhouettes, colors, and textures that appeal to the person looking for functionality and organization but still look fashionable and elegant.

Tell us about yourself

For decades I worked in the fashion industry for amazing brands, both small and global. My work has taken me to over 25 countries meeting amazing people and experiencing beautiful cultures. As someone often on the go and carrying lots of stuff, I felt I was always looking to find the perfect tote to carry my stuff, a bag that was classic so it would compliment outfits/styles and yet lightweight and functional with lots of pockets. Then I decided to stop looking, and instead, I designed and produced the pieces that would fill this need and decided to share them with the world.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is launching a brand to the world. As a solopreneur, I had the responsibility to create not only the product but also the infrastructure to run a business, such as a website, and social media, be the voice of my brand and connect with customers and retailers.

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

Keeping up with marketing efforts. Today's landscape has evolved and changed a lot; now, prioritizing social media as a way to connect with potential customers is a must. But it's very time-consuming to create content and to learn to navigate the algorithms of platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and now TikTok.

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

Research and study the product/category you are looking to be in. Understand the landscape, competition, customers, requirements, and regulations and have a clear roadmap, so your time and efforts are working towards your desired end goal.
Learn, keep learning, and evolve. Invest in education and support to help you better understand the environment you are looking to be in. Seek out mentors who have achieved what you a hoping to achieve yourself. An Audible membership will become one of your best investments.
Start small, especially if your business will require a financial investment in a physical product. Start with small quantities until you have validated that there is demand for your product in the market.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.yorkandgrace.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yorkandgrace
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yorkandgrace/

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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