So much can happen in ten years.
Ten years ago this month, I obtained my business license to start my own company – to hang up my own shingle, as it is said. I had entrepreneurship in my genes, but I never seriously considered the idea until I was practically forced into it that tumultuous year.
2007 was the beginning of the great recession and the beginning of my new life. I was a newlywed, and had been working in the thriving model home industry for several years before it came to a screeching halt. Massive downsizing had begun throughout my industry, and in the midst of this – having been laid off 3 times in 18 months – working for myself became more and more attractive.
RWD had a very slow beginning, which was to be expected given the state of the economy. I was still working part time for other firms, but this allowed me time to learn how to run a business, network, market, and try on all of the other hats a business owner has to wear. Experience is the best teacher, and I had plenty on this new journey, dealing with unhappy clients, surly contractors, difficult vendors, scammy marketers, changing business models, and shifting company structures.
Now that my company is enjoying constant growth and continued success, I do not hesitate to share my experiences, giving the honest truth to any interested student or beginning designer. Seriously, I could write a book to advise on what works/doesn’t work in the business of design. But day in and day out, I have never regretted the decision I made ten years ago to start my company.
I am blessed to be able to practice my passion every day, bringing purpose, beauty and inspiration into my clients’ lives and homes. I am looking forward to seeing what the next ten years bring!
