The hardest thing about being an entrepreneur...
A few years ago, I really struggled with being an solopreneur. Not just because it was isolating making handbags, but trying to sell them via cold calling and emails with lots of hang ups definitely posted its challenges. It was also the struggle of watching my friends, family, aquaintances and fellow small business owners NOT support my endeavor. It was silly to be upset. My handbags were pricey! Then there were the friends that would not share because ‘my vibe’ did not fit their IG aesthetic. I spiraled…often. I had thoughts of doubt and stress and y’all … the inner monologue in my head was not kind at all to the most important person involved…me.
Let’s be real.. I had a ton of support, awesome sales for my first year and I had financial help from a very special friend and my husband. I was extremely fortunate (still am!) and even more grateful for the opportunities I was granted. But stress is stress and between imposter syndrome and perfectionism, I was struggling HARD. I was reactive to the most minor things from ‘not interested’ from a store or waiting for a sale from someone that said they would purchase but never did. I took it all so personally. Do not even get me started on my toxic relationship with social media. It was not working for me or my business.
me in 2020/21? with one of my bags
I had just moved to Charleston from Texas(miss you FBG!), and I had an exciting outlook as the beach is my happy place and I had a few existing friends in the area I was looking forward to connecting with again. I reached out to my dear friend, Melissa and we had a fun evening catching up. We were both in various stages of growth and change so she was the perfect person to catch up with at the perfect time. After that dinner, we continued to hang out and progress individually but had incredible conversations that really propelled me towards my next steps. I do not think I have ever given Melissa the credit she deserves for the incredible support she gave me and she had no idea what those powerful conversations did to help me. So if you re reading this Melissa, thank you. If you are getting married and need the ultimate bridal hair experience - Melissa is it.
**Disclosure: Before I say anymore, I have been in and out of therapy for over 2 decades since I was a preteen during my parents divorce. I will also go back to therapy at times of need but I have also found allowing alternate routes have also helped me grow exponentially. This is not medical advice, just my personal journey.
At some point, I found Masha on Instagram (of all places). Masha is a nervous system and breathwork coach . You can follow her here. And let’s say Masha changed my life. I dealt with feelings, trauma and a plethora of other things I never even understood until I did. I have the knowledge and the tools and I feel all around just more confident, empowered and proud of me. I have altered my business a lot throughout this process as I have learned where my true passions really lie and what it is I want to do to make money but also what I want my passion and hobbies to look like. I still have my days of doubt but my conversations with myself look much different. I still have anxious moments, but I know what I need to do to get out of that space. I still struggle with overwhelm, but I know when to step away. Nervous system work and understanding my human design has really elevated me and my businesses.
unedited screen grab from a Rorin photoshoot in Feb ‘22 with the absolute best photographer Laura at LCS Studios (sorry Laura, I need to just buy this one from you haha) I am on the left, and Melissa with the hairspray on the right
Nothing in life is perfect and accepting that throughout this journey has been the hardest part. Nothing comes easy or so it feels but it doesn’t have to be hard either. I started out making handbags and trying to be a luxury handbag brand (handbags are now back to being custom only) and now I am a creative director, photographer, graphic and web designer for small businesses as well as a handbag artist. Learning what brings me joy while understanding not every job will be a glamorous project. Accepting each aspect of business as it comes with its ups and downs and embracing each client knowing some will be amazing, others - not so much. I am just so happy to be here through the good, the bad, and the fucking insanity that is entrepreneurship. I LOVE IT.
me in Feb 2023 shot by Laura at LCS Studios (again!)
If you are still here, please know I am incredibly grateful for your support, love and encouragement. Thank you.
xx, Erin
