What’s your business growth opportunity for next year? Identify it. Now is the time. Q4 is upon us. Before we know it, it will be January 2025. So take the time now to really contemplate where you want to take your business next. Once you have that nailed down, you’ll have a clear place to steer yourself in Q1.

Your Growth Opportunity Is Not Swayed by Circumstances

Your business growth opportunity for next should be based on YOUR business. Not so much on outside forces happening in the world. Despite the economy. Or the uncertainty due to the election. Strong brands will survive and thrive in 2025. What makes you a strong brand?

Uncover Opportunities With Probing Questions

Ask yourself some of these questions when you review your business in Q4. These questions will help you determine your success for 2025 based on your successes in 2024.

1. Review your 2024 key clients or customers’ successes. Where have you seen the most business growth this past year?

Make a list. This will give you insight into where your business growth opportunity might be for next year. Looks for patterns and trends in your business’ success. You might just be getting started in some area of your business that will continue to pay off.

2. Is your team convicted that the brand is important?

Review your brand’s foundation. Is your brand strong? Does your leadership team articulate your brand clearly at every internal touchpoint? Your audience needs to be able to recognize you and count on you. They want to see you as the voice of authority, every time they turn to you for answers.

3. Are you communicating consistently?

Consistent communication is key to having a strong brand, and a strong presence in the marketplace. If you are not communicating clearly and consistently about your brand, you are diluting your brand and the competency of your organization.

4. Does your target care about what your brand stands for?

The stronger the emotional connection to your brand, the more likely the target will be predisposed to your organization. What were your successes with your audience this past year? Plan to do more of whatever that was.

Other questions to ask yourself about your business, looking for your business growth opportunities in 2025:

• Are you leveraging your senior team’s strengths?
• What are your strategies? Define these and then everything else should fall under that.
• What are your holes in marketing resources? What do you need help with?

Pro-Tips For Growth

Identifying your business growth opportunities is just your first step to a successful 2024. Reviewing 2024, there are areas where we see success for small to midsize businesses and nonprofits in 2025. Make sure you have this Pro-Tip list covered in Q4 this year, and follow the path to uncover your own insights and build your business in 2025. If you need help along the way, Front Porch has your back.

• Identify your growth opportunity.
• Make sure you have the team needed to realize your goals for your clients.
• Have a plan. Be focused. A marketing plan is important to maximize resources and reduce unneeded spend.
• Sharpen messaging. Review your message map. Make edits where necessary.
• Be strategic. Define strategies and then tactics that will help you accomplish the strategies.
• Remember, tactically, less is more.

In the dynamic world of business-to-business interactions, forging strong B2B partnerships is essential for long-term success and growth. These strategic alliances not only expand market reach but also foster innovation and mutual support. However, building strong B2B partnerships requires careful planning, effective communication, and a commitment to shared goals. Here are some key strategies that businesses can implement to cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships in the B2B landscape.

Establish Clear Objectives and Alignment in B2B Partnerships

At the core of any successful partnership lies a shared understanding of objectives and alignment of goals. Before embarking on a collaboration, take the time to define what success looks like for both parties. Clarify mutual expectations, identify common challenges, and outline how each partner can contribute to achieving shared objectives. For example, a technology company seeking to enhance its cybersecurity offerings may form a strategic alliance with a cybersecurity firm to jointly develop integrated solutions that address both data analysis and security concerns.

Foster Open and Transparent Communication

Effective communication is the cornerstone of any successful relationship, and B2B partnerships are no exception. Cultivate an environment of open dialogue and transparency, where both parties feel comfortable expressing their needs, concerns, and ideas. Regular check-ins, status updates, and feedback sessions help ensure that everyone remains on the same page throughout the partnership journey. For instance, a manufacturing company building strong relationships with suppliers ensures a steady supply of raw materials or components, fostering reliability and efficiency in the production process.

Prioritize Mutual Benefit and Value Creation for B2B Partnerships

Successful B2B partnerships are ones where both parties derive tangible value from the collaboration. Focus on identifying areas of mutual benefit and value creation, where each partner can leverage their strengths to achieve shared goals. Whether it’s access to new markets, innovative technologies, or complementary expertise, seek opportunities to create win-win scenarios that drive mutual growth and success. For example, a software company may partner with a network of resellers to distribute its products to different geographic regions or industries, expanding its market reach while providing the resellers with a lucrative revenue stream.

Invest in Relationship-Building and Trust

Building strong partnerships takes time and effort, and investing in relationship-building is essential for long-term success. Take the time to get to know your partner’s business, culture, and values, and foster personal connections with key stakeholders. Building trust is paramount, so be reliable, transparent, and honest in your interactions. Demonstrate a commitment to the partnership by following through on promises, addressing concerns promptly, and actively seeking ways to add value to your partner’s business. For instance, marketing and co-marketing partnerships allow businesses to collaborate on initiatives that amplify both parties’ reach and visibility, such as co-creating content or launching co-branded campaigns.

Embrace Collaboration and Adaptability in Your B2B Partnerships

Flexibility and adaptability are essential qualities for successful B2B partnerships. Embrace a spirit of collaboration and be open to exploring new ideas, strategies, and opportunities together. Remain agile in responding to changing market dynamics, evolving customer needs, and emerging industry trends. By fostering a culture of innovation and continuous improvement, you position your partnership for long-term relevance and resilience in the face of uncertainty. For example, companies often form partnerships to enhance their product offerings or expand into new markets, leveraging each other’s expertise to develop innovative solutions that address evolving customer demands.

Leverage Expertise Through Strategic Partnerships

Leveraging expertise through strategic partnerships can provide B2B companies with specialized skills and knowledge to enhance their offerings and market presence. Collaborating with a marketing firm, for example, can offer significant benefits for businesses looking to elevate their brand visibility, generate leads, and drive revenue growth. A B2B partnership with a marketing firm can provide access to a range of marketing services, including strategic planning, digital marketing, content creation, and campaign management. By tapping into the expertise of marketing professionals, B2B companies can develop tailored marketing strategies and tactics that resonate with their target audience and align with their business objectives.

For instance, a professional services company seeking to expand its market reach may partner with a marketing firm specializing in B2B lead generation and digital marketing. Through this partnership, the services company gains access to a team of marketing experts who can develop targeted campaigns, optimize online presence including SEO, and leverage data analytics to identify and nurture leads effectively. By outsourcing marketing efforts to a trusted partner, the services company can focus on core business operations while benefiting from the marketing firm’s industry knowledge, resources, and experience.

Cultivating Strong B2B Partnerships is a Win-Win

In the interconnected world of B2B commerce, building strong B2B partnerships is not just advantageous — it’s imperative for sustainable growth and competitiveness. By following these strategies and incorporating examples of specific partnership types, including collaborations with marketing firms, businesses can cultivate meaningful and enduring partnerships that drive mutual success. As you navigate the intricacies of B2B relationships, remember that the strength of your partnerships lies in your ability to collaborate, communicate, and innovate together.

Networking is perhaps an undervalued, but critically important aspect of marketing. In the world of marketing, staying ahead of trends, understanding emerging technologies, and leveraging innovative strategies are immensely important. However, amidst the whirlwind of digital campaigns, content creation, and market analysis, one fundamental aspect remains critically vital: networking. This week, as some of our team is attending the Marketing 2.0 Conference, let’s delve into the significance of networking within our industry, particularly through conferences and conventions. 

Networking is a Gateway to Opportunities 

Networking serves as a gateway to a multitude of opportunities; including partnerships, client leads, mentorship, and the exchange of ideas. More often than not, who you know can be as important as what you know. Creating meaningful connections can catapult your career and business to new heights. 

The Value of Face-to-Face Interactions 

While social media and digital platforms offer convenient ways to connect, they cannot always replicate the value of face-to-face interactions. Conferences and conventions provide a unique environment for marketers to engage in real-time conversations, offering a depth of communication that virtual encounters cannot match. The exchange of ideas, the use of body language and the immediate feedback of in-person discussions enrich the networking experience and can foster stronger, more meaningful connections. 

Networking Means Learning from the Best 

Attending conferences and conventions exposes you to impressive leaders and innovators in the marketing world. Keynote speeches, classes, and panel discussions provide exceptional insights and knowledge, highlighting cutting-edge trends that have yet to become mainstream. These learning opportunities not only inspire but also equip you with fresh ideas and approaches that can be applied to your own business. 

A Platform for Visibility 

Participating in these events offers an invaluable platform to raise your personal or brand’s visibility within the industry. Presenting a paper, leading a workshop, or simply engaging in discussions can position you as a thought leader. In turn this can open doors to media coverage, speaking opportunities, and collaborations. The exposure gained can significantly enhance your reputation and credibility among peers and potential clients. 

The Ripple Effect of Sharing 

One of the most underrated aspects of networking at conferences is the ripple effect it creates. Sharing your own experiences, challenges, and success stories not only contributes to the collective knowledge but also helps in creating meaningful connections. This mutual exchange fosters a sense of community and support within the industry. 

Looking Ahead 

As our team prepares to immerse ourselves in the upcoming Marketing 2.0 Conference, the focus extends beyond just attending. It’s about actively participating, engaging with new faces, and absorbing every bit of knowledge and insight available. The importance of networking in marketing cannot be overstated, and conferences and conventions represent a place for nurturing connections that could shape the future of your business. 

Trade shows and conferences offer invaluable opportunities for B2B businesses to network, showcase their offerings, and stay ahead of industry trends. However, to truly leverage these events for growth, it’s essential to have a strategic approach.

The Power of Face-to-Face Connections

In today’s digital age, the value of face-to-face interactions cannot be overstated. Trade shows and conferences provide a platform for B2B businesses to engage with industry peers, potential clients, and thought leaders in a dynamic and immersive setting. By capitalizing on these events strategically, businesses can foster relationships, generate leads, and ultimately drive growth.

1. Pre-Event Preparation: Setting the Stage for Success

Maximizing the impact of trade shows and conferences begins long before the event itself. Start by thoroughly researching the event agenda, exhibitors, competitors and attendees. Set clear objectives for your participation, whether it’s expanding your network, showcasing new products, or generating leads. Develop a compelling booth design and promotional materials that effectively communicate your brand message and offerings. Market your participation via email, social and your company’s website and blog.

2. Strategic Networking: Quality Over Quantity

While it may be tempting to collect as many business cards as possible, focusing on quality over quantity is key when it comes to networking at trade shows and conferences. Identify key stakeholders and decision-makers you want to connect with and prioritize meaningful interactions. Prepare an elevator pitch that succinctly communicates your value proposition and be genuinely interested in learning about others’ businesses.

3. Engaging Booth Experiences: Capturing Attention

Your booth is your storefront at trade shows and conferences, and it should be designed to captivate attendees’ attention. Create interactive experiences that allow visitors to engage with your products or services firsthand. Incorporate multimedia elements such as videos, demonstrations, or virtual reality experiences to showcase your offerings in an engaging and memorable way. Remember to train your booth staff to be knowledgeable, approachable, and proactive in engaging with visitors.

4. Thought Leadership Opportunities: Sharing Expertise

Trade shows and conferences often include speaking opportunities, panel discussions, or workshops where industry experts can share insights and expertise. Seize these opportunities to position your business as a thought leader in your field. Prepare engaging presentations that offer value to attendees and demonstrate your industry knowledge. Be sure to promote your speaking engagements beforehand using email and social media to attract attendees to your sessions.

5. Post-Event Follow-Up: Nurture Relationships

The real work begins after the trade show or conference ends. Follow up with leads promptly, whether through personalized emails, phone calls, or social media connections. Reference specific conversations or interactions to demonstrate your attentiveness and interest. Continue to nurture these relationships by providing valuable content, addressing any questions or concerns, and staying top of mind until conversion.

Driving Growth Through Strategic Engagement at Trade Shows and Conferences

Trade shows and conferences represent more than just opportunities for businesses to showcase their offerings; they are catalysts for growth and innovation. By approaching these events strategically, small and mid-size B2B enterprises can expand their networks, establish thought leadership, and ultimately drive business growth. By investing time, resources, and creativity into maximizing trade show and conference participation, businesses can unlock new opportunities and propel their success forward.

The holiday season is in full swing, and chances are you have already finalized the details for any holiday appreciation gifts you plan to send to your clients, but have you thought about how you are going to celebrate your team this season? If the answer is no, there is no reason to push the panic button just yet.

How to Show Appreciation During the Holidays

Showing appreciation doesn’t have to mean grand gestures or gifts. In fact, sometimes, a small act of kindness means the most. Here are a few ideas to help you get started.

1. Handwritten Cards
   Don’t overlook the simple act of a personalized note to celebrate your team members. We live in a world where texts and emails are our main form of communication. And typically, what lands in our home mailboxes are bills and advertisements. What if your team open their mailboxes to a card just for them expressing your gratitude for their hard work and commitment and closing with a happy holiday message?
2. Thoughtful Gift
   You may want to think about adding a small gift to your handwritten note. Remember to take into consideration what your team members like to do outside of the office. An avid reader may enjoy a new book or a gift card to purchase the newest read from their favorite author. Don’t forget to incorporate the meaning of the gift into your note.
3. Extra Time Off Work
   What is there never enough of during the holidays? Time! This season can be stressful, and giving your team an extra day or afternoon off from work may help ease their physical or mental load. Maybe it means they can spend extra time with a loved one, finish up last-minute shopping or decorating, or just take a few hours to themselves to recharge.
4. Celebrate Your Team With a Team Luncheon
   No, this is not a potluck team luncheon. We just talked about how time is a valuable commodity during the holidays. No one wants to add to their evening activity a last-minute trip to the store or an extra hour in the kitchen. They want to enjoy the holidays with less stress! Consider catering a meal at the office or a trip to a nice restaurant with a reserved room. If your team works remotely, a restaurant gift card or a gift basket delivery with their favorite holiday treat is a great option too.

Celebrate the Team That Supports Your Business

As you start to assemble your own ideas, keep in mind that we all want to be appreciated, especially around the holidays. Your small gesture can make a big difference. And it may create a team tradition for years to come. Happy Holidays from your Front Porch Team!

On the Porch, we are honored to market brands at different stages, from marketing plan to exit plan. We partner with businesses in start-up, growth, established and exit stages. Our team recently celebrated a business owner whose brand we evolved. This business owner sold the business to a larger company. When this happens, we take great pride in the role we had on the journey. We tangibly helped that owner and business reach their end game.

So how does marketing change at the different stages of a business? Just like a person growing from a baby to an adult, your business has different needs at every age to thrive.

Start-up Stage Marketing

Branding is paramount in this phase. Brand architecture and identity development are critical out of the gate. Once that is complete, the rest flows from there. The foundational collateral, like business cards, letterhead, and the like are developed. After that, website development and digital strategy follow.

Growth Stage Marketing

Businesses in the growth stage come to us as they are looking to target a new demographic or geography. They may expand their product or service offerings. Or the business owner wants to grow existing business. Typically, a new marketing strategy and execution are developed. This involves increasing existing marketing spend. Sometimes, rebranding is needed.

Established Stage Marketing

Your brand is established. But growth is still a desired outcome. How can you market differently at this stage to stay relevant? Updated market research and consistent data analysis are critical. Now may be the time to take risks. What haven’t you done? How can you push the envelope on creative or campaigns? Are your current marketing initiatives consistent? Do you need a brand audit?

Exit Stage Marketing

Ready to position your brand for living on its own, without you at the helm? Although it may seem counterintuitive, now is the time to invest in your brand. First, revamp your marketing strategy. Next, follow industry best practices. It is critical to be the brand authority. Then, increase brand awareness, all the while increase sales. Finally, audit marketing content. How is your website UX/UI? Do you have technical gaps? Make sure sales and marketing are aligned.

What stage is your business in?

Don’t know which one of the different stages your business is in? Let us help. However, if you do know, we can also be your branding and marketing partner. We take pride in our relationships with brands. And we are honored to work with smart, innovative business owners and leaders. So let us help you reach your end game however you define it.

Establish the 2024 Marketing Plan for Your Business

The fourth quarter is 2024 marketing plan time. And there is still time to accomplish this important business exercise to cultivate growth in your business. Are you ready for 2024? On the Porch, marketing plan meetings are set with clients through early December to get ‘er done. It keeps the business and team focused. Save valuable resources — time and money — by creating yours now. Holler if Front Porch Marketing can help!

Marketing Plans 101

So, where to start? We would be happy to help, of course. But, if you want to tackle it on your own, let us help entertain you.

1. Start by asking yourself the question “What are your 2024 business goals?” Marketing plans should align with what your business is trying to achieve.
2. Then, based on projected 2024 revenue, budget a percentage of that revenue for marketing to meet growth targets. Research shows that on average companies are budgeting 9–10% for this purpose, for the second year in a row, for a variety of marketing activities. Protip: companies trying to gain market share are allocating more even in these uncertain times.
3. Once the marketing budget has been inked, set your marketing goals. Goals should always be measurable and be able to be tracked on a monthly or quarterly basis. Measuring your progress is important! Define how success will be measured.
4. Next, analyze your company’s situation and create or update the SWOT analysis. And then, analyze where competitors sit within the space. Then, define or redefine the target clients or customers.

Bring Your Marketing Plan to Life

Now that you have the start of a marketing plan written, think about how you will fulfill it. Set your marketing strategies. Strategies are long-term and create the pathway through to the business’s mission. They drive all of the marketing activities.

Next, define your marketing tactics. Will you be using advertising? Social media? Media relations? How will you execute against your strategy? Tactics are more detailed and have a shorter time frame. And tactics are action oriented. Think of tactics as the answer to how strategies will come to life. Are there tools in place for reporting on your company’s tactical success? Who is responsible for reporting and measurement? Set your structure in place for next year.

Finally, create a marketing timeline for all these activities. What needs to be completed and when? Make notes on who is responsible for tactical execution and when.

Review What Worked and What Didn’t in 2023 to Make 2024 Better

Make sure to revisit the marketing plan from time to time. Audit last year’s efforts, and this year’s efforts to gain insight on what to do better next year. Some folks do it quarterly, some more frequently. And cheers to your business success through strategic, thoughtful branding, marketing, advertising and marketing communication in 2024!

Where Do Marketing Agencies Fit into Your Business?

In today’s competitive business landscape, marketing plays a pivotal role in driving growth and success, and marketing agencies are at the forefront of this work. Good marketing can identify new customers, engage and grow a loyal audience, or launch new products and services. And while some business owners may contemplate handling their marketing efforts in-house, seeking the expertise of an agency can make a significant difference in achieving sustainable results.

Marketing agencies bring a wealth of knowledge, experience, and strategic insights that can add substantial value to a client’s business. There are many different ways that agencies can contribute to a client’s success and why opting for professional assistance is essential.

What You Get When You Choose A Marketing Agency Over Doing it Yourself

When you work with a marketing agency instead of trying to do everything yourself, you’ll enjoy many advantages like specialized expertise, a strategic approach, resource optimization, access to cutting-edge tools, and time efficiency.

1. Specialized Expertise

Marketing agencies equip their teams of skilled professionals with specialized knowledge and skills in various marketing disciplines. From SEO and content marketing to social media and paid advertising, agencies can bring a diverse skill set that can be tailored to meet the unique needs of each client.

These marketers focus on their disciplines day in and day out, and adding their knowledge base to building your business pays off. Their expertise ensures that marketing efforts are executed effectively, delivering measurable results that align with business goals. More bang for your buck.

2. Strategic Approach

Agencies work closely with clients to develop data-driven strategies that align with their overall business objectives. By conducting thorough market research and competitor analysis, agencies identify opportunities and then craft well-thought-out campaigns to stay ahead of the competition.

A strategic approach not only maximizes marketing ROI but also enables businesses to make informed decisions for future growth. These agencies objective perspectives on growing clients’ businesses means they can make solid, research-backed decisions to build business. And then they can implement these decisions in a streamlined manner.

3. Resource Optimization

Managing marketing efforts in-house can strain resources, especially for small to medium-sized businesses. Marketing agencies offer cost-effective solutions that allow clients to focus on core business activities while leaving marketing tasks in expert hands. This resource optimization ensures that businesses get the most out of their marketing budget and manpower.

Our small to medium-sized clients benefit from Front Porch Marketing’s ability to supplement their own efforts. We work hand-in-hand with them to build their business as if it were our own, while lending expertise that clients don’t typically have in-house like website design, social media content marketing, email marketing and large design-focused projects like brochures. This leaves small business owners to focus on what they do best.

4. Access to Cutting-Edge Tools

Marketing agencies invest in state-of-the-art marketing tools and technologies to gain a competitive edge. By leveraging these tools, agencies can track and analyze data effectively, allowing for data-driven decision-making and continuous optimization of marketing campaigns. Such insights are crucial in maintaining a strong market presence and adapting to changing consumer behaviors.

It wouldn’t be cost-effective for small businesses to invest in these tools, so marketing agencies can again supplement the efforts of a business with this access to tools and the expertise to optimize their use for the benefit of a client’s business.

5. Time Efficiency

Implementing a successful marketing strategy requires time, effort, and consistent monitoring. By delegating marketing responsibilities to an agency, clients can focus on core competencies and strategic business growth. This time efficiency enables businesses to operate seamlessly while their marketing needs are efficiently addressed by industry experts.

Taking all these tasks off a small business owner’s plate gives them time to see the big picture. Then they can focus on growing their business. And they won’t get buried in the weeds of all the marketing tasks necessary to get there.

6. Reassess What Your Time is Worth, and Let a Marketing Agency Help Make Your Business Better

In conclusion, marketing agencies bring invaluable expertise and depth of knowledge. This can significantly elevate a client’s business to new heights. From specialized skill sets and strategic insights to resource optimization and access to cutting-edge tools, agencies offer an all-encompassing solution to marketing challenges.

While some clients may consider DIY marketing, it’s crucial to recognize the value that marketing agencies bring to the table. By partnering with a reputable agency, businesses can enjoy efficient and effective marketing efforts that lead to long-term success. Remember, marketing is an investment in the future, and entrusting marketing professionals can lead to remarkable returns.

Looking For More Than a Beach Read? Try One of These Marketing Books.

Building a StoryBrand: Clarify Your Messages So Customers Will Listen

Written by Donald Miller, this book is the perfect guide to strengthen your relationships and loyalty to your consumers. This book draws on the seven universal powers of storytelling. It teaches you how to craft a brand story to gain a competitive advantage in a crowded marketplace.

Building a StoryBrand is the marketing book that will transfigure the way you sell your brand. And the value it brings. It is for leaders who are wondering how to create a clear and consistent brand message. This book is the perfect read for helping you reach your audiences.

Contagious, Why Things Catch On

This book written by Jonah Berger explains the science behind how word-of-mouth and social transmission work. Berger reveals six principles of how ideas and products catch on, appealing to business leaders, politicians, health officials, and anyone trying to sell an idea or product. The book was a New York Times bestseller. It was also awarded the best marketing book in 2014 by the American Marketing Association.

For scientific and analytical thinkers, this is the best marketing book to help you understand the science behind the human brain and natural human tendencies when marketing your brand.

Hacking Growth: How Today’s Fastest-Growing Companies Drive Breakout Success

Looking to rapidly grow your brand? Hacking Growth by Sean Ellis and Morgan Brown is perfect for you. This read touches on the marketing strategy called Growth Hacking. It originated in Silicon Valley and refers to the rapid growth of a company. This book provides you with all the necessities and tools. Your teams can use it to maximize growth, customer base, and market share in a reasoned and deliberate way.

Positioning: The Battle For Your Mind

Are you overwhelming your customers with information? Are they skeptical of the over-consumption of media? Then this marketing book written by Al Ries and Jack Trout is perfect for you. The goal of this book is to keep your brand’s strengths and weaknesses in mind, and use this information to strategically position your company in the customer’s minds.

Whether you are new to the market or seasoned, this book provides you with the information to put yourself in your customer’s shoes. Make an educated approach to align your brand with your customer’s needs.

Permission Marketing: Turning Strangers Into Friends and Friends Into Customers

Seth Godin reveals his alternative marketing strategy of advertising goods and services only after getting advance consent. People do not respond positively when their lives are “interrupted” by unwanted advertisements.

This book shows brands how to effectively use permission marketing and the wide success it has had on various companies. If you are looking for a way to passively market your brand in a manner that consumers will find subtle and professional, this is the perfect book to read.

Q&A from a small business owner

Small businesses are the heart of America, but what would it look like to start a small business in the post-pandemic world of today? Life in corporate America has changed drastically since the start COVID-19 pandemic. Turnover rates have skyrocketed and a growing sense of burnout has people looking for flexible, fulfilling enterprises. So, when the 9-5 isn’t cutting it anymore, why not become your own boss?

Turn a passion into a money making machine that pays the bills and gets you out of the office. My personal friend, MJ, did just that. She created Ambrosia and Honey, an online art shop specializing in fantasy novel merchandise. I got the inside scoop on how MJ turned her drawings into a successful, growing company, as well as the hardships and victories she encountered along the way. 

1. What made you want to start your small business?

I started to read again after graduating college. I loved reading as a kid but school took up too much of my time and that passion got put on the back burner. A few months after graduation I got a job as a concept artist and was living with my parents. I had tons of free time after work and was burning through several books every week.

After 6 months working I realized that I really don’t like working for a company. No matter how cool the assignment was, I found that I could never bring as much passion to my job as I did to my personal work. I got into a bit of a bad place where I wasn’t sure what I truly wanted anymore. My goal was always to become a concept artist so why wasn’t I happy?

That was when I discovered the bookish community on TikTok and Instagram. I found so many other people that loved to read as much as I did, as well as other artists who created amazing bookish shops. I thought to myself “well I could do that.” And so I did!

2. How have your priorities changed from when you first started?

I don’t think my priorities have changed as much as my goals have. Originally I started the shop with the goal to share my art and maybe make a few extra bucks on the side to pay for gas, seeing as I drove 45 minutes to and from work every day. I was already creating fanart for myself, I figured other people might like to see it too.

Well as it turns out a lot of people like to see it and the shop is now my full time job! My current goals are more in the realm of expanding the company so I can keep up with the demand and creating even better products. My small business priority has always been quality over quantity. 

3. Knowing what you know now, is there anything you would have done differently when you were first starting out in your small business?

I would have done preorders from the start. I didn’t realize that social media engagement didn’t equal actual sales so I ordered way more product than I actually needed.

4. What has been the hardest thing about starting your own business? 

The hardest thing has probably been the accounting and business side of things. The art comes easy but the legal things you have to take care of are incredibly frustrating and time-consuming.

5. What is unique about your small business?

I think the fact I make art based on books is pretty unique. Most fan artists make work based on tv shows, films, or anime but the bookish community is relatively niche. My work itself is another thing that separates me from other bookish shops. The majority sell apparel, candles, or jewelry while I sell decor.

I combine digital painting with 3D elements to create something that’s never been done before. Of course this isn’t to say those shops are bad — on the contrary! My fellow bookish shop owners have become some of my dearest friends. I just mean to say mine is slightly different from the rest.

6. What do you look into when making a new product for your business? 

I have an entire notebook full of ideas I can’t wait to show everyone! Often times they come to me while I’m driving or when I’m about to fall asleep. That’s the easy part; scheduling is the main problem.

Due to how time-consuming each launch is, I’m only able to do one every few months so I have to be very strategic when they’re placed throughout the year. Seasons, holidays, book release dates, etc. all play in to what I choose to design and when. I definitely get inspired by my fellow bookish shops but my work is different enough from them that I generally just to my own thing.

7. How do you market your business? What is the most useful/successful?

Social media is essential to my small business! I personally use both TikTok and Instagram. Understanding how the algorithm works is the best skill you can learn in terms of marketing. Good lighting, engaging captions, and posting at the right times will take you far. If you don’t know where to start, look at other accounts to get inspiration. 

8. Any advice to someone starting a small business?

My biggest piece of advice is to be approachable! Let your followers get to know you and create a community. Post relatable content with insights into your personal life. Pull back the curtain and show what’s behind the scenes. People want to follow people, not brands.

Are you ready to start your own small business?

Starting a small business is no easy task, but it might be just what you need if you’re feeling bogged down by the corporate machine. They say if you’re good at something you should never do it for free, and if you’ve got passion and determination it can take you where you need to go. We’ve even got more tips for marketing your small business to help you get started.

Hopefully these tips can help you or someone you know who is looking to start their own small business! Huge thanks to my friend MJ. Remember to check out her shop Ambrosia and Honey online, and don’t forget to shop small!