The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
Without a doubt, the biggest challenge has been building self-confidence. Starting a business means putting your work out into the world and trusting that people will see value in what you create. That can be daunting, especially when you’re beginning something completely new.
Over time, I’ve learned to trust my abilities, back my creative decisions and recognise the unique value I bring through handmade, personalised artwork. Every completed banner, positive piece of feedback and returning customer has helped strengthen that confidence and remind me that there is a place for what I offer.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
One of the biggest advantages of running my own business is flexibility. I can work around family life, choose my projects and spend my days creating something I genuinely enjoy. There’s also a wonderful sense of pride that comes from building something from the ground up and seeing customers connect with my work.
On the other hand, being your own boss means wearing many different hats. Beyond painting, there’s marketing, social media, customer communication, administration and planning. It can sometimes be difficult to switch off because there’s always something else that could be done.
One challenge I’ve encountered is the amount of time invested before an order is even confirmed. I provide a pricing schedule upfront so customers have a clear idea of costs, and once they’re comfortable with the likely price, I spend several hours creating personalised mockups and concepts for them. Because I don’t currently charge for this design work, it can be disappointing when people don’t respond or decide not to proceed after that stage. It’s all part of learning how to run a creative business, but it has taught me the value of my time and the work that goes into every banner before a paintbrush even touches the paper.
Despite those challenges, the rewards of creative freedom, flexibility and creating meaningful pieces for people far outweigh the downsides for me.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
My goal is simple: to continue creating beautiful, meaningful banners for wonderful people. I’m not aiming for rapid growth or becoming overwhelmed with orders. Instead, I want to build a sustainable business that fits alongside family life and allows me to keep enjoying the creative process.
I love the idea of steadily working away, one banner at a time, creating pieces that become part of people’s celebrations, milestones and memories. If I can continue doing meaningful work that brings joy to others while maintaining balance in my own life, that would be a dream come true.
Visit the illi website to check out their gorgeous banners, and connect with them on Facebook and Instagram.
