My Story of Failures
Success stories often highlight the wins, but rarely do they tell the full story—the struggles, the pivots, and the moments when everything seemed to be falling apart. My journey to building a thriving branding and website design business wasn’t a straight path. It was a winding road filled with challenges, unexpected shifts, and valuable lessons. But looking back, every misstep was shaping me into the entrepreneur I am today.
The Entrepreneurial Spark: Where It All Began
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit. My first business was an Etsy shop where I sewed makeup bags and matching mom/daughter aprons. It was something I loved, but when I had my first daughter, time for sewing became scarce. That’s when I pivoted, diving into graphic design and photography—a shift that would ultimately lead me to branding and marketing.
As I worked on branding projects, I naturally started offering website design using WordPress. But something became very clear—clients were frustrated. They struggled to update their own websites, relying on developers for every small change. I wanted to empower business owners, not make them feel stuck.
Navigating Business Partnerships & Pivots
While experimenting with different business opportunities, I also dipped my toes into the world of MLM businesses. This led to a collaboration with another entrepreneur, and together, we launched an Etsy shop that sold marketing materials tailored to that industry. It did well—until it didn’t. The strain of mixing friendship and business became apparent, and I found myself at another crossroads.
I took that experience as an opportunity to revive my own Etsy shop, this time focusing on graphic design and marketing. The business flourished, but something wasn’t right.
The Wake-Up Call: When Success Doesn’t Feel Like Success
The Etsy shop was profitable, but I was constantly working. With two small kids at home, I felt torn between my business and my family. This wasn’t the dream—I wanted freedom, not endless hours at a screen.
I made the difficult decision to shut it down and reassess. At the same time, I realized that the MLM business no longer aligned with my personal goals. It was time for another pivot—one that prioritized both my business growth and my well-being.
I transitioned into a new business that allowed me to focus on my own health goals, which had become a top priority. This shift gave me the balance I needed at the time, but as life often does, unexpected challenges forced me to pivot once again.
A New Chapter: Learning & Growing Through Every Shift
Taking on a role as a Marketing Director was a pivotal moment for me. I learned new skills that I still use today in branding, website design, and business strategy. But then, COVID-19 changed everything—my position was eliminated.
Anticipating this shift, I took a chance on something completely different: I trained as an EMT and secured a job in a hospital-based EMS system. It was a job that I know, without a doubt, God provided at exactly the right time. It allowed me to support my daughters as a single mom.
While it was a fulfilling role, it also showed me the true impact of burnout. Working in EMS taught me valuable lessons in empathy and problem-solving, but it also made me realize that I needed to step away from the constant hustle culture.
Finding My True Calling: Squarespace & Supporting Local Businesses
Throughout all of these shifts, one thing remained consistent—I loved helping businesses build their brand and online presence.
When Squarespace came along, I jumped on it. After years of working with WordPress, I saw firsthand how frustrated business owners were with websites they couldn’t manage themselves. I knew there had to be a better way.
That’s why my mission today is simple: I help business owners build professional branding and websites that actually support their growth—without the headache.
I work alongside my clients, providing as much help as they need. Some prefer ongoing support, while others want the ability to make simple updates themselves. I empower them with the tools and knowledge to confidently run their own business.
Building Relationships Over Just Acquiring Clients
When I left my full-time position and committed fully to my own business, I knew one of the most important things wasn’t just acquiring clients—it was building relationships.
For almost a year now, I’ve been part of Cowork Collective, a coworking space in Monett, MO. This community has provided me with support, networking opportunities, and a sense of belonging—a place I can truly call my “business home.”
Looking back at my earlier journey, I now realize something: I was operating more as an island than as part of a community.
It’s easy to get caught up in the idea that being an entrepreneur means doing everything alone. But the truth is, surrounding yourself with like-minded business owners, learning from others, and fostering real connections makes all the difference.
Why I Focus on Supporting Local Businesses
Being deeply rooted in this local community, I believe that every business—no matter how big or small—deserves professional branding and a website that truly works for them.
Your website should be an asset, not an obstacle. It should help you attract customers, build credibility, and grow your business effortlessly.
That’s why I’ve dedicated my business to helping entrepreneurs right here in Monett, Aurora, and Mt. Vernon, as well as small businesses nationwide, create branding and websites that actually work—without the unnecessary complexity.
The Biggest Lesson: Boundaries & Sustainable Growth
Looking back, it’s easy to see the “failures.” The businesses that didn’t last. The pivots that felt like starting over. But in reality, each experience was a stepping stone.
The biggest lessons I’ve learned?
✔️ Setting boundaries—around my time, my energy, and how I allow others to impact me.
✔️ Letting go of hustle culture—success isn’t about working 24/7, it’s about working intentionally.
✔️ Focusing on steady growth—instead of chasing every opportunity, I’ve built a business that is stronger and more sustainable than ever.
Where I Am Today—And How I Can Help You
Today, I run a thriving branding and website design business, helping businesses create a clear, strategic online presence. Whether you’re launching your first business or rebranding for the next chapter, I’m here to help.
If you’re a business owner looking for a website that is easy to use, professional, and designed to help you grow, let’s talk.
Let’s Build Something Amazing Together.
Need a branding refresh? I can help you create a cohesive brand that makes an impact.
Struggling with a website that’s holding you back? I’ll build you one that works—without the frustration.
Want to feel confident managing your own site? I’ll equip you with the tools to do just that.
Schedule a free consultation today and start making your branding a strong, consistent asset to your business.
