She Strengthens

Turning Passion into Profit: 5 Essential Business Lessons

As a creative entrepreneur, turning your passion into a successful business can be a daunting task. Schentell Nunn, a Los Angeles-based floral designer and founder of Offerings, knows this firsthand. With 17 years of experience in the floral industry and event space, Nunn has learned valuable lessons about what it takes to succeed as a solo entrepreneur.

Aligning Dreams with Reality

One of the most important lessons Nunn has learned is that passion alone is not enough to guarantee success. As a freelancer and later a full-time entrepreneur, she encountered unexpected challenges that tested her resolve. “I knew a traditional career path wasn’t for me after college,” Nunn recalls. “But I didn’t realize how tough it would be to make my passion a profession.” This harsh reality check taught her that even the most passionate entrepreneurs need to be prepared for the ups and downs of business ownership.

Adapting to Change with a Flexible Website

Nunn’s website, built on Squarespace, has been instrumental in her business’s evolution. As her business grew and changed, her website was able to adapt seamlessly, thanks to its e-commerce features. “Being able to pivot quickly with Squarespace has had a really positive impact on my current business,” Nunn says. “It’s allowed me to switch from a portfolio-based site to a commerce site easily, which has been incredibly helpful.”

The Reality of Entrepreneurship

Many people think that quitting their job to become an entrepreneur means gaining freedom and flexibility. However, Nunn warns that this couldn’t be further from the truth. “As a creative trying to start their own business, there needs to be awareness that this is a full-time job,” she emphasizes. “It’s not just about working for yourself; it’s about working 24/7.”

The Six-Figure Myth

Making six figures as an entrepreneur is often romanticized, but Nunn knows that the reality is far more complex. “Grossing six figures doesn’t mean taking home six figures,” she explains. “You need to account for expenses, outsourcing, employee costs, and more. It’s not as simple as it seems.” To succeed, entrepreneurs need to learn how to create a salary for themselves, budget their business income and expenses, and prioritize their own needs.

Setting Boundaries for Success

Finally, Nunn stresses the importance of setting boundaries between work and personal life. “It’s easy to get caught up in work and forget to take care of yourself,” she admits. “But having a website like Squarespace has taught me to be more grounded and set clear boundaries with clients.” By establishing these boundaries, entrepreneurs can maintain their sanity and ensure long-term success.

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