In this eleventh in a series of mini-interviews, learn more about our Threads of Success speakers and their sessions!
On Saturday, October 26, from 11:20 am-12:05 pm, Ebony Love will present the session “Party in Their Mailbox!” and from 4:20-5:05 pm, “Building a Professional Media Kit.” On Sunday, October 27, from 10:25-11:10 am, she’ll present “Independent Publishing for Creatives” and from 2:30-3:15 pm “Five Steps to Launching Your First (and Next) Online Class.”
Why did you want to participate in the Threads of Success conference?
When I first started in this industry, I had mentors who opened doors for me and took me by the hand to make introductions, share opportunities, and give advice. I don’t think I recognized them at the time as playing that role, but I know I didn’t get where I am by myself. Don’t get me wrong; I do the hard work, and doing your own work is instrumental to your success. But to have someone open a door for you when your hands are full and your back is bent, is immensely helpful. I view my participation in TOS as a way to open a door for the people who are here to do the work, but need a little help.
What was the biggest challenge for you in breaking into this business?
My biggest hurdle was choosing to enter into an area that was pretty unknown at the time and was viewed as a passing fad. When you choose to work in a niche within a niche within a niche (die cutting > quilting > craft), it’s challenging to be taken seriously when you’re one of the few independent designers working in that medium. I certainly didn’t make it easy for myself, but I learned a ton taking the rocky road.
What is the one piece of advice you wish you knew then that you do now?
That it’s okay to reinvent yourself if something isn’t working. Sometimes I worked too much trying to be all things to all people, and it kept me from having a clear path to what I wanted for a long time. It’s okay to cut bait!
What is the most important thing you hope people take away from your presentations?
I’m so thrilled to be presenting four topics, and the thread running through them is about establishing your presence both on and offline, and building your brand into something memorable and relatable. It’s challenging to go in-depth into any topic in 45 minutes, but I hope that people can take away at least one actionable thing that they can implement in their business as soon as they get home (or sooner)!
Any other comments?
I’m excited to meet the 2019 participants! Let’s make great businesses together!
For more on Ebony and her work, visit www.lovebugstudios.com
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