Excerpt:

If I could sit down for coffee with my younger self—the 17-year-old girl who printed her first business card and took a chance—I’d tell her this: You don’t have to have it all figured out right now. Every step, every setback, and every pivot is leading you somewhere incredible.

I’d tell her about the late nights bartending, the sales job that taught her persistence, the marketing role that sparked a passion, and the customer service lessons that shaped her business mindset. I’d remind her that walking away from Miss Meg’s Cupcakes wasn’t failure—it was the first step toward something bigger.

And before she left, I’d give her a hug and whisper: You are going to do big things, and I am so, so proud of you.

Not every day in business is rainbows and sunshine, but counting down the hours until Friday at 5:00 PM isn’t the way to live either. Instead, try romanticizing your work—finding small joys in your daily routine to make your job more enjoyable. For me, that means creating a workspace that makes me happy, lighting my favorite Little Sister Dahlonega candle, and playing some Norah Jones while I design. Even if you're working remotely, small things like wearing your favorite outfit, grabbing a fun coffee (hello, strawberry pistachio latte from Jethros Dahlonega!), or using a planner you love can transform your workday. With Valentine’s Day around the corner, I hope you find new ways to fall in love with your job every day. 💕

Small wins matter in entrepreneurship! Success isn’t just about big milestones—it’s built on small, daily victories. From boosting sales with creative strategies to shifting mindsets for growth, celebrating progress fuels motivation. Learn how to track, reward, and leverage small wins to stay inspired and move forward. Join me in tracking wins for the next 30 days—what’s your small win today?

Growth is exciting, but let’s be honest—it’s not always easy. As I reflect on my journey with Crane Design Co., I’m reminded that entrepreneurship is a rollercoaster full of thrilling highs and unexpected loops. From starting my business in a cozy corner of Jethros Coffee House to balancing new challenges like opening a storefront with my sister, this past year has taught me the power of adaptability and resilience.

As we step into 2025, I’m setting bold goals, embracing change, and staying intentional about my time. Whether you’re just starting out or navigating year five like me, remember that every twist and turn on this ride makes you stronger. Let’s tackle this year together—cheering each other on, brainstorming big ideas, and making it one to remember.

Cheers to growth and all the possibilities ahead!

After years of ghostwriting blogs for clients, I've finally decided to embark on my own blogging journey, and I couldn't be more thrilled to have you join me. Let's kick off this exciting adventure with a dose of encouragement!