“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” -Hans Hofmann

The SBS Series is back! And this time there is a bit of a twist…In addition to “Small Business Success Stories” we will also be featuring “Enlightened Entrepreneurs” and “Community Connectors”. These are people who are leaders in their business, community or even their family. The common thread that connects this group is the intention they each carry to better the world around them. Each week we will be highlighting some of these amazing people who are raising the tide for all of us, starting with today’s guest– Bethanne Kronick!

Bethanne began her productivity coaching business, SIMPLIFY!, to help people create more time & energy and live with less stress. She offers classes and workshops to businesses and corporations on a variety of topics revolving around focus, organization and productivity.  Bethanne is also a keynote speaker and presenter and is widely known to deeply inspire and motivate her audiences.

A. Create a plan for what you want to do.  Break it down into small steps.  Create a team, YOUR team, of “trusted advisors” to partner with you so you don’t have to know it all!  These can be friends, family members, business associates, coaches, legal advisors, spiritual advisors, etc.  Look to the people on your team to advise you, teach you, support you and encourage you.  Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.

Thank you to Bethanne for sharing your warmth, insights and wisdom with us!

Please leave your comments below and join us throughout this success series. We’ll be back Tuesday with another “Enlightened Entrepreneur”…

“You’re happiest while you’re making the greatest contribution.” -Robert F. Kennedy

We return with the 2012 Small Business Success Series and are honored to begin with the wonderful Central Event Rentals! John and Janeen Fuqua started their business 5 years ago and certainly have a wealth of knowledge to share. They offer quality event rentals for weddings, parties and corporate events throughout Central Oregon. With a tremendous amount of heart and natural business savvy this customer service based business is a perfect fit for their skill set. Today they share with us some of the valuable lessons they have learned during their years in business.

Q. John and Janeen, What inspired you to begin this business?

A. Janeen and I had careers in the medical and soft drink industries.  I had worked 31 years as both a salesman (15 years) and a manager (16 years).  We both felt a strong desire to do something different in our lives.  In early 2005 we rented some event equipment for a memorial service and were surprised at the low level of service the company provided.  This was a springboard moment for us and an idea began to grow about starting our own event rental company.  We knew we had life experiences we could incorporate into a business such as good work ethic and common sense.  The challenge of something new and exciting was very appealing.  We did a lot of research and we had many, many sleepless nights.  We read an article about a former successful orthopedic surgeon who had a dream of one day creating and manufacturing her idea of the best quality running shoes. At the thought leaving her successful medical practice she said, “I feared regret more than I feared failure.” Her shoe company is now a multi-million dollar per year US Company!  That quote helped inspire us to move forward, and in May of 2007 that desire became a reality with our first official customer!

Q. What is the most rewarding part of Central Event Rentals?

A. As with any event service company… event rentals, photography, music, venue, catering, floral, etc; choosing the company you are most comfortable and confident with is a great relief.  To see our clients’ confidence when they know they have hired the right company for their needs brings us joy.  Seeing an event come to fruition and knowing we had a small or large part of its success is rewarding.

Q. What are some challenging elements of your business?

A. One of the challenges we face is reaching our largest customer base with proper advertising.  Finding and reaching our largest demographic of customers is an exercise in financial responsibility.  This is an ongoing challenge and we are constantly reevaluating where our advertising dollars should be spent.

Another challenge is time management during the busy summer event season.  We quickly realized our time with family, recreation, and friends would be limited.  We try to make the most of any free time we do have and spend it with family and friends.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Being your own boss sounds good but getting there and staying there may not be successful without many factors being considered.  Here are a few of those factors but certainly there are many more:

-Count the costs, not just financial, but time and effort needed.

-Take your time. Study your industry type.find and meet with as many business mentors as possible.

-Seek advice, listen. Proverbs 15:22 says: Plans go wrong for lack of advice; Many advisors bring success.

-Have confidence in your abilities. Be resolute.

-Know your limitations.

Q. What has helped you to persevere while running your own business?

A. Honesty, hard work, and customer service are external qualities that our customers can see and are very important.  Internally, we always look for ways to improve on what we do.  With customer service as our #1 goal, we understand the next telephone call we get is of utmost importance.  Another goal is to have a good reputation and build on it.  Perseverance depends heavily on passion, hard work, and staying focused.

Q. Is there any business or life advice that has helped you along the way?

A. Be joyful, do not get lazy, be humble, be positive, and be cheerful

Q. What is the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. Integrity, listening to our clients’ ever-changing needs, being proactive, planning ahead, and never stop improving; but the number one factor we have found is to have faith in God’s provision.

Q. How do you define success, in life and in business?

A. Success doesn’t just come to you; you have to work at it, take some risks, and be appreciative always.

Q. Is there a book, quote, piece of music, etc. that inspires you?

A. John: “In the end, it’s not the years in your life that count. It’s the life in your years.” -Abraham Lincoln

Janeen: Our two dogs bring us much joy. No matter what kind of day I’m having they always bring a smile to my face. You can’t help but feel loved when you come home to wagging tails and wet kisses. I have a magnet on my fridge that reminds me to smile, be happy, and don’t sweat the small stuff.  It says: ”Wag More, Bark Less”

Q. Is there anything else you’d like to share?

A. One of the things that we love about our business is meeting new people. Over half of our business is wedding industry related.  It is especially enjoyable for us to meet with brides, grooms, and their families. We always say that we have the ‘necessary’ items but not necessarily the ‘fun’ items. We realize choosing a caterer or florist and tasting yummy cake is much more fun than picking out tables, chairs, linens, and other essential items. We love to discuss what their vision is for their special day and help make it a reality by showing them a variety of chairs, tables, linens etc. We have had many clients tell us that they can see how much we love what we do and to us that is a perfect compliment.

 Thank you to John and Janeen for all your thoughtful insights and wisdom.

Join us this Tuesday for another in the Small Business Success series!

This year I have been going through a journey of seeking greater balance in my life, and this extended to our business. Both Riley and I wanted to change Alt Blu to reflect who we are in this moment. I believe businesses evolve, as we evolve, and we need to be flexible enough to let them morph and grow into what they really want to be. So we asked ourselves: What does our business really want to be? And who do we want to be for our clients? Out of this line of inquiry our new focus became clear: Websites Made Simple.

For months we kept hearing the same three things- people wanted a website they could manage themselves, they wanted it to look beautiful and they wanted the price to be affordable. There seemed to be a common element people were craving which was a feeling of empowerment- that they could manage their site with the same confidence in which they manage their business.

After listening to the needs we were hearing we set out to find a new, easier solution for everyone. What came from this process is our new “3 Step System“, a solution we feel is a win across the board– beautiful, easy to manage, mobile friendly websites. The price is affordable yet there is no sacrifice on the quality & aesthetic. We build each of these websites ourselves, from the ground up, so there’s never a question we can’t answer. We have been receiving amazing feedback so far, so we feel we are on the right track…

A true passion for both Riley and I is watching small business owners do work they feel passionate about and be wildly successful at it. It’s why we do what we do, and this intention is at the core of every project we work on. We are truly excited for the possibilities this new system holds for our clients and their own sense of balance & business success.

Thank you for joining us on our new website, and embarking on this new journey with us. If you have any questions or want to talk further, feel free to call me (Elena) or Riley, we’d love to talk with you.

Wishing everyone great success, in business and in life!

-Elena

Q. Welcome Connie! Please describe your businesses for us:

A. Run Ready is the name I chose as an umbrella for health and fitness services serving Central Oregon and beyond. It includes the following programs:

1. The Learn to Run Program.  I’ve been teaching beginning running classes through the FootZone in downtown Bend.  I give people the steps and strategies to get started in their own running or fitness walking program, in an encouraging non-competitive, and very nurturing format.  Since April 2009, over 600 people have taken my class. I hope to continue this service to others, and add online education, private workshops and retreats, and curriculum for other retail stores to begin their own educational outreach program.

2. The Learn to Run Fun website . This site is meant to keep new runners inspired, involved, and informed in the world of running.  This site is evolving daily.  I have lots of work to do on this!

3. As tools to support the program and to sell online, I plan on publishing 2 books for beginning runners and walkers.  A fun “How to” guide for starting a running/walking program, and a health and fitness journal.  I have many testimonials and inspiring stories from class participants I hope to feature as part of these books as well.

4. Fitness retreats. The first will happen this September 23-25 at Mt. Bachelor Village.  It’s a women’s only retreat called FLOW – Fitness and Leisure Outings for Women. I’m working with a planning committee on this one, and it will include introductory fitness and leisure workshops, great food, wine, fun times with girlfriends, local discounts in the Old Mill District and local restaurants, and a celebratory focus on all the joys of being a woman.

Q. What inspired you to begin Run Ready?

A. After teaching so many people to run through my classes at the FootZone in Bend, I was encouraged by the participants and partners in my program to expand and create my own business. I have a strong background in teaching and have been a runner most of my life, so following my passion was easy. I’ve coached cross-country and track for 8 years, taught jogging at COCC, competed in numerous marathons and triathlons, and enjoy facilitating and helping others achieve their goals.  This class is a perfect match.  I also work in the meeting and event planning industry so it seemed natural to combine teaching and events.  I have always enjoyed creating valuable experiences for others.

Q. What is the most challenging part of running your business?

A. Doing something completely new.  It’s both a challenge and a thrill.  My Masters degree is in Education and Counseling, void of a single business class in college.  Now I’m gobbling up any info I can on business development.  I have so much to learn.  Having the clear direction of how I’ll get from idea to action to result is now up to me.  For instance, the idea for a beginner’s running class became a reality, so I believe I can put the same effort into the other areas of my business. I now have a website that will evolve, books to write, and a retreat to plan and administer. Every element is moving along, yet timing, finances, and oh yes… keeping the rest of my life balanced, can be a bit tricky.  Strategy, maximization, and staying positive are strengths of mine, so I’m confident I’ll see results.

Q. What is the most rewarding?

A. Seeing the people in my class succeed in so many ways brings me so much joy.  The life changes they are making inspire me, and I am touched by so many of their stories.  Some people have never tried running before and they overcome their fears one step at a time.  It’s incredible! Some of their successes include running a goal distance, losing weight, connecting with nature, realizing their potential, starting a running program in their 60’s, or creating new friendships. I feel good about facilitating a nurturing community for beginning runners and a supportive place for experienced runners. I also feel good about the partnership I have with the FootZone and how I can contribute to their success as an outstanding independent local running store.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Use the business resources available to you.  Not just books, but people who have been there and can share their wisdom.  I’ve found help from COCC’s business development program, I take COCC’s community education classes, I’ve joined a small business support group through Opportunity Knocks, and I’ve found a fun women’s group that meets monthly to support website development.  These are just a few of the many local resources available.  I love reading the Business calendar in the paper to seek out more opportunities for learning.

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows?

A. Partnerships and encouragement from others have been very important to me.  The thank-you e-mails and personal stories from my class participants make what I do feel worthwhile.  I have a supportive husband who is my best friend and fan. I am lucky to have a business that offers everyone positive skills and strategies they can apply to improve their own health and well being as they cope with the ups and downs of life.

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A. Lots of bits and pieces from caring friends and family have helped me along the way. Much of it boils down to keeping things simple and taking good care of myself.

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. Partnerships.  In order for my business to flourish, I value the expertise and experiences of other people and business owners.  I partner with the FootZone to share space, knowledge, contacts, employee support, and customer base.  In turn, they are gaining new customers.  By inviting professionals from the medical and recreation industries into my classes to share their expertise, I keep learning the best information and they may receive new clients.  Through the support of the Redmond Oregon Running Klub and Rebound Physical Therapy, we’ve expanded the Learn to Run program to Redmond.   I’ve joined the Outdoor Industry Women’s Coalition offering more than a networking opportunity, but valuable education and partnerships. I believe in collaborating as often as possible.  That way, we can all share in the success of others as well as enjoy the support when we need it.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. Success to me is the satisfaction, enjoyment and rewards from doing my best work.

Q. Is there a book, blog, quote, piece of music, etc. that consistently inspires you creatively?

A. I love music and find that listening and playing music (I play the cello and piano) keep me fresh creatively.  I also keep this quote handy to remind myself of the potential we all have inside us:  ”The privilege of a lifetime is being who you are” — Joseph Campbell

Q. Is there anything else you would like to share today?

A. I am very grateful to the many people who have taken my class.  They continue to inspire me, and I am reminded to have the courage to try new things I’ve never done before.

There are certain people you meet who thrive on creating community and their enthusiasm is contagious, Connie Austin is one of these people. She cares deeply about people and wants everyone to feel comfortable and uplifted. Her positive and nurturing approach to teaching is a big part of the reason the classes have been so successful.
Connie inspires those around her and brings a collaborative energy to all of her pursuits– it is vital to her that the people around her succeed and this generous intention has helped ensure her own success as well.

Are you interested in learning to run? Her next class begins Wednesday July 6th– find more details or sign up at www.learntorunfun.com

We have officially reached the end of this season’s Small Business Success Series! I want to say a big THANK YOU to all of the incredible participants, and to all of the readers for your engagement- I hope the insights shared have helped all of you on your business journey. It has been a privilege to share this series and to connect with all of you– I look forward to starting up another round in early 2012! ~Elena

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Q. Welcome Byron, what inspired you to start your business?

A. Like many, I’d been searching for the career that we all dream about but seldom hear of or see other than in movies. I’m talking about the career path where everything just seems to click and not only can we use all our really great talents but EACH day of the work week is exciting…. not only Friday. In 20 years I never gave up on this dream but many times I felt so close to finding it I began to feel like that little train, nearly at the top of the hump but unable to make it over. I was at the point in my life where I finally realized that the career path I’d been looking for (and avoiding) was within me from the beginning. I came to see that my love of art, photography and creating was one of the most honest passions I’d ever had within me from the start and I was finally willing to put everything on the line to go after it. When I made up my mind to begin this new direction I was amazed at how everything seemed to fall into place. The “what if’s” of taking this (so called) chance became so insignificant!!

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business? 

A. By far it would be the challenges that come with working as a husband and wife team. I knew from the start that I wanted Wendy to work with me full time as she brings a whole different skill set to the table. We complement each other’s knowledge and best abilities in a way that drew us together in the first place.  In our business, focusing on only our strong points has helped us also get much further in a shorter amount of time but we’ve found you have to be careful. The joke as an entrepreneur is you’ll never have so much fun working so hard and this becomes the tough situation in balancing life as a business couple. When it’s something you both love, (like for Wendy and I) it’s hard to shut off the business mind and put it to sleep at some point. Knowing from the start that our business runs solely on our great relationship as a couple has prevented us from continuing to progress down that path. We’ve found that having rules as to when and where we can discuss business has helped out immensely, (like anywhere in our bedroom is a no, no!), in addition to separating out tasks that can be taken all the way to completion by one person. Another challenging part of working as a couple is that we both have to be very conscious of how we come off to the other person, (in our words and actions). I’ve found that because we’re connected on so many levels to each other, issues can quickly become more emotionally based than if we were merely business colleagues. Always keeping the pathways of communication open has allowed us to focus on the big picture!

 
Q. What is the most rewarding?

A. Easily one of the most rewarding parts of my job is getting to help people. You have to love people when you’re in a business like we are! I’ve always gotten great satisfaction from helping others and it’s amazingly gratifying to know that who I am as a person and what I do plays an intricate part in making my clients wedding experience a great one.   I’ve also been an artist my whole life and have known that I’m happiest creating something with my hands, such as a photograph! The culmination of reward for me when creating a photograph for others is in knowing that I have the possibility of helping people create a better opinion of themselves and that to me is worth more than any amount of money!
Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Do your homework!!! Most people are taking part of their life savings to go after their dreams as an entrepreneur so make sure your putting your best foot forward. Know your target clients! This will change through time as your business matures but if you don’t know whom you’ll be selling to from the beginning you might end up focusing all your efforts towards a direction that was destined to fail from the start. Make it easy on yourself and figure out whom you want your clients to be and if it’s feasible for that matter. Only then can you direct your marketing/sales in a way to make the money you’ll need to grow your business.

Secondly, know what areas you’ll need to outsource, even when certain aspects are enjoyable within the business!  This will be everything to your company’s ultimate success!! Most entrepreneurs in the beginning end up taking on every role in the company to save money but many realizing all too late that their time, (which is ultimately $$) spent learning accounting software or web marketing could have been better spent! One area that you can’t really push off on others though, is the ability to speak and write in an eloquent manner. Be honest with yourself and know up front your limitations in these areas because you and your businesses reputation is at stake ever time you write an email or bump into a person on the street. I didn’t see it at the time but getting a BA in journalism 20 years ago couldn’t have been a better choice now! Take writing classes up at the college if you need to but don’t wait until you have to repair the damage! For learning to work better with people, read the book, “How to Win Friends & Influence People” by Dale Carnegie is a must read for every person in business for themselves. The title’s bizarre enough but you’ll find that most of the hints in the book are no brainers that we’ve all forgotten over the years.

I was lucky to realize early that there’s a reason why over 80% of small businesses fail within the first year. You’d be wrong in thinking that these failures were because of shoddy products being offered! Most, (entrepreneurs) are superior at whatever their business is, be it photography, building houses, baking, etc. We all started our business with the passion and desire because we had the confidence in our skills. The problem is this doesn’t insure business success because it doesn’t have anything to do with the real success of a business! I will never forget the words of a business consultant in one of the first photography conference I ever attended, “it’s not about your photography”, he said. The bottom line is you can make the best widget in the world but if you can’t get the customer in the door it doesn’t matter!!! I now believe that all entrepreneur’s need to have marketing and business degrees rather than any more schooling in what they are already proficient at.

Oh, and please don’t try to become a jack-of-all-trades! This works great when you want to impress your wife and your ability to not only fix the dishwasher but change the oil in the car but it doesn’t translate well in the world of business.  Remember, other than those customers looking for a cheap deal, most people seek a true specialist when it comes to spending money.

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows? 

A. Having faith in knowing that the direction Wendy and I are going in this business is ultimately the right one.  Putting into perspective the state of our economy and knowing that people (and businesses) prosper no matter what is happening. It’s really too easy to get lured into the trap of believing, (and reading into) everything journalists provide for us but it ultimately comes down to our perspective and how we want to look at our lives. I’ve spent way too much time talking myself out of so many great ideas and dreams through the years that I realize now if you’re not continually focusing on how the glass might be half full, you’re not helping yourself one bit!

We’re also constantly working on creating a better business. We know that there are always better ways to work with our clients in terms of the services we can provide to them. We’re focused on giving our clients an experience that is not only truly unique to who we are but also who they are!
  

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A. Soooooo much but here’s a big one!

One bit of advice that all entrepreneurs need to take to heart is in the area of being unique. How do you separate yourself from your competition when you all “seem” to make the best whatever? If you think it’ll be your customer service, you need to seriously think about what that means in your industry. If you think separating yourself from your competition by having great customer service is going to make you unique, when your interpretation of “great customer service” is doing what your customers expect everyone to do anyways….well, you’re NOT being unique!! The only way to be unique in customer service is to above and beyond what the status quo thinks is normal for that industry!

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. When you look at successful businesses you tend to only hear only about that one person and it gives off this ludicrous idea that all the success was from them only:  Ford, Turner, Gates, Jobs, Bezos, Zuckerburg…I understand now that one person is never behind the creation of a successful business! Being ultimately open to seeking out advice has been a huge factor in the success of our business. This has helped me reach out to people in our industry I normally would never have met and created everlasting friendships.

This also transcends into the business philosophy I ultimately adopted from the beginning.  I decided that I’d rather not look at the knowledge I gained in photography and business as the main reasons behind any success we might have. What I mean is, I don’t want to think of my ideas and knowledge as secrets I need to keep from my competitors to be successful. You can either believe that merely what you learn and implement is what makes you successful or realize it’s really who you are as a person, your personality and how YOU decide to use what you learn that makes you a success. I tend to focus solely on the latter as it’s much more positive and believe that wanting to help others achieve their goals (through helping them with what I’ve learned) will open up far more avenues to where we want to go with our business than what would have come from being secretive. They don’t call it karma for nothing people!

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. We are all trying to achieve a form of balance in life. It would be easy, (and so trite) to say making a ton of money is a success…however, the thing I continue to keep in mind is the fact that there are many people who have all the $ they could ever need and are still unhappy! I am continually proud to wake up excited at creating and working within our company and this is a huge part of what I think success is in life and unfortunately what few people achieve. I’m also able to share my passion for photography and career with my wife and this to me is truly lucky!

I do see the big picture though and how easy it could get to continue pounding away at one’s business, constantly achieving greater and greater monetary goals to the point where we forget the point and it becomes…a job! I’m constantly reminded that the next strive for the next big purchase of the next best “thing” to have in life can get very old very quick. Ultimately, for me, the biggest success from having a successful business will create more options for Wendy and I, as a means to help not only ourselves but also more importantly others.    

Q. Is there a book, quote, piece of music, etc. that consistently inspires you creatively?

A. I’m a big fan of the self-help guru Anthony Robbins and would recommend listening or reading any of his series.  “As a business you have to be constantly reinventing yourself by anticipating what could happen next in your industry. At one point you were making the best carburetors in the world but when fuel injection came along you were out of a job” says Robbins.

I also love the quote from Nelson Mandela with regards to fear, (this is part of it): “There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” This quote inspires me to always work on being a role model for others in our industry and to strive to help others achieve their goals!

Q. Is there anything else you would like to share with today’s readers?

A.  It always seemed as though I was alone in looking for that amazing career and that everyone else was where they wanted to be but now I hear from many others around me the desire to find the career of their dreams and I can only say with 100% absolute certainty that we all truly know deep down what we want to do in life. The real task is NOT finding out what we want to do but silencing decades of information we’ve taken in that have become the walls preventing us from taking the first step to achieving our dreams!

A big thank you to Byron Roe for all of these sincere, clear pearls of wisdom. His insights exemplify what this series is all about and his generous sharing is helpful to any entrepreneur on their business path, or newly discovering their passion. Are you a creative professional as well? What parts of Byron and Wendy’s business journey do you relate to?

Please share your thoughts below and join us next Thursday for our final installment in the Small Business Success Series!

Q. Matt, please describe your business:

A. Pinnacle Media focuses on what your story is with your business and becomes a member of your team. We use this unique ability to help tell a better story about you and your business through the use of visual media. We are expert story tellers and know how to engage your clients and customers with unique videos on the web or television.

Q. What inspired you to begin Pinnacle Media?

A. After almost 10 years building a successful local origination channel, COTV, I decided it was time to be my own boss and produce better quality long form content for local businesses. I began the business focused mainly on high quality event production, but realized that there were clients that needed our unique ability to help tell their stories through the use of better quality video production.

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business?

A. The most challenging part of the business is managing the numerous moving parts of the production world. In the case of BendFilm we are managing usually over 80 plus films being played at over 5 venues.

Q. What is most rewarding for you about Pinnacle Media?

A. The best thing about what we do is produce an exceptional video for a great organization and hear, or in some cases see, how they have gotten results using our video.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Be passionate about what you do. It is so important that you have passion. Because when you just worked 10 hours you may have 6 more to go. The passion you have will carry you through lot of adversity. 

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows?

 A. In surviving the ebbs and flows the one thing that has kept us going is our clients. We have some amazing clients and getting to know each of them has allowed us to build a stronger business as well as a stronger connection to the community.

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A. The biggest advice I have ever gotten is to be true to yourself as well as keep the passion alive.

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

 A. It seems very cliché, but it really is to treat others as you would like to be treated. In this small community of Central Oregon we owe it to one another to treat each other with dignity and respect. I feel I have been rewarded because people know that I am honest and have integrity.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. Success is measured by how you give back to those around you- your employees, customers and even the community at large. We know we are successful by that level of giving back.

Q. Is there a book, blog, quote, etc. that consistently inspires you creatively?

A. I am a big fan of blog posts and the writings of Seth Godin. It reminds me that the creativity is within and we should not settle for second best.

Q. Is there anything else you would like to share with our readers?

A. With an increasingly changing landscape of marketing the one truly amazing thing that has happened over the last several years is how easily we can capture the essence of a business and deliver that effectively through the web.

Matt leads his business with integrity, quality and a deep respect for his clients.  He is genuinely passionate about what he does and encourages other business owners to be true to themselves, treat one another with respect and give back to their community. The tips he has shared are applicable to our approach to business as well as our lives as a whole. Which of these insights have been most valuable for you? Are you currently using visual media as part of your marketing strategy?

Please leave any comments below and join us next Thursday as we near the end of our success series!

Q. Kimberly, what inspired you to begin this business?

A. I grew up in a family of professional photographers. As a child I spent countless hours in my father’s professional dark room observing him as he printed his photographs. Then as I grew into a teen my father inspired me to pick up a film camera and explore the world around me. In my mid 20′s after several years in outside sales, I began to search for a more rewarding career. I imagined myself selling my art, so I slowly began to develop my own in business 2003.

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business?

A. Time management is the most challenging element of my business. I have found that in order to be successful I have to be extremely disciplined. Being task orientated is essential in order to stay on track and deliver the highest quality images.  It’s an art form, in itself, to separate family life and business life.

Q. What feels most rewarding?

A. To see peoples face light up with joy when they look at their pictures. To know we have created heirlooms that capture the emotions and moments that they will keep and cherish for a lifetime.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Educate yourself, learn every aspect of your trade. Also learn what it takes to be a successful entrepreneur. Take it slow- success does not happen over night. Have patience, persistence and confidence, because these attributes are necessary for success. And emotionally invest in your clients!  Go that extra mile for them each and every time.  I learned years ago when I was in outside sales that above ALL ELSE your clients will be your largest advocate for you. If they have an amazing experience they will sell you like no other. The largest value of  marketing is your clients!

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows?

A. Flexibility and an open mind help to keep me strong during the ups and downs that I cannot control.  Being willing to adapt, to understand what the market will bare, and choosing new directions to work. A willingness to do whatever it takes to get each job.  Working harder then I ever imagined I could, always staying positive, and pushing my creativity ever further.  I believe that the energy you put out there is the energy you will receive back.

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A. My father has always been my greatest business inspiration.  He owned a very successful printing business in San Diego for 25 years.  He grew his business from the ground up. He pursued perfection in everything, and he never settled for less.  I have always respected and admired that virtue and I have taken that same approach myself.  Always believing that there is nothing that can’t be done better and having the confidence to deliver it is such a huge value for growth and longevity in any business.  My father taught me to put the pedal to the metal 150%.

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. Understand what it takes to run a business.  I believe that the most important factor to longevity in this business of photography is not only understanding your tools of the trade 100% but to think like a business person first and foremost.  So often as artists we tend to think with our hearts. While that is not a poor quality to have, I believe that the key to success and longevity comes from being able to think like a business first.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. I define true success in life and business in terms of happiness. I do not believe the amount of money you make or clients you have serve will bring true happiness. How my work affects those around me is where I find the greatest satisfaction.  I feel as though I have been successful because I’m doing what I truly love and lucky enough to make a living to support my family at it.

Q. What are your sources of inspiration?

A. What inspires me most are the teachings of the Buddha. My children and husband inspire me every day to be the best person, friend, mother, wife and business owner I can be.

Q. Thank you Kimberly for all your thoughtful insights. Is there anything else you would like to share?  

A. This quote: “All that we are is the result of what we have thought. The mind is everything. What we think we become.” ~ Buddha

Kimberly is very passionate about her art as well as the art of running her business. She cares deeply for her clients and devotes herself to capturing their authentic moments. This connection shows in her photography, and her dedication to her business shows in it’s success. Among her many valuable tips Kimberly advises business owners to keep growing, work hard and have patience and perseverance. She also wisely suggests that business owners ‘emotionally invest’ in their clients because their resulting happiness can be a wonderful referral source.

Are you a creative professional as well? Which of Kimberly’s tips are most useful for your business venture? Please leave your comments below and join us next Thursday for another tale of business success!

Our section of the article is below but the entire post and list of other 2011 winners can be found here.

Thank you to Cascade Business News!

Honoring Business Leaders 40 & Under May 31, 2011

Cascade Business News, Broken Top and Sterling Savings Bank recently honored over 30 accomplished leaders under the age of 40 working in Central Oregon’s varied business  communities. In today’s extremely competitive business environment, standing out among  your peers takes dedication, vision, talent, drive and the ability to bring forth not only the best in yourself, but in others as well. These are the building blocks of leadership, and to be recognized with this award illustrates that they possess these qualities in abundance.
We see the importance of the impact that these young professionals have in the community – and their contribution to the economic future of the region. We think it is important for you to meet these business and community leaders who are building impressive careers while  making a commitment to help their communities grow and prosper for future generations to enjoy.

RILEY AND ELENA WILLITTS
Riley Willitts: Creative Director/Owner Alt Blu
Elena Willitts: Marketing Director/President Alt Blu

Professional accomplishments: We took our web design/development and marketing backgrounds and fused them together to create our business Alt Blu last year. Our mission for Alt Blu is to provide the web, graphic and marketing tools for businesses to genuinely succeed at every level. Whatever phase of growth the company is in we have tools to help establish or strengthen their brand and broaden their reach.
Civic, industry & community involvement: We wanted to inspire those who want to start their own business so we began a blog series on our website called “Small Business Success Stories” – which features Central Oregon business owners who have achieved success in their ventures. We’ve received amazing feedback on this series- it has encouraged people to reach for their business dreams and highlighted the success of those currently making it happen.
Business leadership philosophy: One of our favorite quotes is, “For our own success to be real, it must contribute to the success of others” -Eleanor Roosevelt. We run our business and live our lives with this philosophy in mind. When you build others up you bring out the best in them and draw out their natural success. We believe this is true with all individuals we work with. When you treat someone with respect and reverence and really listen to who they are and where they want to go you help empower them to reach their greatest heights– and this is genuine leadership. Real leaders help create leaders out of those around them. Our goal is to empower all of our clients to be successful leaders in their own businesses.

Q. Matt, what inspired you to begin this business?

A. I wanted to create a space where I could gather like minded stylists to maintain a cohesive work environment. Our stylists are all well established and have many years of experience and continued education in the industry. It was important for me to keep the salon small, intimate and relaxed.

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business?

A. Challenging isn’t a word that I would use to describe any part of my business, it is 99.9% positive. With the right people in place everything comes together, it almost seems effortless.

Q. What is most rewarding for you?

A. The positive feedback I get when clients talk about their experience in the salon, when they compliment the atmosphere and the vibe, and of course, when they leave feeling great about their hair. The personal relationships our stylists develop among the clients that come into the salon, many that we see year after year. And our great stylists who take pride in the space and the business as if it were their own. They show a great deal of respect for eachother, which is so important in this business and in the feel of the salon.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Follow your heart and instincts. Seek advice from other successful business owners. Stay realistic about your goals and what you think you can accomplish. Start small and grow with your business as you have more demand.

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during economic ebbs and flows?

A. Maintaining our level of quality and service. Loyal clients and the element of support amongst small businesses in the community. Keeping it local!

-Bend’s Northwest Crossing neighborhood where Salon Essenza is located-

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. Surrounding yourself with the right people that have common goals. Referrals and word of mouth have also been important. If your clients are happy they want to refer other clients your way.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and/or in business?

A. Maintaining a healthy balance between work and professional life. Making sure that the time you spend in each aspect of your life is quality time. Doing something that you love and looking forward to going to work. I love working close to home and my daughters’ school. If I have a break I can go to school and be in class with my girls or surprise them for lunch. And if the girls swing high enough on the swing at school they can see the salon. I love to ride bikes to school with our girls and then to work- and if we have enough snow I can cross country ski to work. It’s easy to have that combination in our community.

Q. Is there a quote that consistently inspires you?

A. “Life is too important to be taken seriously.” -Oscar Wilde

  -Matt and his family-

Matt Jameson has built a highly successful salon with a combination of experience, hard work, and a clear vision of the type of business he wanted to create. He has also had the support of a highly motivated, skilled team. Has a team effort been part of your business journey as well? What have you learned from the lessons Matt shared? Please leave your comments below and join us next Thursday for our second to last success story of the season!

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Q. Welcome Michelle! Please describe your business with us-

A.We live in a fast-paced, visual world where people demand constant entertainment and instant information.  If your message fails to be communicated in a quick and powerful way, it is lost.  At Wahoo Films, we believe web video is emerging as the most important element in promotion and training. With our expertise in video production coupled with the use of emerging technology in online video, we tell your story in a manner that will impact the masses and leave an everlasting impression.

Q. What inspired you to begin this business? 

A.Many strong individuals have a dream, something that drives them everyday.  For me, it was creating engaging and entertaining videos that made a real impact. With the birth of online video in 2004, it was apparent to me that Wahoo Films had a chance to redefine the way today’s organizations think about web marketing, training and fundraising.

Q. What is the most challenging element of your business?

A. Wahoo Films was born with the theory that online video would quickly become a critical marketing tool for organizations. It took another four years for the masses to see the value of web video. In 2010, web video success stories started being published, stating dramatic growth for companies marketing with online video.  This directly influenced Wahoo Films with a 20% growth in sales in 2010 and this quarter we’ve already seen an outstanding 40% growth.

Q. What is most rewarding about Wahoo Films?

A. All of it!  From learning something new on every project to building these amazing working relationships with our clients and our team.

Q. What advice would you give to those starting their own business?

A. Listen, listen and listen.

Q. What has helped you to stay strong during the economic ebbs and flows?

A.We started Wahoo Films with little capital and have built it organically. The business opened right at the beginning of the economic downturn in 2005. This taught us how to be financially conservative right from the starting gates.

Q. Is there any business or life advice you have received that has helped you along the way?

A.“Success is never owned, it is rented- and the rent is due every day” – Rory Vaden

Q. What has been the most important factor for you in the success of your business?

A. A team of mentors including Jim Wilcox at the Small Business Management program, Opportunity Knocks, and most of all, my father.

Q. How do you define true success- in life and in business?

A. Being at the top of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs: “Self-actualization”

Q. What consistently inspires you creatively?

A. A walk in nature inspires me most!

Michelle has built a highly successful business with a combination of hard work and ingenuity. She had a dream, knew when it’s time had come and acted on it. She offers many valuable tips in her interview, including listening to others and finding mentors–which has been incredibly helpful to some of our other guests as well.

What piece of advice will you take from Michelle’s story to utilize in your own business? Leave your comments below and join us next Thursday for another success story!

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