Can I really go it alone?

[DomiMalphor]

Hello,

I am starting a business upcycling furniture and creating home decor. The creative side I obviously relish in and I am absolutely obsessed with anything interiors related. I have already lots in place such as a workshop, some stock, an Etsy shop, an Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest, a website with a blog. I earned plaudits from Annie Sloan and the Upcycle Hour.

I am proud of what I do but struggle to put myself out there. I am not selling much and I guess that's because I am not reaching my target customer. I fear that my head might not be one for business and feel I need to collaborate with a 'mechanic', someone with a more practical head.

I expect this is the downside of running a business, the feeling of loneliness and the self-doubt about being able to be good at every aspect of the job.

So in your experience, is it worth considering finding a partner and if so how would I find one? I am based in Oxford but I'm new here and don't know anyone yet. I also wonder how to interest anyone as at this stage there is no money involved so I can't just advertise for a job or anything like that.

Please let me have your thoughts and suggestions.

Thank you.

[Winterhatsandgloves]

You need a marketing strategy and a business plan that fits your creativity and output. If you pm me, I can put you in touch with someone who will help you very reasonably, and who works with creatives such as yourself.

You don't really need a partner imo, you need someone to do the marketing and pr whilst you do the fun creative stuff and build your brand.

[Switcherpoo]

I recommend this course. It's completely free and you don't need to bank with NatWest. If you go for the pre-accelerator course, you learn everything you need to know; and whether you have a chance of making it work. Good luck!

https://www.business.natwest.com/business/business-banking/services/entrepreneur-accelerator.html?adobemcc_sdid=SDID%3D462BB51D4EF1CDBD-1A4E13EAF49DCCD8%7CMCORGID%3DC50417FE52CB33480A490D4C%40AdobeOrg%7CTS%3D1543189421

[MinoMlc]

Thank you both. I will register for the course, Switcherpoo. And I will bear in mind your offer, Winterhatsandgloves.

[BellaNgo]

I suggest co-working spaces, even just a few days a week! It will allow you to be a part of a community of people who are facing very similar experiences/feelings! It certainly works for me and I can really see the difference in my productivity and work satisfaction level. It feels good to have a tribe where you belong! X

[MinoMlc]

Thank you BellaNgo. I have started to look into this, hoping to find a suitable space in my area. The word 'tribe' is spot on, I think it is was I crave the most!

[annateresa]

Hi
It is great that you have decided to run your own business and promise me not to give up your idea. The beginnings are always difficult.
Is there in your town some business group you can join. Ask your local council. You could meet there some like minded people and may find a business partner. If you restore some old furniture may be some local antique shops would be interested in your pieces. Put your stuff on Facebook and Instagram for people to see.

[MinoMlc]

Thank you for your support annateresa! I have started to join local and online groups and have signed up to local market! Wish me luck! x