When I was a child, I remember people asking me what I wanted to be when I grew up. I’m pretty sure I never once responded to that question by saying, “I want to be an entrepreneur.” As a child, I had never once considered the possibility of owning my own handmade business. Yet, here I am, sole proprietor of Elaine Searer, Sewing & Alterations, and I’m loving it!
Three Reasons I Started My Own Business
My top three reasons for owning my own handmade business are as follows:
1. Opportunity to work in my own home
2. Setting my own schedule (except during my busy season)
3. Satisfaction of doing work that is appreciated by my customers.
Not only do I make custom items, but I also do alterations. I find it extremely satisfying to take a garment that someone couldn’t use and turn it into something that fits and works for that person. I feel that same satisfaction when I take two pieces of fleece fabric and make a car seat poncho that will keep a child warm all winter long.
My husband and I have created a comfortable, practical sewing studio in the basement of our home. It’s one of my favorite places to spend time. I am very thankful that I can contribute financially in a way that is enjoyable and fulfilling.
Flexibility
Before I became an entrepreneur, I was a high school English teacher. I liked that job, too. The time I spent in the classroom with my students was especially enjoyable for me. I did find, however, that I was not well-suited to running my life by a system of bells. I craved an opportunity to be more in charge of my own schedule.
Owning my own business doesn’t mean that I can work only when I feel like it, but my schedule is flexible. My husband, Jack, and I start every day with coffee and a “business meeting” in our living room. We love our local customers whom we see face-to-face. It’s fun to follow our packages that are sold in my Etsy shop and here in my own online store as they travel across the U.S.A. and Canada. Our customers often make our day with their orders and positive feedback for my products.
For right now, I’m fully convinced that I’m doing exactly what God created me to do right here in the space that He’s given me. If anyone would ask me what I’d like to be doing with my life, I’d proudly tell them, “I’m already doing it!”
Licensed fabrics that have favorite TV and movie characters on them are quite popular especially with children. I often receive requests to make ponchos or bibs using licensed fabrics from Disney, John Deere, NFL teams and other companies.
Just this morning, I made this Paw Patrol