White & Co Living
Like Minds Create is an online hub of inspiration & information, connecting passionate, creative business minds, and promoting collaboration & co-working. They capture profiles of people making a career change to follow their passion, so we couldn't think of a better person to interview on this subject than White & Co Founder, Krissy Brown!
You followed your passion, what are you doing now?
Running a very busy on-line homewares, fashion and lifestyle website – White and Co.
What were you doing before this?
I started a blinds, curtains and interior decorating business as an ‘on the side’ passion/money earner whilst I was working full time in a senior marketing role at a large company. The decorating etc…gave me a reason to get out of bed every day as I had had enough of the corporate environment. Lucky for me the business took off and I have spent the last 11 years decorating homes!
Why the change?
White and Co. was always in the back of my mind. I felt there was a gap in the market for quality, unique finds and I wanted to share all the great products I was discovering. It was the last step in my plan as it uses my two strengths; marketing and decorating. It’s the best professional decision I have ever made.
How did you do it? What steps did you follow?
Seven months of blood, sweat and tears! I wanted to be 100% happy with the website and products we were selling so I gave myself a long lead up to the launch. We launched on March 1st of this year and I can honestly say that prior to launch day we had everything organised and in working order. Since the day we launched we have been super busy. Some days I look at the orders and have to pinch myself.
What skills did you have that were relevant and what new skills have you had to learn?
I have a Marketing degree and had also worked in marketing for many years I have also completed a Decorating course and run a business in this field so I had the skills re the website/social media and was also across the current trends due to my decorating business.
Has the business or your role evolved since you took those first steps?
Yes, I have learnt how important it is to outsource when the time is right! It’s one of the best steps I have taken. I employ someone to help with the marketing, social media and PR. This has freed up a lot of my time and I have been able spend time to exploring other opportunities for the business. I still wear many hats, this is just one I don’t have to juggle now!
What do you love most about the change you made?
I genuinely love what I do. How many people can say that? I always knew I was going to have an on-line business/White and Co. I just had to wait until I had enough time to put into it. It’s been great to receive so much positive feedback from customers too. I’m married with 2 school age children and I wanted to make sure my kids were old enough for me to put in the time I needed to.
What advice would you give others thinking about following your move into an online business?
It’s extremely rewarding to see the completed website and products you are offering. It is however a roller coaster ride. I work long hours and put 110% into everything I do so you have to be prepared to put the hard work in. Over the years I’ve learnt that good old fashioned hard work definitely equals success!
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