Chasing the Dream: Don’t Let Anyone Stop Your Small Business Journey
Starting and running a small business is one of the most rewarding journeys you can take – but it’s not always easy. Along the way, you’re likely to face challenges, doubts, and even naysayers who question your dreams.
As the owner of October Rust Designs, I’ve learned that the road to success isn’t about avoiding criticism or setbacks – it’s about pushing forward, staying true to your vision, and proving to yourself that you have what it takes.
If you’ve ever felt discouraged on your small business journey, this blog is for you.
The Dream Is Yours, Not Theirs
One of the most important lessons I’ve learned is that your dreams belong to you – not to the people around you.
Not Everyone Will Understand: Friends, family, or acquaintances might question your decisions, but that doesn’t mean your dream isn’t worth pursuing.
Doubt Often Comes From Fear: When people express skepticism, it’s often because they’re projecting their own fears or insecurities. Don’t let their limitations define your potential.
Your Vision Is Unique: No one else sees the world the way you do. That’s what makes your business special.
Overcoming the Naysayers
When others doubt your dream, it’s easy to internalize their negativity. Here’s how to stay focused:
Stay Grounded in Your "Why"
Remember why you started your business in the first place. Your passion and purpose are stronger than anyone’s doubts.Find Your Support System
Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you. Whether it’s a fellow entrepreneur, a mentor, or a close friend, their encouragement can make all the difference.Turn Criticism into Fuel
Let doubts motivate you to work harder, improve your craft, and prove that you can succeed.
Challenges Are Part of the Journey
Every small business owner faces obstacles – it’s how you respond to them that defines your success.
Rejection Isn’t Failure: Whether it’s a slow sales day or a customer who passes on your product, rejection is part of the process. Use it to refine your approach and grow.
Comparison Is the Thief of Joy: It’s easy to look at others and feel like you’re not doing enough. Remember that every journey is unique, and your progress is your own.
Growth Takes Time: Success rarely happens overnight. Celebrate small wins and trust that consistent effort will pay off.
Staying True to Yourself
The beauty of being a small business owner is that you have the freedom to create something that’s authentically yours.
Follow Your Passion: When you stay true to what you love, your enthusiasm shines through and attracts the right customers.
Take Risks: Innovation often comes from stepping outside your comfort zone. Don’t be afraid to try new things or take bold steps.
Trust Your Gut: You know your business better than anyone. Trust your instincts and make decisions that align with your vision.
A Personal Note
When we started October Rust Designs, I faced my share of doubts – from others and from myself. But every time I questioned whether I could succeed, I reminded myself why I began this journey: to create meaningful, handcrafted home décor and to show my family that dreams are worth chasing.
If I had listened to the naysayers, I wouldn’t be where I am today. The truth is, no one else gets to decide what’s possible for you.
Dream Big, Work Hard, Keep Going
To my fellow small business owners: Don’t let anyone stop you. The world needs your creativity, your passion, and your unique perspective.
Your journey won’t be easy, but it will be worth it. And when you achieve your goals, you’ll look back and realize that every doubt and obstacle only made you stronger.
Keep dreaming, keep building, and most importantly – keep believing in yourself. The best is yet to come.
Knowing Your Worth: If You Build It, They Will Come
As a small business owner, one of the hardest lessons to learn is this: know your worth. It’s easy to doubt yourself when you’re pricing your work or wonder if anyone will actually buy what you’ve poured your heart into.
But here’s the truth I’ve learned at October Rust Designs: if you build something of value – something that reflects your passion, skill, and dedication – the right people will come.
Here’s why knowing your worth is crucial and how to trust that your audience will find you.
The Value in What You Create
When you make something by hand, you’re not just creating a product – you’re creating value in ways big-box stores can’t replicate.
Skill and Expertise: Your years of practice, trial and error, and mastery of your craft are priceless.
Time and Effort: Every piece you make represents hours of your life. It’s important to honor that time.
Personal Connection: Customers aren’t just buying an item; they’re buying a story, a piece of you, and something unique.
Pricing with Confidence
It’s tempting to underprice your items out of fear that no one will buy them. But undervaluing your work can hurt both you and your customers:
You Deserve to Be Paid Fairly: Your time, materials, and expertise are worth something. Pricing too low doesn’t reflect that.
Customers Value What They Invest In: When people pay a fair price, they see your work as something special, not disposable.
You Set the Standard: By pricing your items correctly, you help educate your customers about the value of handmade goods.
When I first started October Rust Designs, I struggled with pricing too. But once I aligned my prices with the true worth of my work, I found customers who appreciated the quality and care that went into every piece.
Trusting the Process: “If You Build It, They Will Come”
Believing in your worth doesn’t mean instant success – but it does mean building a foundation for the right customers to find you. Here’s how to make it happen:
Focus on Quality
When you’re confident in the quality of your work, it shows. Customers can see the difference between something made with care and something mass-produced.Connect with Your Audience
Share your process, your story, and the passion behind what you create. People love to support makers they feel connected to.Be Patient
It takes time to build a loyal customer base, but those who value your work will find you – and they’ll keep coming back.Stay True to Your Vision
Trends will come and go, but authenticity never goes out of style. Stick to what you’re passionate about, and you’ll attract customers who resonate with your vision.
The Rewards of Knowing Your Worth
When you embrace the value of your work, something amazing happens:
You Attract the Right Customers: The people who see your worth will support you wholeheartedly.
You Build Confidence: Owning your value helps you show up with pride and conviction.
You Create Sustainability: Fair pricing allows you to reinvest in your business and continue doing what you love.
A Final Thought
At October Rust Designs, I’ve learned that knowing your worth isn’t just about pricing – it’s about believing in yourself and the value you bring to the world.
If you’re a maker, creator, or entrepreneur, trust in your skills, your passion, and your process. Build it – with heart, authenticity, and care – and the right people will come.
To my customers: Thank you for seeing the value in handmade goods. Your support allows small businesses like mine to thrive and continue creating pieces that bring joy to your homes.
And to fellow makers: Keep building, keep believing, and keep showing the world the worth of your work.
Why Is This So Expensive?”: Understanding the True Cost of Handmade Items
As a small business owner and the maker behind October Rust Designs, I’ve heard it before: “Why is this so expensive?” It’s a question that stings, not because it’s asked, but because it’s rooted in misunderstanding.
In today’s world, where mass-produced items are available at big-box stores for a fraction of the cost, handmade products can seem pricey at first glance. But there’s so much more behind the price tag of a handcrafted piece.
Let’s break down why handmade items cost more – and why they’re worth every penny.
1. The Cost of Quality Materials
Unlike mass-produced goods, handmade items are crafted with care and attention to detail. This often means using higher-quality materials, which come at a premium.
Raw Materials: For my work, this might mean sustainably sourced wood, durable paints and finishes, and unique embellishments that aren’t cheap but ensure a product that lasts.
Small-Scale Purchasing: Big-box stores buy materials in bulk, often overseas, at a fraction of the cost. Small businesses don’t have that luxury, so we pay more per unit.
2. The Value of Time
Every handmade item represents hours of work – sometimes even days.
Designing: From sketching ideas to perfecting prototypes, the creative process takes time.
Crafting: Each piece is cut, sanded, assembled, and finished by hand. There’s no assembly line or shortcuts – just care and precision.
Customization: Many handmade items, including mine, can be tailored to customer preferences. This personal touch takes even more time.
3. The Invisible Costs of Running a Small Business
Behind every piece I sell is a business with its own expenses:
Equipment and Tools: The tools I use to create my products are an investment – and they require maintenance and occasional replacement.
Booth Fees and Advertising: Participating in craft fairs, running a website, and marketing on social media all come with costs.
Taxes and Fees: From sales tax to business licensing, these costs add up.
4. The Ethical Difference
Handmade items are often created under ethical conditions that prioritize fair labor and sustainability.
No Exploitation: Unlike mass-produced goods, handmade items aren’t the result of underpaid labor.
Sustainable Practices: Many small businesses, including mine, strive to minimize waste and source responsibly.
5. The Unique Factor
Every handmade item is one of a kind. It’s not churned out by a machine but crafted with passion, skill, and a personal touch. When you buy handmade, you’re buying more than a product – you’re buying a story.
The True Value of Handmade
When you purchase a handmade item, you’re not just paying for the product itself. You’re supporting:
A maker who pours their heart into their craft.
A family striving to create a meaningful livelihood.
A community of artisans working to keep traditions alive.
A Final Thought
At October Rust Designs, We take pride in every piece we create. Each item reflects hours of work, a commitment to quality, and a passion for making something special.
So the next time you see a price tag on a handmade product that makes you pause, remember: it’s not “expensive.” It’s valuable – because it’s made with care, integrity, and a whole lot of heart.
To my fellow artisans: Keep educating your customers. The more they understand the value of handmade work, the more they’ll appreciate it.
And to customers: Thank you for supporting small businesses. Your purchases mean the world to us – and they make a bigger impact than you might ever realize.
The Hidden Cost of Entrepreneurship: Burnout in Small Business Owners and Their Families
Owning a small business is often romanticized as the ultimate dream: doing what you love, being your own boss, and building something that reflects your passion. But what doesn’t get talked about enough is the toll it can take – not just on the business owner but on their family too.
Burnout is real, and for small business owners like myself at October Rust Designs, it’s an ever-present challenge. Juggling the demands of running a business with personal responsibilities can leave you drained, both physically and emotionally.
Here’s an honest look at what burnout feels like, how it affects families, and ways to manage it before it takes over.
The Everyday Grind
Burnout doesn’t happen overnight. It’s the result of constant effort without enough time to recharge. For small business owners, the causes are easy to spot:
Long Hours: There’s always more to do – creating products, managing finances, marketing, and handling customer service.
Uncertainty: The pressure of making sales, covering expenses, and staying relevant can feel relentless.
Wearing All the Hats: As a small business owner, you’re not just the creator; you’re the accountant, marketer, event planner, and more.
The Impact on Family
Burnout doesn’t just affect the business owner – it ripples out to their loved ones.
Time Sacrifices: Long hours in the workshop or at events often mean missing out on family dinners, weekend outings, or bedtime routines.
Emotional Strain: Stress and exhaustion can lead to irritability, withdrawal, or feeling disconnected from your family.
Financial Stress: When money is tight, it can create tension and worry within the household.
Recognizing the Signs of Burnout
If you’re a small business owner (or live with one), watch for these red flags:
Chronic fatigue or insomnia.
Loss of enthusiasm or creativity.
Increased frustration or feelings of helplessness.
Neglecting self-care or relationships.
Combating Burnout: Finding Balance
Burnout doesn’t have to be the end of the story. Here’s how I’ve been working to manage it:
Set Boundaries: Define work hours and stick to them. It’s okay to turn off the “business brain” for family time.
Delegate: If you can afford it, hire help or outsource tasks like bookkeeping or social media management.
Prioritize Self-Care: Whether it’s a walk, a hobby, or just a moment to breathe, taking care of yourself makes you a better business owner and family member.
Involve Your Family: Share your challenges and successes with your family. They might have insights or ideas to help, and it builds mutual understanding.
Celebrate Small Wins: Take time to acknowledge the progress you’ve made, even if it feels small. Gratitude can shift your perspective.
Building a Support System
No one succeeds alone. Lean on your community, whether it’s fellow small business owners, friends, or family. Sharing struggles and solutions can help lighten the load.
A Personal Note
At October Rust Designs, I’ve experienced burnout firsthand. There have been late nights when exhaustion felt overwhelming and moments when I questioned whether I could keep going. But through it all, my family has been my anchor, reminding me why we started this journey in the first place.
To fellow small business owners: You are not alone in this. Burnout is a sign that you’re working hard, but it’s also a sign that you need to pause and take care of yourself.
To families of entrepreneurs: Your support means the world. Your patience, encouragement, and love are what keep us going when the weight feels too heavy.
Success is worth pursuing, but not at the cost of your well-being or the relationships that matter most. Let’s make space for balance, self-care, and moments of joy – because both your business and your family will thrive when you do.
The Weight of Small Business Ownership in Today’s Economy
Owning a small business has always been a balancing act, but in today’s economic climate, the stakes feel higher than ever. Rising costs, supply chain issues, and unpredictable consumer habits have created a storm that’s tough for any entrepreneur to navigate.
As the owner of October Rust Designs, I’ve felt the pressure firsthand. While there’s still joy in crafting beautiful home décor and connecting with customers, the challenges of running a small business today are undeniable.
Here’s a look at some of the biggest stressors facing small business owners and how we’re working to adapt.
The Rising Cost of Everything
Inflation has impacted nearly every aspect of running a business:
Materials: The cost of wood, paint, and other supplies I rely on has skyrocketed. Items that used to be affordable are now eating into my margins.
Shipping: Whether it’s receiving raw materials or delivering finished products to customers, shipping fees are higher than ever.
Event Fees: Craft fairs and markets, once a reliable way to connect with customers, now come with increased booth fees.
Every price increase means tough decisions: absorb the cost, raise prices, or cut back in other areas.
Unpredictable Consumer Habits
The economy has also shifted how people spend. Many customers are more cautious with discretionary purchases, especially for items like home décor. Even when someone loves a product, hesitation about their own finances can delay or prevent a sale.
Supply Chain Challenges
Delays in receiving materials or finding alternatives for out-of-stock items can derail production schedules. For a small business, even minor delays can cause major stress, especially during busy seasons.
The Mental and Emotional Toll
Beyond the financial challenges, there’s the mental weight of it all:
Constant Worry: Will I meet my revenue goals this month? Can I cover my expenses?
Burnout: Working harder to compensate for economic challenges can lead to exhaustion.
Pressure to Perform: In a competitive market, there’s always pressure to stand out, even when resources feel stretched thin.
Adapting to the Times
Despite the challenges, small business owners are nothing if not resilient. Here’s how I’ve been adapting:
Adjusting Prices Thoughtfully: I’ve had to increase prices on some items to reflect rising costs, but I’m careful to explain why to customers. Transparency builds trust.
Diversifying Revenue Streams: In addition to markets, I’m focusing on online sales and collaborations with local businesses to reach new audiences.
Streamlining Production: Simplifying designs and finding cost-effective alternatives without sacrificing quality helps me stay efficient.
Connecting with Customers: Engaging with customers on social media and in person reminds them of the value of supporting small businesses.
The Importance of Community Support
In times like these, small businesses need their communities more than ever. Every purchase, share, or kind word makes a difference.
To my fellow small business owners: you’re not alone in feeling the weight of today’s challenges. Lean on your community, celebrate your wins – no matter how small – and remember why you started this journey.
To customers: when you shop small, you’re not just buying a product. You’re helping someone keep their dream alive in a tough economy. And for that, we’re endlessly grateful.
At October Rust Designs, I’m committed to weathering this storm, one handcrafted piece at a time, because the passion I have for my work is greater than the challenges I face.
The Grit Behind the Glamour: What They Don’t See About Small Business Success
From the outside looking in, running a small business can appear glamorous. A bustling booth at a craft fair, perfectly staged photos on Instagram, and posts celebrating sold-out collections paint a picture of success that’s inspiring to many.
But behind the scenes, there’s a reality few people see: the grit. The late nights, the early mornings, the trial and error, and the unshakable determination that drive every step forward.
As the owner of October Rust Designs, I’ve experienced both the shining moments and the ones that never make it to social media. Let me take you behind the curtain.
The Highlights Everyone Sees
It’s easy to look at a thriving small business and see only the wins:
A beautifully curated booth at a busy market.
Happy customers sharing photos of their purchases.
Posts about reaching revenue goals or expanding product lines.
These moments are real, and they deserve to be celebrated. They’re the rewards of hard work and dedication. But they’re just one part of the story.
The Grit No One Talks About
Here’s what often gets overlooked:
The Late Nights: For every beautifully finished piece, there’s a night spent in the workshop sanding, staining, and sealing long after everyone else has gone to bed.
The Early Mornings: Getting to events or markets often means waking up at dawn to load the car, set up the booth, and make everything look inviting before customers arrive.
The Sacrifices: Time with family, weekends, and even sleep often take a backseat during busy seasons.
The Self-Doubt: Every entrepreneur faces moments of questioning – “Will this sell? Is this idea good enough?” – but we push through.
The Hustle: Running a business isn’t just about creating. It’s bookkeeping, marketing, customer service, and planning – often all at once.
The True Meaning of Success
To outsiders, success might look like a growing bank account or a social media following. But for small business owners, it’s often measured in quieter ways:
A repeat customer who says, “I love your work.”
Finally perfecting a new design after weeks of effort.
Balancing the books and realizing you’ve grown compared to last year.
Building a brand that reflects your passion and purpose.
Why the Grit Is Worth It
Despite the challenges, there’s nothing quite like building something of your own. Knowing that every late night and early morning is an investment in your dream makes the grit worthwhile.
At October Rust Designs, I take pride in every piece I create, not just because of how it looks on a shelf but because of the journey it took to get there.
To Fellow Small Business Owners
If you’re in the thick of it – balancing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship – know that you’re not alone. The grit you’re putting in now is laying the foundation for your success.
To everyone else: when you see a small business thriving, remember there’s a story behind it. It’s not just about talent or luck; it’s about relentless hard work and unshakable perseverance.
So the next time you shop small, know you’re supporting not just a product but a dream – built with heart, grit, and determination.
Why Customers Touch and Walk Away (and Why It’s Not a Bad Thing)
If you run a small business, especially one selling handcrafted home décor like I do at October Rust Designs, you’ve likely experienced this: a customer walks into your booth or shop, their eyes light up, and they’re drawn to one of your items. They pick it up, turn it over, admire it… and then, just as quickly, they set it down and walk away.
It’s easy to feel a sting in moments like these. After all, every piece you’ve made is a labor of love. But before frustration sets in, let’s unpack what’s really happening here.
The Psychology of “Look, Touch, Walk Away”
Customers touch products for several reasons, and it’s not always about making an immediate purchase:
Curiosity and Connection: Touching helps people feel connected to what they’re seeing. The texture of woodgrain, the weight of a piece, or the smooth finish on a painted item – these tactile details are part of what makes your work special.
Shopping Is Emotional: For many, shopping is about more than acquiring things. People browse to be inspired, to imagine how something would look in their home, or to dream about future possibilities.
Budget or Hesitation: Sometimes, customers genuinely love your product but need more time to justify the expense or figure out where it fits into their home.
Why It’s Not a Bad Thing
At first glance, a touch-and-walk scenario might feel like rejection. But here’s the good news:
They Noticed You: They chose your product over countless others. That’s a win!
Future Customers: Touching your item creates a memory. When they’re ready to buy, they’re more likely to come back to the person whose work stood out.
Word of Mouth: Even if they didn’t purchase, they might tell others about “this amazing décor I saw at the market last weekend.”
Tips to Turn Touchers into Buyers
While not every touch will lead to a sale, here are a few strategies to increase the chances:
Engage Them: A simple “Hi! Let me know if you have any questions about that piece” can spark a conversation and help them envision the item in their life.
Tell the Story: Share the inspiration or process behind the piece they’re admiring. Personal stories resonate and create a deeper connection.
Encourage Interaction: Signage like “Feel the quality!” or “Pick me up!” invites people to interact with your products confidently.
Follow-Up Opportunities: Offer a business card or a flyer with your website or social media. If they walk away, make it easy for them to find you later.
Celebrate the Moments That Matter
Every customer who touches your product is part of your business’s journey. They may not buy today, but their interaction is a step forward – for them, for you, and for your brand.
At October Rust Designs, I’ve learned to appreciate these moments. They remind me that what I create is worth noticing, holding, and imagining – and that’s a success all on its own.
How To Set Up Your Vendor Booth: A Step-by-Step Guide to Stand Out and Succeed
It all begins with an idea.
Setting up a vendor booth can be an exciting yet challenging task. Whether you’re at a craft fair, farmers market, or trade show, your booth represents your brand and is the first impression potential customers will have. Here’s how to set up a vendor booth that not only attracts attention but also maximizes your chances of making sales.
1. Plan Your Layout
Start with a Sketch: Before the event, draw a rough layout of your booth. This will help you visualize how everything will fit and ensure you don’t forget any key elements.
Maximize Your Space: Use every inch of your allotted area efficiently. Vertical space can be just as valuable as horizontal space. Use shelves, racks, or tall displays to showcase your products at eye level.
Create a Flow: Make sure there’s a clear path for customers to walk through your booth. A cluttered space can be overwhelming and deter people from stopping by.
2. Design an Eye-Catching Display
Branding is Key: Your booth should reflect your brand’s identity. Use your brand colors, logos, and fonts consistently across all materials. This creates a cohesive and professional look.
Use Quality Signage: Invest in high-quality signs that are easy to read from a distance. Your business name, logo, and a brief tagline or description of what you offer should be prominently displayed.
Showcase Your Best Products: Highlight your best sellers or unique items. Place them at eye level or in the most visible spots to draw people in.
3. Engage the Senses
Visual Appeal: Bright, attractive displays catch the eye. Use a variety of colors, textures, and heights to create visual interest.
Sound: Soft background music can create a pleasant atmosphere. Ensure it’s not too loud, as it might deter conversation.
Smell: If appropriate, use pleasant scents to enhance the experience. For instance, if you sell candles or baked goods, let the natural scents do the talking.
4.Be Prepared
Stock Adequately: Bring enough inventory to avoid running out of popular items. It’s better to have too much than too little.
Have Essentials Handy: Keep items like business cards, brochures, and promotional materials easily accessible. Consider offering small freebies like stickers or samples to attract more visitors.
Bring Tools and Supplies: Pack essentials such as scissors, tape, pens, a cash box, and a card reader. Being well-prepared will help you handle any situation that arises.
5. Engage with Customers
Be Approachable: Greet everyone with a smile. Make eye contact and be ready to engage in friendly conversation. People are more likely to buy from someone they feel connected to.
Tell Your Story: Share the story behind your products. Customers love to know the background and inspiration of what they’re buying.
Offer Demonstrations: If possible, show your products in action. Demonstrations can attract crowds and help customers understand the value of your items.
6. Analyze and Improve
Take Notes: After the event, jot down what worked and what didn’t. Pay attention to customer feedback and any recurring questions.
Refine Your Setup: Use the insights gained to improve your booth for the next event. Small tweaks can lead to significant improvements in customer engagement and sales.