Small business, BIG Reward

We are in the middle of National Small Business Week 2018!  This is a week created by the U.S. Small Business Administration “to recognize the nation’s top small businesses, entrepreneurs, small business advocates and champions.  Every day they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.”  

It just occurred to me that I passed my 4 year anniversary of leaving  my corporate job at Nordstrom on April 28, 2014 to pursue my dream of creating my own small business.  My wife Christy was 7 months pregnant with our daughter Cambria that would be born on June 23, 2014.  Looking back, it seems slightly nuts to leave a corporate job 2 months before my first child was to be born, or that my 7-month pregnant wife would support such a decision!  

When making the decision, I was very focused on the merits and financial validity of endeavoring to build Verona Villa.  One of the things I naively did not consider was the impact it would have on my ability to be there for my family.  While of course there was stress and hard work, I was able to be present with Christy on the home stretch of her pregnancy and we truly enjoyed that time together.  Once Cambria was born, I was able to balance the needs of bringing my business dream to life while spending quality time with my dream that has just been fulfilled - our beautfiful baby girl.  

Starting a small business has been hands down the hardest thing I have ever done.  I had to be an expert in so many areas and had to laugh when I would receive a call asking to speak to the accounting department or HR - sure hold on, how can I help you.  It was all me.  

Starting a small business has changed my outlook on everything.  I cannot help but looking at a retaining wall in a parking lot and adding up in my head how much it cost the owner.  I cannot sit in a restaurant without wondering how the owner found access to capital.  I know firsthand that the world is not set up for a small business owner - obtaining health insurance, getting a home mortgage - these things just are not set up for us.

But, through it all, I wouldn’t change a thing.  I am blessed for the struggles, the lessons, the friendships and more than anything being able to be there for my family.  I am grateful for the folks that choose us for their event space needs and for experiencing the laughter, the joy, the learning and the inspiration that takes place in our space.  It is a true pleasure to see vendors that have small businesses have a place that I created to execute their talents and services. We have created thousands of hours of work for an amazing group which is one of things I am proudest of.

Big business is beautiful and important.  Small business is the engine that drives our nation forward.  Let’s all remember to support the folks that are working hard and took a chance to go out on their own to support their families and employees and celebrate their achievements and #shopsmall!