Today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur is an artist, a business starter, and everything in between. Unhappy at a desk job, she decided it was time to put her dream into action and open Crafteria – a place that serves art, not food…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am an artist and entrepreneur who owns a gallery and workshop called Crafteria. It is my own personal studio; a place where I create and display my artwork. It also a place where both children and adults can come and explore their own creative passions through drop-in art sessions, workshops and private parties. Every day is a new creative adventure at Crafteria!
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
As an artist, I have always dreamed of being able to express myself through art. There are so few artistic outlets for people in Montreal, that I wanted to create a space where not only I can work on my own artistic career and showcase my work, but where others can come and create art on a whim. Art is good for the soul, not matter what age.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
There are many rewards to my job, like seeing one of my paintings find a new home.
I also really love when children walk into the studio with a huge smile on their face and cannot wait to get started on their own masterpiece.
The most challenging part of the job is owning and operating a business all by myself. The creative aspects come a lot more easily to me than the business side of things.
Where do you see yourself in five years?
In five years, I hope to be able to turn Crafteria into a franchise and have studios across Canada. I also hope to be showing my artwork internationally, in shows such as Art Basel and the like.
What does success look like to you?
Success is waking up in the morning and being excited to go to work. To be happy in what you do with your life and to actually make it work is a rare feat.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
The most memorable milestone thus far has been the realization that I have taken my dream and made it a reality. Most businesses don’t survive their first year, but I am proud to say that I have just made the one-year mark, and I hope that this is only the beginning.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Never give up on your dream. Taking the leap into the unknown and the journey that comes with will be the hardest and most rewarding experience of your life.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support many charities, mainly those that have to do with the arts, children and animals. I like to give back to my community, because everyone deserves a fighting chance.
What to you is notable?
Being able to find happiness in life amongst the chaotic world we live in.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
Sometimes I feel like I live in the Stone Age, I’m terrible with technology. But I am addicted to Moleskins and Post-Its!