We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Chantee Lackey-williams. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Chantee below.

Chantee, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What’s been one of the most interesting investments you’ve made – and did you win or lose? (Note, these responses are only intended as entertainment and shouldn’t be construed as investment advice)

The best investment I’ve ever made as a business owner was an investment in myself—believing in myself enough to take the risk of starting my entrepreneurial journey over 12 years ago.

It took a lot of mindset shifts to get to that point. When I turned 18, I immediately got two jobs, working at Walmart and a circus office. I was trying my best to stay busy. After a couple of months, I realized that traditional employment wasn’t for me. I went to a temp agency for some variety, but two months into that, I had emergency spinal cord surgery, which forced me to quit all my jobs.

I spent a month in the hospital and three months in a nursing home. When I went to live with my mom, I realized that if I wanted to make money, it would have to be online. I went back to college, took some technical classes, got my degree in front- and back-end coding, and started freelancing from home on Facebook.

This investment in myself—in my education and my ability to adapt—was the catalyst for my entrepreneurial journey. It taught me the importance of resilience, self-belief, and the willingness to embrace new opportunities, even in the face of adversity.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

For those who haven’t had the pleasure of reading about me before, let me introduce myself! I’m a passionate creative professional with a multifaceted skill set and a heart for helping others. My journey began with a desire to make a positive impact on people’s lives, which initially led me to pursue a career in social work. However, a chance encounter with graphic design ignited a spark within me, revealing a hidden passion for visual communication.

I started with graphic design, honing my skills in crafting compelling visuals that tell stories and capture attention. As my passion grew, I expanded my expertise to include web design, recognizing the importance of creating digital experiences that seamlessly blend aesthetics and functionality. Along the way, I discovered the power of brand strategy, social media marketing, email marketing, copywriting, and photography, realizing that these disciplines work in harmony to create a cohesive and impactful brand presence.

My journey has been one of continuous learning and evolution, driven by a desire to provide comprehensive solutions for my clients. I understand the unique challenges faced by small business owners, and I’m dedicated to empowering them with the tools and strategies they need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

What sets me apart is not only my multifaceted skill set but also the resilience and determination that have shaped my journey. When I was in school, my primary mode of transportation was the bus, and I relied on a walker to get around. I took classes at different schools, which meant navigating challenging commutes, especially during harsh Wisconsin winters.

I vividly remember one snowy morning, walking to the bus stop two miles away from my home. The snow was coming down hard, and I was slipping and sliding, burdened by a heavy backpack. At one point, my walker got stuck in the ice, and I seriously considered giving up and going back home. But then I thought about my passion for design, and that kept me going. I pushed through the snow and ice, determined to reach my destination.

That experience taught me the importance of perseverance and the power of passion. It’s a reminder that even when faced with obstacles, the love for what you do can propel you forward. I approach each project with that same spirit, infusing my work with the dedication and resilience that have defined my journey.

I’m immensely proud of the transformative impact my work has on small businesses. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their confidence soar and their brands flourish. My ultimate goal is to empower my clients to embrace their unique identity and confidently share their passion with the world.

If you’re seeking a creative partner who is genuinely invested in your success, who approaches each project with a blend of creativity, technical skill, strategic thinking, and unwavering determination, I invite you to connect with me. Let’s collaborate and create something extraordinary together.

What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?

Consistency has been key to building my reputation. I believe in showing up consistently in every aspect of my business, whether it’s on social media, through emails, videos, or at networking events. This consistent presence helps me stay top-of-mind with my audience and demonstrates my dedication to my craft and my clients.

What’s been the best source of new clients for you?

Social media and relationship building have been the most effective sources of new clients. It’s not just about showcasing your work online; it’s about sharing lifestyle content, letting your audience connect with your personality, understand your communication style, and see your “why.” Sharing your struggles and wins transparently goes a long way in building trust.

Once you know your ideal client, stay true to that vision and don’t hesitate to say no to those who don’t align with your values. If you do exceptional work for clients you enjoy working with, they’re likely to refer you to people in their circle.

Remember, birds of a feather flock together. Taking the time to nurture genuine relationships with your current clients can lead to a steady stream of referrals. In my experience, focusing on building strong relationships has resulted in a shift away from relying solely on social media for new business.

Most importantly, show up as your true, authentic self. You won’t impress everyone, and that’s okay. What you will do is attract the people who truly align with you, and that’s what matters most.

Embrace the inevitable learning curve, recognizing that mistakes are opportunities for growth. Actively network and build relationships with fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and potential clients to create a supportive ecosystem. Focus relentlessly on providing exceptional value to your customers, as their satisfaction fuels referrals and repeat business. Set realistic goals, track your progress diligently, and remain flexible enough to pivot when necessary. Remember to prioritize self-care amidst the demands of entrepreneurship.

Celebrate your wins, big and small, to maintain motivation and a positive outlook. Seek guidance from a mentor who has navigated similar challenges. Stay organized to streamline operations, and above all, be patient, understanding that building a successful business takes time and unwavering dedication.

Contact Info:

• Website: http://selflovecook.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chanteelackey/
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@theselflovecook

Image Credits

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