We recently connected with Kimberli Davino-wilson and have shared our conversation below.
Kimberli , thanks for joining us, excited to have you contributing your stories and insights. Looking back, do you think you started your business at the right time? Do you wish you had started sooner or later
Honestly, I am glad I didn’t start my business sooner (or later for that matter). I think the opportunity and desire to do so came about in the right season of my life. I decided I wanted to take the entrepreneurial journey in 2017, after my endometriosis diagnosis. I was working as a behavior therapist at a small center for Autism. We did therapy sessions and also had a Pre-K school program. I truly loved it and really did think that was where I was meant to be and what I was meant to do for the rest of my life. Or at least a very long time.
But whenever I started having more sick days than healthy ones, and when my body started to be in so much pain daily, and discomfort and overwhelm ruled my life, I knew I couldn’t do this job anymore. I knew I couldn’t work for anyone other than myself. Because I knew I had to be able to call the shots on the days I wasn’t feeling well and needed the day off or time to rest.
I wasn’t sure what I was going to do next but I knew I wanted it to be my own thing. I did numerous different things just to find ways to make money until I could figure out 100% what I was going to do with my life. Network marketing companies, freelance writing jobs, opening an Etsy shop, thrifting and selling clothes, were all roads I traveled down but none of those actually seemed like a fulfilling career to me. I knew I could do so much more.
It wasn’t until 2018 I found my groove and opened up my own Social Media Management business. I have grown tremendously since then and have shifted and pivoted in so many different ways.
I definitely am glad I didn’t start sooner. Because I am grateful for all the opportunities and things I had learned in the 9-5 world before venturing into my own thing. I also think that if I had started sooner, certain opportunities wouldn’t have come my way. I am a firm believer that things happen in the time and manner they are supposed to.
My thoughts hold the same for not wishing I started later either. I think if I started later, again, I would have missed out on certain opportunities that had come my way. Or, I do also think that if I started later or waited too long, I would have maybe never ended up moving forward with creating a business.
So I wouldn’t change anything. I am grateful for the entire journey and ride I have been on. No matter how hard or stressful it has been, it has been a learning experience and I truly believe unraveling in its own beautiful time.
Kimberli , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
My first business is Cobblestone and Moss. It is a virtual Savannah travel guidebook! I may be a little biased, but it is an amazing resource for not only first timers coming to Savannah but also repeat visitors and locals themselves. There is so much to do and see in Savannah, even if you have been here a million times, there is always something new popping up to check out, which is why we update our guide weekly!
My goal is to take the guesswork out of trip planning, providing visitors with curated recommendations and insider tips that go beyond the usual tourist spots. (of course there are my favorite tourist spots included as well, though). There is nothing better than experiencing Savannah through the eyes of a local. With our guide you can dive straight into the authentic charm of Savannah, ensuring every moment of your visit is memorable and enriching.
I think what sets us apart is our exclusive discounts inside the guide, along with really focusing on local artisans. I feel they do not get enough notice, especially from visitors and they are all just so talented. So, I have really tried to include an inclusive space for them! Of course, the off-the beaten path things to do and see is a bonus as well.
There are great resources out there but sometimes it can be a little too generic. I think sharing my personal experiences and favorites, is a nice touch for visitors, to make them feel like a complete insider while here.
Another goal of mine is to help visitors fully enjoy every minute of their trip instead of wasting time on Google, trying to figure out what the heck to do, where to go or what to eat! With our guide, everything is broken down into categories and is easy to access, along with everything being linked to easily access menus, reservations, etc. We also make sure to highlight events going on each month, making it easy for you to see what may be happening during your stay. And can’t forget my sample itinerary along with my freebie itinerary to download and fill in yourself.
I am proud of the personal touch and hard work I have put into this guide. As a local, I have a deep love for Savannah, and it is such a blessing to share its unique beauty with others. I want my readers to know that Cobblestone and Moss is more than just a guidebook – it’s your key to unlocking the heart and soul of Savannah. My mission is to provide you with a resource that saves you time, offers convenience, and immerses you in the local culture of our beautiful city.
With our guide- you will discover the best places to eat, drink, stay and explore. All while enjoying the comfort of knowing you have a trusted local’s perspective. And if you see me out and about, please do not hesitate to say hello!
You can grab our guide for $8! If you book a hotel with Kimpton Brice, you can get a 35% discount on the guide, as well! I have also added customized itineraries- so be sure to reach out if you are interested in one! I will also be adding another special service for those getting engaged ;) Details to be continued!
Lastly, if you are a business owner or creative, seeking a virtual business community to connect with others, find support and not do this whole entrepreneurship alone then check out my other business, the Magic Makers Community! We would love to have you. Right now – we are offering one month free, to test it out and see if it is for you.
What do you think helped you build your reputation within your market?
I believe my reputation has been built on a foundation of authenticity and a strong connection with the local community. By focusing on highlighting local businesses and offering a genuine local perspective, I’ve created a space where both travelers and locals can find value. Consistency in providing helpful content, like my guidebook, and engaging with my audience in a relatable and fun way has helped me stand out.
When it comes to my online business community, being open about my personal journey, including navigating chronic illness, has allowed me to build trust and connect with others on a deeper level. I am unapologetically real. I show up as myself and say it how it is, whether I’m sharing the hard or the good. Chronic illness has been a significant part of my journey, and being open about it has allowed people to connect with me in ways I never anticipated. I believe that sharing both the struggles and the wins is crucial because it builds trust. People know that when I show up, they’re getting the real me, and that honesty is something many can relate to.
Any advice for growing your clientele? What’s been most effective for you?
The most effective strategy for growing my clientele has been a mix of collaborations, attending networking events, and having genuine, real conversations—both online and in person. Collaborating with local businesses and other entrepreneurs has allowed me to reach new audiences in an authentic way. Meeting people through social media and networking events has helped me build meaningful relationships that go beyond just business transactions. For me, it’s all about building community and connection, not just growing numbers. I focus on creating real, lasting relationships, and that’s what has truly made the difference.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.cobblestoneandmoss.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cobblestoneandmoss
- Other: www.lifewithkimberli.com (you can find Magic Makers here!)
Image Credits
All mine.