Overcomer Series with Brenna Milleville
What do you do?
I started a Christian and Inspirational design company! I made t-shirts, onesies, iPhone cases, canvases, bags, and wall decor! I sell them on my website, Elly & Grace, and on Etsy.
Growing up, did you always dream that you would be doing what you’re doing now?
I always knew that I wanted to be in business for myself or in a small company, but no! I didn’t have any idea that I would be doing what I’m doing now. It’s still pretty surprising that God placed this idea in me and I’m still just in awe of his plan.
What made you decide to “go for it” in terms of your career goals/ambitions?
I was feeling a little stifled creatively in my regular job, and I really needed something for myself. My church was having a women’s event that I had tried to ignore because I didn’t want to go alone. Two days before the event, I really had a feeling like I should go. I decided that if I texted one of my very busy friends and she could go, then we would go. During the event, I saw a shirt that I really liked but they were sold out of my size. Then, during the message, the speaker talked about going for it! So, I thought and prayed about it for a few days and then decided to start designing and then launched my website about a month later.
Did you face adversity? How did you overcome that?
My biggest challenge is directing traffic to my website. I love designing so much that in the first few months I wasn’t as focused on marketing. I’m trying to market more and design less, which is hard because designing is my first love!
A lot of women have these big goals & big ideas that they’d like to bring to life, what advice would you give them in terms of how they can make that happen?
Be confident in yourself and your ideas! Don’t let others bring you down. (and yes, I’m talking to myself too as I’m writing this!) Know what you are good at and OWN IT!
What’s the biggest regret you have when it comes to your blog/shop/business?
Well, the idea for the business came around at the exact right time. But, so far my biggest regret is not getting on etsy sooner. I get quite a big of traffic from etsy, but I’m still struggling in getting traffic to my main website.
What’s been your proudest moment so far?
My proudest moment was when I got my first wholesale order! I’m still very excited about it. It’s really inspiring to see someone take an interest in something that I have created.
And, just because we like our coffee around here, how do you take yours? 🙂
I actually don’t like coffee- I’m more of a hot chocolate gal. And I love it with caramel or mint and extra marshmallows!
I believe in the story of the overcomer. That has been my story and I believe that is your story too. We want your journey here on the blog to help encourage others just like you and me. If you’d like to share that with us, please come over and share your story with us!
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