Things I Have Learned the First Year In Business...

Dearest Rosebuds,

We are almost one-year old! Can you believe it? I can't! What went from a daydream came to fruition with some luck, determination and old-fashioned elbow grease. (I hate that phrase. Why did I use that...???)

I have never owned a business before, and I have learned so much this past year. It's been crazy and fun. Mr. Rose and I were talking about all of the things we have learned. Here are some tidbits:

1. You better really love it. I am sure that you hear people say that, but it's a cliche for a reason. I eat, sleep, and dream Vivian Rose. Of course, I have days where I take a break, but if I don't care, who will? It's up to me to keep working on my dream. I have come too far to back off now. There is a true sense of accomplishment that I have built this little business (mostly) on my own (with Mr. Rose.)

2. Being a new business owner can be EXPENSIVE. You may think you know the costs. Trust me, there will be more.

3. Owning a clothing business is unique in the fact that everyone will tell you what they hate about his or her own bodies. Everyone has body issues. EVERYONE.

4. Your friends and family want to help. The level at which they are/were willing to help has always astounded me and filled me with gratitude.

5. You will be tired. My eyes now have under-eye bags the size of a gypsy caravan. This is just how I look now.

6. It can be very isolating. I don't really know anyone else that owns a clothing business. So, when I have questions or concerns, I don't have an outlet. Plus, there are many days when I have minimal human contant.

7. There will be days when you question LITERALLY every choice you make and have made.

8. You will feel PROUD. I will end on that one. I am so, so glad I took this risk and started my own business. I don't know where this road will take us, but I am so happy that I put myself out there. I hope you do too.

s