As a small business owner, I often find myself reflecting on the journey that has led me to where I am today. From the early days of juggling every task single-handedly to the present, where I’m fortunate to have a dedicated team supporting me, the growth of my business has been a testament to the power of collaboration and appreciation.

Celebrating the Backbone of My Business

On this Administrative Professionals Day, I want to extend my deepest gratitude to two individuals who have been instrumental in the success of my business: my Virtual Assistant (VA) and my photo assistant. Without their support, dedication, and talent, I’d still be downing in my one women show.

When I reflect on the early days of my entrepreneurial journey, I’m reminded of the sheer determination and passion that fueled my desire to build something from the ground up. Like many small business owners, I started out wearing multiple hats, juggling every aspect of my business with relentless drive and ambition.

In those initial stages, I relied heavily on the support of my husband and best friend, both of whom stood by me through every triumph and setback. Their unwavering support was a lifeline during those challenging times, and I am forever grateful for their presence in my life.

However, as any entrepreneur will attest, relying solely on the support of loved ones, while invaluable, can only take you so far. Despite their willingness to help, there were aspects of running a business that required specialized skills and expertise that they simply couldn’t provide.

As my business began to grow and evolve, I realized that if I wanted to take it to the next level, I needed to surround myself with a team of dedicated professionals who shared my vision and could help me navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

Assistants to Help Manage Tasks

I began by hiring a Virtual Assistant to help with basic administrative tasks, such as editing and posting blog articles and managing my social media accounts. With just a few hours of support each month, my VA provided much-needed relief and allowed me to focus on more revenue-generating activities. Mind you it took me a few VA’s to find the right fit, so be patient and keep trying.

As my business continued to expand, so did my need for additional support. In 2022, I took the leap and hired my first photo assistant, and it was truly a game-changer. With her assistance, I was able to streamline my photo sessions, tackle more elaborate projects, and deliver an even higher level of service to my clients.

But my gratitude doesn’t stop there. I also want to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of my photo editing team, who have helped alleviate the burden of editing and retouching photos, allowing me to focus on growing my business and serving my clients.

My Suggestions for Your Business

1. Start Small and Prioritize: When budgets are tight, it’s essential to prioritize tasks that can be outsourced. Begin by identifying the areas of your business where you spend the most time and where outsourcing could provide the most significant relief. Whether it’s administrative tasks, social media management, or editing, starting with just a few hours of support can make a world of difference.

2. Utilize Virtual Assistants: Virtual assistants (VAs) can be invaluable assets for small businesses, offering flexible support without the overhead costs associated with hiring full-time employees. Start by hiring a VA for a few hours a month to tackle specific tasks like email management, scheduling, or basic graphic design. As your business grows, you can increase their hours and responsibilities accordingly.

3. Seek Out Affordable Resources: In today’s digital age, there are countless resources available for outsourcing tasks at affordable rates. Platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, and TaskRabbit connect businesses with freelancers and contractors offering a wide range of services, from graphic design to content creation. Additionally, consider reaching out to local colleges or universities to connect with students or recent graduates who may be eager to gain experience and offer their services at a lower cost.

Happy Administrative Professionals Day

I am eternally grateful for the support of my VA, photo assistant, and entire team. Their dedication, talent, and commitment have been the backbone of my business, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without them. So here’s to celebrating their hard work, dedication, and unwavering support on this Administrative Professionals Day and every day. Thank you for being the driving force behind my success.

Scroll below to see various brand teams I’ve worked with during my shoots!