About Darla
Hi, I'm Darla...
It's so nice to meet you!
"Why fit in when you were born to STAND OUT." Dr. Seuss
I love this quote because it's true. So let's talk about you...
Let me ask you a question, do you feel like you are standing out? Or are you hiding? What about authentically and clearly sharing what makes you different?
Most of us want to fit in and be a part of the crowd.
I get it, I did too. I did for years... Then I realized, that's not helping anyone. Not my audience. Definitely not my business. Because when you fit in, you can't be heard or seen.
Here's the deal... if you are in business, you are a brand.
Being in business for yourself is both rewarding and stressful and changes all the time.
The fact is if you want to be successful, you have to market yourself.
That can feel pushy and makes you uncomfortable.
You know it's part of being in business. Without sales, you are out of business. Or worse if you don't figure out a way that feels right to you, you'll never really be in business. You will be a very hard-working hobbyist.
You wish you had a crystal ball to know where to go and wonder who to turn to for advice. Someone who cares and can relate to you and someone you can trust.
You’ve worked hard and long... and you're tired. Dealt with not so nice customers. Though the thought of going back to work for someone else makes you sick inside. You've had your fair share of awful bosses. And you've come to realize there is no security working for someone else either.
You simply need a guide
Many are so close to their products or services or they don't know where to start. Often becoming frustrated and stuck building their business.
They need a strategy.
I help intentional women entrepreneurs create a clear and consistent brand story and online presence so they authentically resonate with their dream clients and community.
Designing authentic brand identities, marketing stories and online strategies I work with purpose-driven women who are ready to align their personality and purpose with profits so they can make the impact they want in the world.
I'm passionate about helping connect and transform so they mesmerize their idea clients with their brand and grow their business!
3 Good Reasons We Should Chat:
- You need a catalyst: someone that genuinely understands advises and has helped others like you.
- You need an out of the box problem solver: someone that can provide a wealth of experience and refreshing ideas. Let's face it, you’re too close to your business.
- You need a trusted partner: someone who has a vested interest in your success wins only when you win, and has helped others do the same.
My Story
After a successful nine years in the corporate world, my husband and I decided it was time for me to leave. We had a newborn son to raise. The heartbreak of a previous miscarriage and stress with a horrible boss was enough. It was the push I needed to close that chapter and begin a new one.
My first business was not glamorous or creative, but it was successful and organized. I ran a daycare for four years. Following my intuition, I began my side hustle in art and design and it grew.
The fact is I didn’t focus on the foundation of my creative business. I did not know my "why" or mission. I did not know who my audience was or how valuable it would be to understand them. I did not realize how important marketing is, especially to the right people and in the right way.
Yet, I was quite successful for a while.
I began managing a paint your own ceramic shop. Which evolved establishing my ceramic studio. With a fierce work ethic, I became a successful small business owner with a great team. Collections in stores and craft galleries from the east coast to the Mississippi river. Then the economy turned.
Some say you can't blame the economy for a business failing. I only know what was happening to my family and to other small business colleagues around me. Everyone was closing their doors.
Overworked and stressed beyond words, I had little sleep and never saw my kids or husband. Though I knew something... this was not the life I wanted.
After agonizing and crunching numbers, we closed the shop. Exhausted, embarrassed, and depressed, I felt like a complete failure.
I realized nothing is a failure, it's a way to learn and grow. Through deep personal reflection, and peeling a lot of layers... I realized something.
I realized it wasn't my passion or calling
Still stressed and down, I was also relieved. I wanted more precious time with my family and I wanted to do something that mattered. The cycle of almost, small wins or short successes had to end.
As I began peeling my layers, my previous clients continued to hire me. Word spread. I designed logos, branded packaging and marketing materials for entrepreneurs to small businesses alike.
I began investing in myself.
Over the years I have invested several thousand in learning. Taken courses and worked with coaches. Participated in online programs and attend conferences and in Masterminds. I built great relationships. Word spread more and my portfolio expanded. I designed brand identities, websites, social media marketing and email materials and more.
There Is No Easy Button For Small Biz Brands
Entrepreneurship is not a straight or easy path. It's curvy and messy and filled with the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. I have experienced both, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
Over the last five years, I've structured my business so I can work anywhere. I have an authentic brand, and a clear mission and purpose. I've peeled away the layers to uncover my values and understand what makes me different.
From Creative To Coach
I live a meaningful and mobile life that I love. Yet, as you read, it did not happen overnight.
Today I consult, train and serve as a catalyst for amazing women entrepreneurs to want to discover how to leverage their brand. An expert at helping people express themselves, I want the same success and results for you. You have a unique story that the world needs.
I want to help you define your story so you shine. Stop looking for the light, and start realizing you are the light!
"Be yourself, everyone else is taken." Oscar Wilde
You don't have to start your next chapter alone...
I have learned first hand, "there is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs". Though you don't have to be on the journey alone or invest in the time and training I did.
You are here for a reason. You've got a story to tell. You have a light to share with the world. I believe in what's possible for you and want to help you build on what you already have inside. It's time for the right people in the world to see you. To hear you.
Let's talk about YOU and your goals to connect you with your ideal clients!
