Wednesday, March 31, 2010

The kind of big (but necessary) step that makes you have butterfiles in your stomach!

I've recently decided to look into some career options that make me have butterflies in my stomach.  What is this big (but necessary) step?  Opening a public studio where I can teach hands-on classes in feltmaking and fiber arts!

This is something that my husband and I have discussed for quite a long time with much consideration and, at times, great debate.  It is also something that is not going to happen over night, but I would like it to happen in the near future.  After selling online and at shows for several years, I feel the need to take the next step and have a public venue place of my own.  I would also like to be able to move my studio work space out of my home basement and have an area where I can teach fiber classes.

To work towards this goal, I have recently begun to research and seek out funding sources.  This includes artist and small business grants and loans.  My husband and I have discussed all the expenses that we know of involved in opening a public studio so I have a good idea of what it will take in finances, planning, and documentation.  I am still researching funding options as well as the business structure.  Although I've had a home based business studio for quite some time, I know that having a public space will be a change in several aspects. 

As I stated, this is just the very beginning stages, but I feel good about it so far.  Don't get me wrong, I am a bit nervous about it all - it is a big step for me!  I am just going to take it one day at a time and see where things lead me.  If it happens, it happens.  If something else comes of it, that is okay too.

For those of you who have been down this road before or have some kind of public space of your own, your advice and suggestions are greatly appreciated.  Feel free to leave a comment!

3 comments:

  1. Not sure where you are located Shalana, but if the commercial /real estate market is anything like here in FL , there should be a huge selection of commercial and office space..... you should be able to shop around and hard ball your way into a great lease.......best of luck with your new endeavor....you go girl!!

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  2. Oh Shalana--What an exciting step!
    You are so generous and kind, I know that you will be just amazing in your new venue!! Good luck in finding the perfect set-up for your new enterprise!!!

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  3. Good luck Shalana! I'm sure you will do well! If I were located anywhere near you, I would definitely take your classes. Your work is amazing!

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