Connie Abirached of Inky Dink T's
Meet Connie Abirached, Founder of Inky Dink T's.
When and why did you start your business?
I started it in May of 2011, mainly to supplement my husband’s income. Also, I like to stay busy, and I knew that this “niche” business would succeed in my region.
Did you consider yourself an entrepreneur before that?
I’ve always worked for myself. First, as a freelance graphic designer, then I sold personalized children’s books, and then had a home party business. I also started Just Ask Graphics, my own graphic design company.
Where did you find your first employee?
I don’t have employees yet. Since I run the company out of my home, however, I do get help now and then from my husband and kids on really large jobs.
What state or local resources did you take advantage of and how did they help?
As soon as I knew I was ready to write my business plan, I contacted Marty Densmore from SCORE. I had worked with him when I was a designer for another company, and I liked his work ethic and vast business knowledge. He helped me get all my ducks in a row for my business plan, and it paid off big time!
What’s the most difficult thing about running your own business?
Right now it’s leaving work. Since the business is in my home, it’s always here. It’s one of my New Year’s resolutions.
What’s the best thing?
It’s being at home with my family while I am working! I can make my own schedule.
What has contributed most to your growth?
Definitely word-of-mouth. I’ve done a lot of volunteering with my church and local community, making friends and networking. Then with my name and photo in newspaper articles for winning a SCORE award, the phone keeps ringing, and I couldn’t be happier.
What companies or founders do you admire and why?
I learned a great deal from Bonnie White, head of Bonnie White & Associates in Montgomery, Ohio. I did freelance design for her for many years. She was a wonderful mentor for me as woman, mother, boss, friend, and, of course, business owner.