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Imagine stepping into a world where creativity meets relentless determination. Cheryl, a seasoned designer, embodies that very essence. Having started her career in the realm of public relations and navigating through the digital landscape, she now leads WoW! Graphic Designs, a vibrant agency that empowers women entrepreneurs. Her story isn’t just about business; it’s about balancing life’s many facets while nurturing a passion that has only grown over the years.
From public relations to graphic design
Before Cheryl embarked on her entrepreneurial journey, she found herself in the corporate world of public relations at a hospital. Initially brought in to plan special events, fate had other plans when the graphic designer departed. Without skipping a beat, Cheryl took on that role, an experience that ignited her passion for digital design. Suddenly, she was crafting ads and marketing materials, laying the groundwork for her future endeavors. The transition wasn’t merely professional; it was transformative.
When her second son was born, a pivotal moment arrived. The corporate grind felt too constraining. With daycare costs skyrocketing, Cheryl decided to forge her path, diving into freelance design work while supporting her husband’s insurance agency. This leap of faith led to the birth of WoW! Graphic Designs. (As a fun twist, the name is a clever play—WoW is MOM upside down!)
Back in those early days, the internet was a different beast. Social media was still in its infancy, and websites were rare. Yet, as clients began to request them, Cheryl didn’t hesitate. She taught herself HTML, embracing the complexities of web design. Can you believe it? She recalls the excitement of mastering server-side includes, a game-changer back in the day. Fast-forward thirty years, and Cheryl still thrives on the website design process, especially when collaborating with fellow women entrepreneurs to bring their visions to life.
The joy of problem-solving
What truly excites Cheryl? It’s the development and problem-solving aspects of website creation. There’s an undeniable thrill in discovering innovative ways to meet clients’ needs. Though she doesn’t consider herself a programmer, she’s cultivated enough knowledge to navigate challenges and find creative, low-code solutions. “I know just enough about programming to be dangerous!” she laughs, reflecting her playful approach to tech.
On the design front, the real magic happens when team creativity converges. Hiring her first team member, Laura, eight years ago was a game-changer. Cheryl recognized her own strengths and weaknesses, eventually appointing Laura as Creative Director. It’s this strategic collaboration that elevates their work. “The quality of our projects has skyrocketed thanks to our teamwork,” Cheryl emphasizes, illustrating how the synergy between her technical skills and Laura’s creativity creates stunning, functional websites for their clients.
Motivation and resilience in entrepreneurship
Becoming a mom was a life-altering shift for Cheryl. The instant realization that a 9-to-5 job wouldn’t suit her led her to freelancing—a decision that granted her the flexibility to be present for her sons. Fast forward to today, and she cherishes this balance, with the added joy of spending time with her grandsons. Yet, the entrepreneurial journey isn’t without its hurdles. Cheryl is particularly grateful for the strong partnership she shares with Laura. “Knowing I don’t have to shoulder everything alone is comforting,” she shares, underlining the power of teamwork in navigating challenges.
A defining piece of advice that transformed Cheryl’s business approach came from her coach: “Focus on the process.” This mantra has reshaped their operations, thanks to Laura’s expertise in establishing efficient workflows, task templates, and standard operating procedures (SOPs). The results? A streamlined process that allows the team to handle projects smoothly while freeing up time for personal pursuits. Cheryl reflects on this change, acknowledging how beneficial it would have been even during her solo days.
Achievements that matter
When asked about her proudest accomplishments, Cheryl finds it hard to choose just one. On one hand, she cherishes the long-lasting relationships she’s built with clients over nearly three decades. Some have remained loyal since the very beginning, a testament to the trust and respect nurtured along the way. On the other hand, the evolution of her business—from late nights in her basement to leading a dedicated team in a professional office—is equally rewarding. This growth allows her to embrace a leadership role while making time for her personal passions, such as horseback riding and yoga.
So, what’s the secret sauce for agency owners? Cheryl emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and adaptation. For her, books like *Story Brand* by Donald Miller have been invaluable, while her favorite podcast, the *Yin Yoga Podcast*, offers insight and inspiration amidst her busy schedule. And let’s not forget her go-to tools, like WP Remote for managing WordPress sites and Asana for project management.
It’s clear that Cheryl’s journey is a blend of passion, perseverance, and collaboration. Her story resonates with anyone navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, reminding us that success often blooms from a foundation of strong relationships and a commitment to continual growth. Who knows? Perhaps her journey will inspire the next wave of women entrepreneurs to take that leap into the unknown.