This week is so much fun! I am in my hometown of Washington, DC, for several days to enjoy time with my family and to set the stage for some exciting things coming up here at the Indie Business Network. You'll be hearing a lot more details in the coming days, but for now, I want to share a sneak peak. You may have noticed me using the #MakerShine hash tag recently. I can't let the cat all the way out of the bag yet, but I will share the tip of her nose. IBN is working on a handmade documentary that will showcase the stories of Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs nationwide. Yesterday, we filmed at Oyin Handmade in Baltimore, Maryland. Here is a picture of me and Jamyla Bennu, Oyin's CEO and founder.
Yes, that is an incredible stash of goodies I picked up. We had a blast touring the Oyin studio, meeting the wonderful and friendly staff, and sniffing the fragrant, honey-filled air. (They are really into honey over there!) My kids played in the play area Jamyla and her husband, Pierre, designed for their two children.
This play area is one of the many things Jamyla and Pierre have done to put their lives — not their business — at the center of everything.
Among other things, we interviewed Jamyla and Pierre about how they started their business, how they keep it together as entrepreneurs and parents, how the Oyin Handmade brand recently found its way on to Target shelves, and what it means to them to be Makers and Handmade Entrepreneurs.
I was nearly in tears as Pierre described the “freedom” that entrepreneurship has purchased for him and his family. No matter who you are or where you are these days, there's nothing like being able to design your business around your life. Jamyla and Pierre have done that. They highly recommend it — and so do I.
Oyin Handmade has been a member of IBN since October 2009, and I feel honored to have a had such a long-term front row seat to all the magic they have created. It's truly inspirational — if they can do it, so can you!
Tweet This! Tweet: One of the best things about entrepreneurship is the freedom it purchases for you and your family. #MakerShine
I cannot wait to share their story and dozens of others in the upcoming #MakerShine documentary.
Stay tuned for more details!
Best and success,
Question
Has your business allowed you to define and create the life of your dreams? Have you purchased your personal freedom with entrepreneurship?
LEARN MORE ABOUT OYIN HANDMADE
