Brandon1218web

Jessica Phillips
O! How Cute Gifts & More
What has been the most rewarding part of owning your
own business?
It has allowed me to determine my own schedule.
Having two children with very hectic schedules is hard.
But I’m able to attend most events and pivotal moments
in their lives.
Who or what inspired you to be a business owner?
Simple. God. When we started O! How Cute out of the
back of my car, it was only as a hobby to offset my staying
at home with my daughter. But God had a different plan
and placed people and events in our lives that allowed us
to grow–and here we are, thirteen years later.
What has been your biggest hurdle as the business owner?
As a young female attending meetings, markets and
other events during my early years, respect was hard to
gain. I don’t find this happening as often now, but it was
a big hurdle in the beginning.
If you could take one educational course since owning your
own business, what would it be?
Business finance! I had no idea how much paperwork
would be involved. As the sole person responsible for all
of the financials, having a business finance course would
have been very useful.
What’s your best advice to women considering going into
their own business?
If you’re doing it because you think, “it’ll be fun,” or
because, “I’ll get to go to market,” don’t do it! Owning a
successful business requires 100% dedication. There are
no days off. There are no sick days. There is no one else
to blame or fix things when all others have tried. If you
understand all of this going in, your chances of success
are greater.
What part of your job do you wish you could avoid?
Clerical work. I detest employee scheduling and payroll.
What is your favorite mode of relaxation after a day’s work?
Sitting down with my children and directing my
attention solely on them is a nice retreat.
48 • Winter 2018