Take More Tell More | Margaret
I was so happy to sit down with sweet Margaret of Nightingale Handmade for this installment of Take More Tell More. I've known Margaret for a little over a year but have never really been able to understand the extent of her company. And now that I do, I'm trying to figure out a way to hire her! Nightingale Handmade started as a paper making endeavor in New York and has evolved into a printing and design boutique here in San Diego, including custom design and digitizing art work for other designers. We met in her Point Loma home, which is darling, and I was greeted by donuts (speaking my language!). If you are a small business owner, this post is for you! I was so encouraged by her words and hope they will speak to you too.
What are the greatest obstacles you have come across in pursuing your dreams?
M: Dealing with the shock of this not being as fulfilling as I thought it would be. I left my job to do this full time and it's not always the most fun thing, when I'm not enjoying it I'm expecting it to do more for me than it should. This is a job I'm so lucky to have, I'm so lucky to run my own business. But it won't fulfill all of my needs or expectations. It's a total emotional roller coaster but it's worth it.
What keeps you going on the grey days?
M: I love the relationships I build with other designers and artists. The most rewarding thing has been seeing women be able to open Etsy shops and expand their own business, because I can put their work out there. I am really passionate about small business, and if I can have a small role in helping someone start that, then it makes me really grateful.
What's the most rewarding aspect of following your passion?
M: It's definitely been seeing God's faithfulness in taking a leap of faith. If you feel like the Lord is leading you to do something that is going to be hard to do, you can bet he will provide. His provision is so incredible in those time when you are trusting him to do something because you have no idea what you are doing.
“we bring so much more to the world when we do it together. ”
What is the biggest thing life is teaching you at the moment?
M: To be grateful. We are so quick to complain and turn negative, and we constantly want more. But we have more than we could ever need, especially in southern California. I'm in a place of just trying to remain grateful everyday.
How do you think that we as women can live well rounded lives while still pursuing our passions?
M: It can be so dog eat dog in the creative world, especially among women. I have desires and dreams inside of me and when I use to see other women's dreams being fulfilled I would be so jealous and bitter. But that is fear crippling you. The best thing for me has been collaborating with other women. We bring so much more to the world when we do it together. When we collaborate it automatically eliminates those negative feelings, it's honestly key.
What advice would you give to those considering starting something new?
M: If you are in a place where you know this is what you have to do, then go for it. Don't worry about money, don't worry about what people think. Take the leap, I would never advise anyone to not take that leap because it might not bring in enough income. Fear of failure will debilitate you.
