resources
small business resources & tools
01.
Notion
My favorite tool for housing and organizing my business operations since 2020. I migrated from Google and don’t use Dropbox, that’s how much I love it. All of my processes and templates are created and stored here making it easy to delegate. I create custom dashboards and tools to see information at a glance. I use the paid version. They have a free version, if you’re curious or just starting your business.
02.
Canva
My favorite tool for creating any branded material or media for platforms. Canva has many capabilities that allow you to create images, sound clips, and video for almost any medium or platform. If you’re a novice, their selection of templates, color palettes, and curated font selections are very helpful. A built-in brand board makes it easy to create designs with consistency. I use the paid version; the ROI exceeds the cost. 🤫 They have a free version, if you’re curious or just starting your business.
03.
Loom
Loom is my preferred choice when recording a process. It’s also great for showing remote clients and team members how I did something, explaining a process, or answering a question. I also use it to create short clips to embed on my website.
join the challenge
Refresh Your Virtual Office
Clutter whether digital or physical creates stress, impedes productivity, and slows down our progress. Use the activities in this challenge to audit, filter, and refresh your virtual office.
business tools
Client success
DesignerAdvantage — Preferred procurement service and bookkeeping for the interior design industry.
HelloSign — Easy and secure way to send contracts and gather signatures. Free and Paid versions.
Tally — Custom forms and surveys that integrate with Notion. Makes it easy to gather information from clients and podcast guests.
Zoom — Steadfast companion since 2015 for video conferencing. I’ve hosted masterminds sessions, coaching, FAQ sessions, and more.
Marketing
Mailchimp — Fan since 2015. Briefly tried ConvertKit and Substack, and came back to Mailchimp for the design and metrics. I need both.
Elevae Visuals — Gorgeous editorial stock images +video. Subscription service.
HauteStock — Beautiful stock images + video for creative entrepreneurs. Subscription service. I love the marketing guides and tools created by Rachel and her team.
Saffron Avenue — The quality of Angela’s design work is excellent! She understands small business needs and guides her clients in a direction that most benefits them.
Website
17th Avenue — Feminine easy to use affordable WordPress themes. I manage my website by myself and have purchased multiple 17th Avenue themes over the years. The instructions are detailed and user-friendly. If you need service, it’s quick and friendly. A++
Microsoft Clarity — Free heatmaps and session recordings. I love this tool because it lets me know where website visitors click and how far down they scroll. This helps me know what I’m getting right or wrong when creating web pages, landing pages, and sales pages, etc.
This page contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if you purchase through our links (at no extra cost to you). I only recommend companies I have personally used, love, and trust. I run a very lean business and when I first started in 2015 I couldn’t afford much. I was very resourceful in using what I had to make the most of it.
founder guide
Lead in Your Communication
If you struggle with communication, you’re not alone. We have more tools than ever in history, but it doesn’t make it better.
I created this guide to share my 11 practices to help you better use your time, reduce unnecessary back-and-forth, protect your energy, and put you back in the driver’s seat.
These practices have been honed over time by leading teams, working remotely, and serving clients. I recommend sharing the tips with your team to make the biggest impact. I’m cheering for you!
my favorite brands
office
Cloth & Paper
Elegant office supplies, planners, and planner accessories. Proceed with caution or a budget. 😉
Day Designer
I love checking off tasks and making notes. My planner is my professional diary.
Moo
High-quality paper and printing. Love the thickness of the luxe postcard for displaying company values on desks.