Today Makes 8!
Today marks eight years since I launched Capizzi Designs full time. I still remember walking into my colleague’s office to give her the news—I was equal parts excited and terrified to dive into this new venture and I’m happy to say I haven’t looked back once.
The last eight years have been full of lots of surprises, challenges, and joys. I never would have guessed I’d end up working with not one but TWO of my high school teachers. And after a few years getting into my groove, I discovered my specialty, event/conference branding, that lets my superpowers shine: organization and crushing deadlines! I get to work with a diverse group of clients and found networks of like-minded, self-employed creatives, many of whom have become friends along the way. I even found my business twin, Tara, who is celebrating her eight years in business today as well. (Rhyming names and sharing a business anniversary are only two of many reasons we are twins!)
I’ve learned important lessons and received excellent advice along the way — and I’d like to share my top eight, in no particular order, with you.
Time trackers are one of the best tools to understand how you spend your time.
When you jump, the net will be there.
Enjoy the slow times knowing you’ll get busy again.
Clients (or colleagues) have similar wants and needs as me, and they will understand and even encourage the need to take time off.
If it’s 80% there, release it into the world. Similarly, perfection is your worst enemy.
I’m not the right designer for every project, nor should I be.
Mistakes will happen. Fix it, learn from it, and move on.
Self-employment is a lifestyle that requires a major mindset shift to succeed and thrive.
Finally, I want to say a big THANK YOU to all of you—my clients, supporters, and networks (especially the Creatives Roundtable and Freelance DC). Your support, advice, trust, and referrals over the years have kept me going. It’s an honor to walk this path with you.