This post was written in partnership with UPS and The Motherhood. While I received compensation, this story is 100% mine!
When people find out that I am a blogger they always ask how I got started. Being a small business owner is not something I ever envisioned in my life, but now that I have my own little blog business, I can’t imagine life without it.
It all started when I was pregnant with my son.
Like any mom, I was so overwhelmed with all the baby gear that I needed. I was looking for suggestions on strollers and bouncy seats and what I really needed and what I didn’t. That search led me to mommy blogs. I relied on the advice of experienced moms (who better to help me out) when it came to things to put on my registry. In my search I got to thinking that this was something that I could do. I could write up my experiences with the baby gear I received for Jonah and create my own little blog. I never envisioned that A Mom’s Impression would turn into what it is today!
My small business has afforded my family and I many amazing experiences that we would have never had. When I started writing about toddler cups and toys back in 2009 I never dreamed I would meet famous celebrities, walk the red carpet, take amazing trips or discover a love for recipe creation and food photography.
I have met some amazing people and made new friends through blogging. The support I have received through my family and friends has made this small business possible. This experience has made me a better person, mom, wife and friend and I will be eternally grateful.
While owning my own business is a tremendous amount of work, it has all been worth it. As my little blog continues to grow, my hope is that someday it will support me enough to work full time from home and allow me to spend even more time with my family. I still have hopes and dreams for my business and with a little hard work I know I can do it!
The UPS Store understands the inspiring stories behind small businesses like my own. They want to start a conversation through the #ViaStories hashtag where people can go to connect, share and be inspired by those of us who have taken the leap to start our own small business. Behind every small business is a story of inspiration. I have been following the hashtag all month and have been very encouraged and inspired to continue to grow my blog and someday take the step to work for myself.
Win It
The UPS Store wants to spread the inspiration to as many people as possible and are giving one (1) reader a $50 Visa gift card by telling their story!
This giveaway is open to US residents and ends at 11:59pm EST on November 28, 2014.
Maria Malaveci says
I have always wanted to own a bakery, I love to bake!
Kat Hodson says
That would be awesome. I hope you get the chance to do that someday!
Mary Happymommy says
I don’t own a small business but I’m inspired by those who take their talents and turn them into a money-making enterprise.
Amanda Sakovitz says
I dont have a small business but they really are inspiring. If I could produce something to make money I def would. More power to them!
James Robert says
I do not own my own business but finishing up to get my Bachelors degree and would like own my onw business one day
Margie says
I don’t own a small business. But I think a knit/crochet site would be fun.
Thanks for the giveaway.
Kimberly Schotz says
My daughters grandmother own her own small business. I admire how hard she works to make it a success.
Kim Henrichs says
I’m inspired by my friend who just opened up her own little yoga studio!!
Lisa Brown says
i always wanted to run an Italian bakery
Julie Wood says
I do not have a small business, but I always shop at the Small Business get together in my town and find so many unique things that are made. There is a coffee shop by my house that is a small business and instead of going to Starbuck’s I go there to get coffee.
Nancy says
We have owned small businesses before. It is both fun and a huge challenge.
Gayle J says
I do not own a small business but I admire those that do. Its hard work and I try to go to as many local small businesses that I can to show my support in all they do.
shelly peterson says
I don’t own my own business but my hairdresser and her friend opened up theirs and it’s great to see them doing so well.
D Schmidt says
We do not own a small business but our dream is to own our own toy shop and we just hope one day we can make it happen.
Stephanie Phelps says
I have always wanted to own my own second hand children s store!
rochelle johnson says
im in college now earning my small busniess degree
Ellie Wright says
I don’t own my own business. My dream would be to own a bookstore, but now with the onslaught of ereaders, I’m sure that will never happen.
Elena says
I don’t own a small business, but have always wanted to own a pet food store. I admire local small businesses that support our community
Cindy Merrill says
My husband owns Quansor Corporation; we’ve been awarded a few tiny grants for research, but most the money went towards development & testing.
amy pugmire says
I wanted to own a couture high end boutique.
Elle says
There is a local bakery that makes the most amazing cakes. We always buy cakes from them for special occasions and we have come to know some of the workers there personally. We have some amazing memories that have come from days spent with their baked goods.
Janet W. says
I do not own my own business, but I definitely respect those that do! It’s very inspiring to see someone dreams come true with tons of hard work and dedication.
Stephanie says
i would love to open up a makeup store.. i wish
Leigh Anne Borders says
My husband has always wanted his own restaurant and my son;s best friend is going to start a dog training business!
HS says
I do not own a small business but I am inspired by my aunt’s craft store, she turns her creativity into a successful business.
Tara O. says
I don’t own a small business but I’m definitely inspired by anyone who does. It takes a lot of work and lots of courage to venture out on your own!
ellen beck says
My husband and I have had a carpentry business for 25+ years. It is small, and we work mostly for the elderly and disabled now and charge very little to try and give back. We arent getting rich doing this but have what we need .
courtney b says
My husband owns his own business and i’m inspired by him everyday because of all the hard work he does. It really is a hard job and it takes a good leader.
Thomas Murphy says
I am inspired by my dad who owns a plumbing business.
MUSINGSFROMME/JILL says
I own my own social media business. I’m continually inspired to do better by what other small business owners are doing. My advice to business owners is to never stop learning.
Roseann M says
My entire life has been a small business owner.
As I child on a farm, sold vegetables (with a little help from Mom)
As an adult sold handmade crafts at craft shows (partnered with my sister)
Now I sell books and craft items online. (Solo owner)
Rosie says
I would love to have an Etsy shop. I just found out from zoning that it is not allowed out of any residence in the entire town. I currently make fabric flower accessories and hats and give them away to disadvantaged teens and women. the town said if if was a non-profit it would probably be OK, so I’ve been looking into that.
Adrienne gordon says
I do and I have used that to be able to donate and promote charities that are important to me.
Sandy Klocinski says
I do not have my own business. I think it takes more than a single moment to compel someone to do something unusual and risky and I admire all of those who follow their dream
Kimmy Ripley says
I have been running an Etsy shop for over 7 years now. 🙂
Kim says
I do not but am inspired by so many friends w/sewing skills!!! so so neat
Marti Tabora says
I don’t own a small business but I am so in awe of people who have the courage to take the steps needed to start one.
chickie brewer says
I don’t own a small business, but I know people who do and wish I could do it.
Denise S says
I don’t have a small business, but I’d like to have a used bookstore.
carol clark says
no i dont but we live in the county and as a child my cousins by my grandmothers house opened a video store one time and it was so neat they always ventured in some some from videos to port o pottys so i admire them
Nicole Dz says
I don’t have my own business but I am inspired by our local small businesses in our downtown area, it is truly inspiring to see someone take what they love and make it a dream, and I love to support them.
Alyce Poalillo says
I did have my own small business for a little while. I would like to have another one that is book, food or pet related.
Sarah Hayes says
im inspired by anyone who owns their own business. I know its something I could never do. I just dont have the know how so I think its great that others are so motivated by something they believe in
tammigirl says
Our local butcher and his wife – they work hard, work together, employ a few people, and provide us all with quality meats way better than the grocery store at a fantastic price. They are the kindest people you’ll ever meet.
mita says
I don’t own a small business, would like to, one day.
Tanya White says
I don’t have have a small business but one day I would like to.
Heather Hayes Panjon says
I Don’t Own A Small Business But Would Love To One Day, Lot’s Of Inspiration From Friends And Family Who Do.
latanya says
I would like to have a pastry shop
Margaret Smith says
I don’t own a small business, but I really would love to open one. I’d like to do some type of interior design.
Tricia G says
Seeing bakeries opening up around town, totally makes me want to start my own!
Karen Raider says
I don’t own a small business. I would love to be my own boss but the long hours and risk of failure is scary. I admire anyone who has the courage to do so.
karen says
I do not own a business. It’s crossed my mind a few times. One was to open a florist shop. I’ve always loved growing, arranging, color coordination – someday.
Birdiebee says
I would love to open my own pizza parlor. It has always been a dream to do.
Soha MOlina says
I am inspired by my friend’s small business.
DEBIJOT says
I do not own a small business, but in my small town, there are many thriving small businesses. I do admire the hard work and fortitude that is put forth.
katherine says
I love the small mom-owned business that I shop from. I’d rather give them my money than bigger companies.
rich m says
I have a friend who owns a small landscaping business and it’s great seeing him grow.
Geoff K says
I’m inspired by my aunt who’s started her own jewelry business and is starting to make a real profit from it. It’s great to see someone start from scratch and build a solid business from the ground up!
Gail Crawford says
I would like to start a 24 hour daycaye.
steve weber says
I don’t own a small business but I do support local businesses.
Ashley Tucker says
I’m inspired by my sister’s small business.
Cynthia C says
I don’t have a small business but I see how hard the owners of them in my community work and admire them for it.
Amy Pratt says
I have a friend who runs her own acupuncturist business. It amazes me what one person can do.
Tina M says
there’s one donuts shop in town. they got best donuts, they have to work so hard to keep business going. my family love their donuts.
Natalie F says
I do not own a business but I always make an effort to support small and local businesses. I’m inspired by a friend that has her own sewing business.
nickie says
I do not own a business but I think it’s awesome anytime someone follows there dreams and creates a small business and I try to support local businesses
Cynthia R says
No I don’t own my own business really, I do babysit and enter giveaways for extra money. I admire my friend who has a photography business.
Ashley C says
I do not own my own small business, but my husband works for one. I love the heart and dedication it takes to own your own small business – it really is such an inspiration!
demureprincess7(at)gmail(dot)com
Suzanne K says
I do have my own small business, doing software support. Basically, the same thing and same product I was supporting when I was employed, but after my daughter was born, I went out on my own for the flexibility. Love it!
McKim says
I do not own my own business. I did help my son for several years when he had his own lawn care business. He did quite well.
Angela Saver says
My husband & I have owned our small family business of clock repair for the past 20 years, & it’s awesome being self-employed with my hubby!
[email protected]
Sue Ellison says
I own a coffee kiosk at our local mall. Long hours and hard work, but worth it.
nannypanpan says
I would love to own a gift shop one day
sarah hirsch says
I am inspired by everyone who owns a small business – it takes a lot of hard work!
Barbara Montag says
I’m always inspired by day care providers – all of that patience!
thank you
Krissy Higgins says
I work for a small business owner, and would love to be my own boss someday!
Devon F says
I am inspired by my sis in laws small business.
Becca says
I have a very small pet business. I walk dogs and stay overnight in people’s house or sometimes do doggie daycare. It’s fun!
Kristen says
I recently met an artist who makes a living doing her art…which I was so happy to hear, as I know it is not easy!
tammy shelton says
We recently bought a vintage Good Humor Ice Cream Truck. Painted it retro Pink and Called it The Frozen Flamingo. We’re doing great biz here in Florida!
Jennifer Tilson says
I don’t own a small business. My father in-law owns a cabinet design and manufacturing shop. I feel like he has to work harder than the bigger businesses that he competes with.
Debbi Wellenstein says
I patronize small businesses, as I like to buy local. I have never had a small business, but I would have a bookstore if I did.
Liz N says
I’m inspired by my friend, Michelle, and her spa small business. She works so hard to serve her clients with awesome personal service – I wish there were more business owners like her!
Rae L. says
I shop at local small businesses whenever i can.
Lisa E says
I would love to own a small business, I always wanted to own a portrait studio.
chickie brewer says
My daughter has a small business and also works full time.. I’m amazed how she can juggle everything in her life.
Michelle Weaver says
I don’t own a small business but I would love to own a small crafting one.
Jason B. says
I’d like to have a small business selling things on ebay.
Betsy says
i am inspired by someone who does – my friend
amanda whitley says
i am inspired by someone who did own small business. My Grandfather owned a woodworking business and i saw how much he loved what he did and he loved helping others when he could.
Kelly D says
I don’t own a small business but I am inspired by my dad who owned one. He created it himself while also working full time.
Tabitha says
my hubby is self employed.
it’s great b/c he take a day off if needed but we are still really struggling to get by.
Leela says
I would love to own my own restaurant.
laura ari says
I would love to own an art studio.
Julie says
My husband was a self employed licensed carpenter with his own business for 32 years.
beth shepherd says
I do not own my own business but I am part of a non profit group for young girls. Its very rewarding.
Laura J says
I am inspired as my sister and brother in law own their own! They put in such long hours, as even after their day is done…there is all the paperwork and things to still do. They are an inspiration!
Erika W. says
I do not own a small business but my friend owns one and sells things online and at comic conventions. It’s really awesome to see her follow her dream and have success.
Jessica H. says
I am inspired by my Mom who owns a small business designing and selling crochet patterns. She is amazing! Thank you for the wonderful giveaway!
Alona Y says
I’ve been dabbling in clothing resale, it’s encouraging to know people that have such an entrepreneur spirit but it’s tricky working out how to do it all.
Kyleigh Rose Watson says
Brilliant post, I love making jewellery and I sell it on the side occasionally but I’d love to invest more as I currently don’t have any disposable income. I’d love to open my own store and fund my dream of going to cosmatology school. x
Kyleigh Rose Watson says
Brilliant post, I love making jewellery and I sell it on the side occasionally but I’d love to invest more as I currently don’t have any disposable income. I’d love to open my own store and fund my dream of going to cosmatology school. x
Tara says
I am inspired by those who quit jobs to start a business. I don’t have the guts!
jessica mcfarlin says
IM INSPIRED TO JUST START MY OWN BLOG! EVERYONE SAYS IM SO SAVY
Rebecca Orr says
I used to work at Subway. While it was just temporary and not where I wanted to be career wise, it did inspire me to want to own my own business. I want to own my own sub shop. I loved being involved with the public in a customer service type setting. I enjoyed getting to know the people who came in daily. I liked knowing in advance what they wanted without them even having to say a word. I knew their likes and dislikes. I enjoyed making them food. I don’t want to make subway subs….but my own version that tastes even better and is fresher (because trust me, while subway is fresh, it could be fresher!) and fills them up and leaves them wanting to come back for more. It is going to take a lot of hard work and determination but I am bound and determined to make my dream of owning my own business come true.
Deb Jackson says
I am inspired by all the wonderful bloggers I follow. Love your blog.
Lisa Davis says
I’m inspired by the creative etsy shops and bloggers I follow.
ellen beck says
http://instagram.com/tannawings instagram verification
Seyma Shabbir says
I would love to own a bakery. But a european style bakery. My brother in law opened one overseas and I would love to do something similar.
stephanie hodges says
I want to start my own non-profit working with abused and neglected abused kids through Equine Therapy and training on the side for income purposes.
Anita Duvall says
For years I had a Beauty Salon with two employees and myself. I LOVED it! I am 48 and disabled now and would love to go back to such a fun work place!
Desirae Boone says
I am inspired by bloggers. I lack that business savviness.
Michelle C says
I’m always inspired by moms who have small businesses from home. Thanks for the chance to win!
Tabathia B says
I am inspired by small business that are going into the catering business because it’s so tough
Dawn Keenan says
I don’t own my own business, but have always dreamed of opening an antique shop.
Eugenia Hall says
I have an Etsy shop where I sell vintage items. I realized that I couldn’t keep all of the things I inherited but I wanted them to be enjoyed. This lead to me starting a vintage shop where I could sell both the things I owned but also the things I’ve managed to find. I love taking an overlooked item and finding it a home with someone who will love it.
Deb C says
I do not have a small business but would love to one day. I’d like a small antique and handmade goods shop. Not original, but what I love.
Erica B. says
It would be nice to have a small business.
kyl neusch says
by the creative etsy shops
Laura Fugate says
I’m inspired by everyone who owns their own business.
Daniel M says
I don’t know anyone that has their own business
Susan Christy says
I am inspired by several friends that own a small business. If you want something – go for it!
joni says
i do not own a business but my in-laws own a small business. I would love to own my own shop some day.
Robin says
I’m inspired by people that can spend the majority of their time starting their own business
Breanne says
I’m inspired by my uncle who owns his own business.
Adriane says
I have a small side business with very low overhead. I enjoy it.
Jenysa says
I am so inspired by those who have the guts to start their own business. The dedication it takes to that project seems so high!
laurie says
i have a friend who runs a small business and i have great confindence in her
Sarah L says
No small business for me. I admire my friend who has a successful cleaning business – she works very hard at it.
Thanks for the contest.
Richard Hicks says
I am inspired by my friend who has a small business making and selling knitted products
Richard Hicks says
instagram ID gmrich22
Sarah L says
subscribe email: slehan at myway dot com
Carolyn Daley says
No, I do not own my small business nor do I think I could manage one on my own. I do have a friend who loves to crochet beautiful scarves and blankets which is inspiring to do what you love.
Laurie Emerson says
I have a small business finding hard to locate books for people. I love doing it but someday would like to have my own book store. My mom was my inspiration.
Leanne Godfrey says
I have had a few small businesses. I admire those with their own businesses. They take many risks and make important decisions on a daily basis. I appreciate you! I’ve been there and I know how stressful it is!
Susan Smith says
I’m always inspired by moms who have small businesses from home. I have a friend who has her own business helping bloggers earn money on their blog.
Brittney House says
My sister started her own business and it is pretty successful. I see how hard it was and i’m so proud of her.
Bryan E. says
Thanks for the giveaway… I am inspired by a friend who opened a small restaurant a few years ago, converted a fire gutted building into a successful small business, and helped spur development of an entire neighborhood.