It took me 58 years to learn a truth I wish I’d embraced sooner: just because you’re a solo entrepreneur doesn’t mean you have to do it all alone. For years, I believed that running a small business meant wearing every hat, juggling marketing, sales, strategy, and fulfillment in isolation.
And let me tell you—it gets lonely in that bubble.
Even when you're passionate about your work, it’s easy to stall out, second-guess every move, or burn out from trying to do too much with too little support.
But then something shifts. Another creative entrepreneur shares a fresh idea, offers a new perspective, or simply says, “Want to team up?” Suddenly, you remember: you don’t have to build your business alone.
That’s the power of collaboration for entrepreneurs—sharing ideas, energy, and even audiences. It’s not only made my business stronger, it’s made it more joyful, sustainable, and connected. If you’re looking for a smart business growth strategy, start by reaching out. You never know where a partnership might lead.
Why Collaboration Works (At Least, for Me)
When I connect with another small business owner or creative whose energy just clicks with mine, something unlocks. We bounce ideas around, share each other’s audiences, get more creative—and honestly, have way more fun. I walk away from those partnerships feeling inspired and supported.
Here’s how I’m putting collaboration into action this season:
1. Gift Bundles with Heart
This fall, I’m partnering with other women-owned businesses to create thoughtful friendship gift sets. I’m combining pieces from my Take Care of Your Tribe ornament collection with their gorgeous, complementary products. It’s a meaningful way to co-create something special that speaks to both our audiences.
2. Cross-Promotional Packaging
Every time someone orders one of my gilded gold leaf ornaments, they might find a little something extra inside—a discount code, postcard, or special offer from another small business I love. It’s a simple yet powerful way to connect our communities.
3. Shared Pop-Ups and Trunk Shows
I’m planning a few holiday pop-ups where multiple W4W members will share a space, invite their customers, and create a vibrant, collaborative shopping experience. These events generate more energy (and sales!) than going solo.
4. Blog & Substack Collaborations
I’m also writing shared blog posts with other creatives—talking through our process, what inspires us, and what it really looks like to build a business from the heart. Two voices, one story, lots of insight.
5. Cross-Discounts
You offer my audience 10% off, I do the same for yours. These cross-promotional strategies are easy to implement and a great way to introduce new customers to our shops.When I connect with another small business owner or creative whose vibe just clicks with mine, something shifts. We bounce ideas around, share each other’s audiences, get more creative—and honestly, it’s just more fun. I leave those collaborations feeling inspired, energized, and supported.
Collaboration Isn’t Just About Sales—It’s About Support
Whether you’re a maker, artist, coach, or service-based entrepreneur, collaboration offers so much more than exposure or revenue. It offers relief. Encouragement. Momentum.
That’s exactly why I created Women for Women (W4W)—a community for creative business owners who want to grow through connection, not competition. Inside W4W, we share ideas, energy, resources, and remind each other that we’re stronger together.
So if you’re feeling stuck, tired, or simply curious about what’s next for your business, start by looking around. Who could you collaborate with? What could you create together?
You don’t have to do this alone.
Just say it with me: Let’s team up.
👉 Browse my ornaments and creative collections on my website.
👉Visit my new “home” - booth #4012 at Westside Market in midtown Atlanta.
👉 Curious about Women for Women? There’s always room at the table.