Are you a solo entrepreneur who sometimes feels a bit… well, lonely? Do you miss having someone to bounce ideas off? Take a breath—you’re not alone. Nordic Bridal shares its best advice on how to thrive as a one-person business.
Foto: Adobestock
There’s a lot to love about running your own business. You get to shape your days (and often your nights), plan your work the way you want, and make decisions independently. You’re the architect of your own success. No long meetings, no endless compromises. But almost every solo entrepreneur shares one common challenge: the lack of a sounding board.
Some decisions are simply hard to make on your own, and in those moments it’s invaluable to have someone to talk things through with. Surrounding yourself with the right people is absolutely essential when you run a business on your own. A strong network can make all the difference. Running a boutique solo requires you to stay alert, curious, and engaged with the world around you—to keep up with trends, move with the times, and build a strong brand.
Here are some practical and inspiring ways to work smarter—and happier—as a solo business owner:
Build collaborations
Create a network and partnerships with other entrepreneurs whose businesses complement yours. Meet regularly to exchange ideas, share insights, and keep each other updated on the market. You can also create joint projects or events and offer something special together for your customers. More and more bridal boutiques, for example, choose to collaborate with wedding photographers or goldsmiths and even share premises. This way, you attract more customers to the area and can offer several services within just a few square meters.
Join a network
Become a member of a business network or industry organization with others in similar situations. It can lead to new business opportunities, but just as importantly, it’s a great way to build meaningful professional relationships.
Change your working environment
If you have days dedicated to administrative tasks like bookkeeping, try leaving your office and working from a café instead. Simply being around other people and a bit of movement can feel refreshing. A change of scenery is good for both energy and creativity.
Invite someone to lunch
A friend or potential collaborator can be an excellent sounding board when you feel stuck—even if they’re not an expert in your field. It’s also healthy to step outside the four walls of your shop from time to time and gain some perspective. Invite them to lunch, sit down, and talk things through. The best ideas rarely appear in stressful moments—they’re born in calm, unhurried conversations.
Stay active
A daily walk, preferably with company, is a surprisingly effective way to get your thoughts moving. We often think more clearly when we move. Problems can suddenly look different, and new solutions appear. This could be a brisk morning walk to your boutique or a workout session with a personal trainer after work. You’ll gain both mental clarity and a stronger, healthier body.
Take a course
There’s no shortage of great courses and training programs—from bookkeeping and marketing to color theory and styling—that can help you develop your business. A course is not only a social opportunity, but also a way to gain skills your competitors may not have. Keep an eye out for lectures in your area as well. A truly inspiring speaker, regardless of the topic, can spark new ideas and reignite your creative energy.
Visit trade fairs and industry events
One of the best ways to meet others in the industry is to attend purchasing fairs and trade shows in your own country and around Europe. Here, you’ll meet colleagues who may have more experience and are happy to share advice and insights. Bringing together both newcomers and veterans often creates fresh perspectives—and there’s always something to learn from one another. Don’t miss the chance to join new acquaintances for dinner—who knows, a simple meal might lead to an exciting future collaboration. Trade fairs are full of people just like you: eager to make new connections and exchange ideas.
