Breaking Free from Business Norms: Why You Can Do Whatever You Want

Ever hear the advice that to be successful in business, you should keep your products or services laser-focused? That your business should have one main thing it’s known for? I’m sure you’ve come across this idea a million times—whether from so-called business gurus, blogs, or well-meaning mentors. And honestly, I get it. Having a clear, streamlined focus seems like the smartest path, right?

But here's the thing—I disagree (a little).

Sure, it’s easy to follow the advice of narrowing down and sticking to one thing. But where’s the fun in that? For me, business isn’t just about making money; it’s about creating a space where people can be who they are, explore their passions, and do what they love. And that’s how I ended up here—building a business that doesn’t follow the rules, but instead builds on a dream that started without any real plan.

I didn’t wake up one day and say, “Okay, I’m going to build a coffee shop that sells books and music and flowers.” Nope, I started with a dream. A vision. A desire to create a space that could bring people together, where artists and creators could unite and share their crafts with the world. I had no clear path, no exact product, and no fancy business plan. I just had a commitment to figure it out, with the incredible support of family and friends who believed in me.

And now, here we are.

I’m building a space where there are no boundaries. A place where you can find a little bit of everything—whether that’s stunning charcoal prints, a space to book your own photo shoot, or even unique art pieces from local creators. You know that dream many of us have had, whether as little kids or grown-ups, of owning a shop that offers it all? A space where art, style, and creativity blend together seamlessly? Well, who says you can’t have that? In the future, I plan on adding apparel and even more products and services that celebrate creativity, because why should we limit ourselves when there’s so much beauty to share?

Why do we have to fit into these neat little boxes when, in reality, business can be so much more? My goal is to grow and expand—offering new products, services, and experiences along the way. I don’t want to be bound by the typical business constructs that everyone else is following. I want to break free and create something that’s truly unique and personal.

So, here’s my take on it: Build what you want. Create what excites you. If you have a dream to mix a little of this with a little of that, go for it. The world needs more businesses that reflect our unique passions, and less that simply fall in line with what others expect.

Take a risk, trust your instincts, and watch your dream unfold in ways you never expected. Because the best businesses? They come from following your heart—and not worrying about fitting the mold.

Let’s break those rules together, shall we?

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How to Start a Business (From Someone Who’s Done It)

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A Heartfelt Thank You for an Amazing Year at Thornebrooke Art Festival!