Today we’d like to introduce you to Dawn Hull
Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
My entrepreneurial journey has been fueled by a passion for creativity and problem-solving. It all started with OliverAlert, a service born from the experience of losing my beloved dog, Oliver. Recognizing the need for a more effective way to reunite lost pets with their owners, I developed a solution. This ignited my entrepreneurial spirit and led me to explore other ventures, such as aKeKee, the first vertical search engine dedicated to pets.
In 2023, I embarked on a new creative endeavor, CandlestickCoasters, where I repurpose candlesticks into unique and functional pieces like standing coasters, personal side tables, catch-alls, and plant stands.
I find inspiration everywhere – in everyday life, the beauty of nature, and even in those minor frustrations that spark an idea for a better way of doing things. I believe in the power of design and innovation to enhance our lives, and I strive to create products that are both beautiful and practical. Steve Jobs’ famous quote, “Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works,” perfectly encapsulates my design philosophy. For me, every detail, every angle matters.
I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The entrepreneurial journey is inherently filled with challenges, and mine has been no exception. However, I’ve learned to embrace these obstacles as opportunities for growth. Adaptability and resilience have become my closest allies, and I’ve developed an unwavering belief in my ability to overcome any hurdle. I’ve discovered that maintaining a positive perspective and a “can-do, will-do” attitude can truly make all the difference.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I’m passionate about transforming everyday objects into something unique and functional. My current focus is CandlestickCoasters, where I repurpose candlesticks into eye-catching and practical pieces like standing coasters, personal side tables, catch-alls, and even plant stands.
It seems simple, but it’s not every day you see candlesticks reimagined in this way! I’m proud of when I can take something and give it new life. It’s about seeing potential where others might not and pushing the boundaries of creativity and expectations.
I’m fascinated by how seemingly unrelated experiences can connect and inspire future creations. It’s like a chain reaction of inspiration!
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
I believe calculated risk-taking is essential for growth and progress, both personally and professionally. While some might perceive my recent career move – leaving the stability of a Fortune 500 company after nearly a decade to join a startup – as a major risk, I see it as a calculated leap of faith.
It wasn’t a decision I made lightly. Leaving behind established relationships with clients, colleagues, and other supplier-friends was difficult. However, I felt a strong pull towards this new opportunity, and I ultimately decided to bet on myself and my potential for growth in a new environment.
Now, my first month in, I know wholeheartedly that I made the right choice. This experience has reinforced my belief that calculated risks, when aligned with your passions and goals, can lead to incredible rewards. It’s about weighing the potential outcomes, trusting your instincts, and having the courage to step outside your comfort zone.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://candlestickcoasters.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candlestickcoasters
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawnkhull
Image Credits
CandlestickCoasters
