Today we’d like to introduce you to Laci Swann.
Laci, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
I own and operate Sharp Editorial, an award-winning editorial, consulting, and creative firm (www.sharpeditorial.com).
Within the first year of inception, Sharp Editorial grossed over six figures. Although I prepared for growth, I was honestly shocked (pleasantly surprised, for sure) by everything that transpired over the course of my first 12 months in business. With the rapid growth of my company, I felt a strong desire to share my knowledge and experience with other women, to facilitate their dreams and create a network of like-minded individuals. Women entrepreneurs are on the rise, yet we lack resources and support, unlike our male counterparts. And so, I created The Modern Momtrepreneur.
The Modern Momtrepreneur is a virtual community of women facilitating worldwide networking, product and service promotion, encouragement, growth, and genuine support. The group has over 900 members from all over the world, and our member count is growing as we speak! I look forward to how this group will expand, come 2020, and I truly enjoy seeing businesses blossom and women grow into who they always envisioned. We are bright, creative, passionate creators, in every sense of the word, and we deserve to nurture our business goals the way we naturally nurture every other facet of our lives and the lives of others.
On January 25, 2020, I am hosting my first luncheon, through The Modern Momtrepreneur, at The White Bull (in Decatur, Georgia). Needless to say, Atlanta holds a special place in my heart! A select number of women from all over the United States are gathering in this special space to enjoy a mini-workshop, networking opportunities, delicious lunch, shopping with women vendors, and much more. Atlanta is officially the home to The Modern Momtrepreneur’s first luncheon, and I feel extremely fortunate to host a gifted group of women in such a dynamic, incredible city.
As a wife and mother of two, my hands are full but so is my heart, and I find so much joy in not only encouraging the growth of my tribe but dreamers around the world.
Has it been a smooth road?
I’m constantly on the go, seven days a week. From the early hours of the morning until late at night, my mind and body are at work. From homeschooling our daughter, Sloan, to working for Sharp Editorial clients to nurturing my family and closest relationships, I feel immense pressure to be “on” – to be creative, to be available, to complete tasks efficiently and timely, to exceed client expectations, and so forth.
On the other hand, I feel guilty when I’m idle. Although my husband and loved ones encourage me to take more breaks or just “relax,” that has been my biggest struggle – balance (and feeling content with taking breaks).
Now, more than ever, I am committed to prioritizing mental health and making the right changes for my well-being.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Sharp Editorial story. Tell us more about the business.
Sharp Editorial offers editorial, consulting, and creative services. In 2018, we expanded from editorial services to consulting, and in 2019, we expanded to select design work, too.
We specialize in ghostwriting, content development, business consulting, social media management, business strategies, blogging, and anything that involves a pen and paper.
Our commitment to time and dedication to clients sets us apart. Our turnaround times are speed, and we produce efficient, creative, error-free work. As a customer, I appreciate a speedy response, and I try to implement the same expectations among my staff and respective clients.
What makes my accessibility special is the fact that I reside in Europe for most of the year. My husband is a professional basketball player in Europe, so as we travel for his job, I maintain my company while abroad. So, if a client needs an immediate response, file, or assistance, I accommodate (despite the six to nine hour time difference). Because of my willingness to help, and doing so with a genuine spirit of enthusiasm, clients feel connected to me and appreciate my willingness to go above and beyond.
Years ago, I remember my mom telling me that she wished more companies and entrepreneurs provided services that were genuine and didn’t cost an arm and a leg. I kept that sentiment in the back of my mind, and when I established my company, I vowed to do what my mom had once wished – give clients the utmost authenticity, compassion, empathy, and fair prices.
As an empathetic entrepreneur, I feel especially confident writing on behalf of clients. People deem sensitivity a bad thing in the workplace, but I see this as a total advantage. My sensitive nature helps me connect with others and build lasting, fruitful, trusting relationships.
The exchange of genuine feelings and prioritizing timeliness goes a long way.
Oh! And as my company grows, my brand has too, which has been a blessing. Winter 2020 marks the release of my first (but not the last) vegetarian cookbook, “Eat Nice.” I continually and wholeheartedly encourage clients to go after their dreams, and I hold myself to the same standard, as this cookbook has been a dream of mine for quite some time. I’m excited to see how “Eat Nice” will be received, come its release date.
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
Thankfully, creative services will always involve human interaction (or so I hope). Although technology plays a major role in the shift of several industries, Self-expression and creative expression are deeply personal, so my hope is that my company can continue to deliver client-focused services without the interception of technology. As more people become entrepreneurs and more individuals pursue their creative dreams, I see a greater need for consulting and editorial services. It’s only up from here!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.sharpeditorial.com
- Email: support@sharpeditorial.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/sharpeditorial
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/laciswann; www.instagram.com/sharpeditorial
www.instagram.com/themodernmomtrepreneur
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