Debbie, is the founder of Dragnet Design. She is a super-talented designer and we know that because she designed the Acorn Enterprise logo for us! What more proof do you need?! 🙂
She is passionate about great design and it was a real joy to watch her confidence and business grow throughout and after the Business Accelerator Programme. She was an Awesome Acorn on the 2nd Acorn Enterprise Programme in Fife, way back in 2014.
Read on to find out more about her business, advice for other new businesses and how she benefited from the Programme.
NameÂ
Debbie Kemp
Business NameÂ
Dragnet Design
Why did you apply for the Acorn Enterprise Business Accelerator Programme?Â
To gain confidence within myself and my services, learn about pricing and accounts, and have more awareness of business.
As a business owner, how would you describe yourself in three words?Â
Happy, creative and driven.
What or who motivated you to form your business?Â
My partner 🙂
How would you describe your business in three words?
Design with personality.
What was the best bit of advice your received on the Business Accelerator Programme?Â
To value myself and my skillset.
How has your business grown since being on the Programme?Â
The business has grown at a rate I have been able to deal with. I never thought I would ever get to the stage where I need to say ‘no’ if the project doesn’t fit, or if I do not see the value for either myself or the client.
I think my business has grown organically and has now almost reached full capacity (I love that!).
What are you most proud of about your business?
My reputation.
What are the three most important things you would tell an aspiring business “Acorn”?Â
- Don’t ever feel silly for asking questions
- Remember, everyone is running a business for their own reasons
- Put yourself out there and believe in yourself!
What is the most amusing incident that has happened in the history of your business?Â
I honestly cannot think of one and I just know there are loads!! Can I make it up?! Kidding….
If you started over, what one thing would you do differently?Â
In the early years, pricing!!!
I always charged too little and nearly always found a reason to feel sorry for every client in some way or another, e.g. “I have a tight budget” etc.
This meant I would not feel confident about charging what I should have been charging for my service.
How do you unwind?
Walking my dogs and playing candy crush 😉
What book would you recommend that every business owner read?
Feel the Fear and do it anyway (I think it was actually written for me!)
How would you describe Acorn Enterprise?Â
Safe, comfortable, friendly and invaluable!
If you enjoyed reading about Debbie, you may find these other Featured Acorns interesting!
Raffaello Palandri – PONF Multiback Open Camera
Jen Morrison – Impressive Memories