The Power of Pivot: Shanna Amoah’s Entrepreneurial Journey

In the world of entrepreneurship, the ability to pivot is often what separates success from failure. Shanna Amoah, the founder of Party By Design, exemplifies this principle through her inspiring journey. From starting a business out of necessity to adapting during challenging times, her story is a testament to resilience, creativity, and community engagement.

Starting from the Ground Up

Shanna’s entrepreneurial journey began five years ago when she found herself unemployed after leaving a corporate job that she held for 13 years. Despite the stability that job provided, she decided to part ways, which led her to explore new opportunities. During this transition, her daughter’s upcoming 8th birthday provided the perfect catalyst for her business idea.

Shanna wanted to create something special for her daughter’s birthday. After searching for a suitable venue for a paint party that would accommodate around 25 kids, she realized that the options available were either too expensive or did not meet her needs. This experience sparked an idea: if she couldn’t find a good place, why not create one herself?

Through online research, Shanna discovered the potential for a profitable and enjoyable business centered around children’s parties. She initially partnered with local businesses to host events, focusing on children’s themed parties, birthdays, and holiday celebrations. However, after a few months, she realized that she could take things into her own hands and sought out her own space.

She found a location in Stockbridge, signed a contract, and prepared for her grand opening. Unfortunately, just days after launching, the COVID-19 pandemic forced her to close her doors. This setback could have deterred many, but not Shanna. Instead, she embraced the challenge and began to think creatively about how to keep her business alive.

Navigating Challenges and Adaptations

When the pandemic hit, Shanna was faced with a difficult decision: how to pivot her business model to survive. Instead of giving up, she turned to her network for ideas. A conversation with a friend led her to the concept of paint kits, which she could sell and distribute without needing a physical gathering.

She researched successful paint kit businesses and connected with suppliers in California. This allowed her to create a new product line that kept her engaged with her customer base while adhering to safety guidelines. She began selling paint kits for both kids and adults, which turned out to be a hit in the community.

Despite the initial challenges, Shanna’s determination paid off. She remained mobile, taking her services directly to customers in their homes and at various community events. This adaptability proved crucial, as many businesses struggled to maintain their footing during the pandemic.

Balancing Entrepreneurship and Employment

As Shanna continued to navigate her entrepreneurial journey, she faced another challenge: the need for a stable income. To support her family, she took on a part-time job at Zaxby’s while still managing her business. This balancing act required immense dedication and time management.

Shanna found that working at Zaxby’s not only provided financial security but also allowed her to connect with new customers. She could promote her paint parties while serving food, effectively killing two birds with one stone. However, this dual role also brought emotional challenges as she grappled with feelings of disappointment about not being able to fully focus on her business.

She expressed her mixed emotions about this transition, feeling both let down and grateful. While she longed for the day her business could thrive independently, she acknowledged the importance of taking care of her family’s needs. Shanna’s story reflects the reality many entrepreneurs face: the constant juggling of dreams and responsibilities.

Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Reflecting on her journey, Shanna offers valuable advice for those looking to start their own businesses. She emphasizes the importance of thorough research and planning before jumping into entrepreneurship. Here are some key takeaways from her experience:

• Research is Crucial: Understanding the market and identifying what works and what doesn’t can save time and resources.
• Talk to Others: Connect with both successful and struggling entrepreneurs to gain insights from their experiences.
• Be Prepared to Pivot: Flexibility is key in business. Adapt to changing circumstances and be open to new ideas.
• Community Engagement: Build relationships within your community to foster support and collaboration.

Looking Ahead

Shanna remains optimistic about the future of Party By Design. She is working on new ventures, including potential collaborations with local schools and community organizations. Her focus on community engagement remains strong, and she continues to seek out partnerships that will help her business grow.

While she acknowledges the emotional toll of entrepreneurship, Shanna’s resilience shines through. She encourages others to pursue their dreams thoughtfully and with a clear plan in mind. Her journey is a reminder that success does not come without challenges, but with perseverance and adaptability, it is possible to thrive.

Conclusion

Shanna Amoah’s story is one of determination, creativity, and community spirit. Through her experiences with Party By Design, she exemplifies the power of pivoting when faced with obstacles. Her journey serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace their challenges and stay committed to their dreams.

For those interested in discovering local gems and supporting small businesses like Party By Design, check out the I’m Local Podcast and visit My Local Henry Directory for more information on local businesses and events.

FAQs

What inspired Shanna to start Party By Design?

Shanna was inspired to start her business after planning her daughter’s birthday party and realizing the lack of affordable options available.

How did Shanna adapt her business during COVID-19?

Shanna pivoted to offer paint kits that could be sold and delivered without the need for large gatherings, allowing her to continue operating her business.

What advice does Shanna give to aspiring entrepreneurs?

She emphasizes the importance of research, networking, and being prepared to adapt to changing circumstances.

Is Shanna still running Party By Design?

Yes, Shanna continues to operate Party By Design, focusing on mobile services and community engagement.

How can I support local businesses like Party By Design?

You can support local businesses by attending events, spreading the word, and utilizing local directories like My Local Henry.