10 Things I’d Do Differently If I Started My Small Business in 2024

[@moodymargo]

I watched this last night twice. I just got a job as a full-time engineer and I’m spending my free time making art. You have shown myself and so many people that it IS possible to be a full-time artist-that is my dream. Thank you for beating back the starving artist stereotype.

[@jennyjumpjump]

You can do it! I was a full-time software developer and Linux admin and now I'm a full time artist.

[@WildVoltorb]

Holy mama, you have a real job, don't move to this field 😂 it's brutal. I'm an artist Sometimes I feel life would be easier if I had a normal job. Specially at times like this with AI. Thank you software devs

[@ashleyanzo9307]

me too!!!! no fucking way, we should connect what’s your instagram? i’m in the same boat and i really wanna pursue my own art business

[@katgreer6113]

​@WildVoltorb "Real job?" I never thought I'd hear an artist say that omg😭

[@Mary-jl9qf]

​@@WildVoltorb oh yeah, you definitely say that because you don't have, and perhaps never had a "real job". Being an artist is not easy but that corporate lader is going to give you a burnout and you are not even doing something you like

[@anat01]

8:37 I fully agree here- I work in advertisement and the amount of reels we make every week is……. is a lot. do know though you can make very simple things for reels! it doesn’t need to be extremely animated, it can be just a bunch of pictures

[@kittietreatsshop]

I agree that showing your face on social media really helps, because as soon as I started showing my face in my videos, my business really started to take off! I think it’s honestly because people love to support other people, and it also helps build more trust. So if you can bring up the courage to show your face on camera, it can really take your business to new heights! Also, I agree that getting a business credit card and a business checking account is super helpful to keep track of your business expenses and it also makes tax time a LOT easier! I earned so much cash back with my Discover credit card for my business expenses that I’ve been able to get lots of things for free! So it’s definitely worth it!

[@soarpurpose]

You said you can't wait until your domain expires to change it. You can have more than one domain name then redirect to your preferred one. This is in case customers type in a different version or in case someone else registers a similar name. A debit card works the same as a credit card. It is a very good idea to have a separate account for business transactions to make the tax obligations etc easier. Would also recommend trademarking your business name. Otherwise there is nothing to stop a competitor from taking the name (and similar domain names). Trademarking a name is different to registering a business name (eg as a company).

[@joannaphilipa4177]

This is all so important. I hope she reads this comment!

[@Brittanysplittany]

I think the credit card suggestion was also to be able to get rewards from the money being spent, but the debit card is a great alternative if you don’t have great credit/don’t want a credit card!

[@soarpurpose]

@@Brittanysplittany depends if one is disciplined enough to use it and has enough income to be issued one in the first place.

[@sharlenegelito7672]

The quality of your videos has drastically improved through time and a video like this breaks down all the “uncomfy” topics of running a small business yet opens new doors for those wanting to start a new business. I only hope you continue to succeed and keep creating more educational and entertaining videos!

[@dearkive]

As someone who's planning to start my small biz this year, I'm looking forward to gaining insights from this video

[@tammydinh]

aahhh tysm for watching

[@Lexisartworld]

Same!! Very insightful :)

[@shweta2628]

​@tammydinh can you tell me the song you use at the end of the video

[@heyitzashley1]

I love this. I’m a small business owner. I free style crochet for 14 years but 6 years ago I start selling. My regret was not advertising and having socials for them. I now struggle with getting consistent customers 😂 I’m thankful enough that some of my friends help support me ❤

[@Khadija-sx1io]

Heyy I’m thinking of doing a crochet small business too! Can you please share with me your experience!

[@heyitzashley1]

@@Khadija-sx1io of course! I’m actually thinking of posting videos of my crochet business experience on my channel ❤️ but I recommend to stay consistent with posting even if you don’t get the views. Even if you have to make 3 videos of the same thing. I’ve only done it 2 times also where I’ve given out freebies to help me with promoting. Currently I’m transitioning to crocheting clothing/accessories so I’m learning how to sell clothing now 🫶🏻

[@daphnetehe]

I'm planning to start a small crochet business for a while now but the fear of being out there for others to see as some one who is very shy and quiet around people in general all my life has me going a bit insane. Your videos always make me push a little when I'm unable to do it for myself

[@Jadecool312]

Just a note to everyone who is trying to start a small business, the tips here I would say are useful contingent on the fact that you have help and come from a background that facilitates this sort of independent growth. If you are completely on your own, like a lot of people are, and don't have any kind of outer circle that could help you, I feel like a lot of this information will not be useful to you. Of course, that's not to say that you CAN'T grow your own business completely by yourself, you absolutely can. But just keep in mind that a lot of the advice given here is really only useful if you 1) Have a strong community circle as mentioned in the video and 2) come from a background that could support you or help facilitate your growth while you start up. And a lot of people don't have either of those things. No hate to Uncomfy, this video is great for people that have the resources and support to start their business, I can see the value for those that come from a similar background and support group. But a lot of people are completely on their own and don't have anyone but themselves. They also have nothing to invest in the first place. And it can also be really disheartening to hear that support and coming from a home of support is what helps make a small business successful in essence just imo.

[@BrielleJuliet]

This was so insightful for content creation too!!! I love the idea of leaning into story marketing. Thanks Tammy ❤

[@nicknmhere]

I started following your journey some weeks ago, and it has been amazing to watch old videos and see how far you've come. It's a breath of relief from the "starving artist" mindset. Thank you so much for being such a beacon of light, it's been so helpful to see these videos and feel like we can actually live doing what we love as an artist. Thank you! Much love from Brazil!

[@PaulaGrenemeier]

Thank you so much for not gatekeeping! Love your videos!

[@BenedictNgozi]

I work as a pastry chef and only just decided to start my KZbin channel last year after so much thoughts. Been procrastinating starting my own pastry business from my house but will certainly do that. Your videos are always so insightful.

[@valkydesigns]

I also want to try to start my small business this year and I'm truly terrified and overwhelmed about every aspects. Your videos really help me believe that I can do it somehow. Thank you

[@jojobunco]

I recently discovered your KZbin channel and I am so grateful for your content. I can feel how genuine you are and I think I've teared up in almost every video of yours I have watched so far 😆❤️! Thank you for sharing your journey as a creator and parts of your life with us 🎉

[@LopsideMakes]

Currently starting a business that won’t be online for a long time, but eventually I’d love it to be. I’ll make sure to use these tips, thank you so much! The biggest one for me is definitely investing back into your business. I always do everything by myself, and I should start to use what I have to make things more efficient and easy! Thank you so much Uncomfy, you’re such an inspiration!

[@nevmarieart]

I just graduated college with a degree in art and have been so uncomfortable trying to transition into art- this gives me a lot of confidence to just kickstart on the side of my full time job! It seems like such an unattainable dream until you explained it. I'm coming back to this video, thank you for sharing.

[@Manj_J]

Damn, I needed this! I'm finally going to start my online business now after procrastinating since 2020, thank you for this wealth of wisdom!

[@ChantelleArts]

I already know this one is gonna be super helpful 🥰

[@jewelrescue]

I really admire how you’ve grown your business, congratulations! I have your videos on when I’m pricing up stock for my retailers and when I’m packing orders and you always make my anxious self a little calmer, thank you! Fab tips ❤

[@juliaroberts6977]

This video was great, girl! So much reassurance that I really needed. ❤️ #10 helped me make a decision I was on the fence about for SO long (because of other factors, not shyness) this was definitely my sign🔮✨ My heart goes out to you. Keep making these great videos! 😽💕👑✨

[@truescot23]

Thank you for sharing Tammy! I especially resonate with not curating social media ♥

[@dongdongwu4035]

I love your videos! You have helped me a lot by doing clay and I really want to buy some of your items Tammy!

[@sugarshrimp]

All of these tips are so accurate!! I’m currently in the “document every single stage” at the beginning of my new art journey and I’m so pleased for my future self that I’m doing it!

[@magusofthebargain]

and boycott AI, you can think for yourself and definitely never use AI generated images in your published works. Doing so makes you lose copyright over your art and infringes on the copyrights of other artists.

[@kamilytee]

yes!!

[@aikonvl]

I only used AI to make a color scheme for different skin tones, I just hate to use it for ideas or images. I already have a very creative mind

[@reahallu]

she uses it for emails lmao

[@reahallu]

did you not listen to the video

[@jrosealchemicart8025]

Such a good video! I’m always nervous to share too much in my posts and videos, but it’s definitely my family and the values they shared that have inspired me so much to create my little ghosts and their stories. After watching this, I feel like it might be okay to share that part of my journey with my art too, so thank you 😊

[@JOSHUAAJUNA-v2f]

Thanks a lot. I needed this. I always wanted to start big, with the best gadgets I could get etc. This has showed me how actually a lot better and more joyful it is to start from where I am. God bless you more. Humbled.🙏

[@StickyRice43]

I appreciate your videos soo much! You really change the perspective of this dream from being overwhelming to doable in my brain after I watch ♡

[@moonbeanchannel]

Very insightful I’m looking to start a business myself it’s so overwhelming but I know if I push myself it’ll be worth it

[@rubidotrinh549]

So full of care, helpful information and immensely encouraging messages! Thank you so much for doing this for yourself and for each of us who will benefit from your work and your journey. Much love and gratitude!

[@cozysprite]

I've been trying to work my confidence up for a while towards showing my face on camera and your videos are really inspiring to me. I hope to get there some day!!

[@tiaraanderson]

Ugh I love this channel 💕, I’m so inspired thanks for all the helpful tips Tammy ✨

[@pipipupu256]

watching this made me realise how lucky i am to have been raised by business owners such as my mom and dad. they both have their own businesses and ive gone to many business trips with them and ive learned all of these things from them before, i want to start an art business one day so this was lovely advice :D

[@gastronomee_]

built two businesses by age 20 - both failed. thank you for sharing this - all your advice and thoughts are really going to help some people out there (including myself - because i see youtube as a business as well!)

[@dixiemerchant1052]

Your advice is great for both young and old...it is so neat for me to see what is available to do nowadays!

[@EcomCarl]

Fantastic reflections on what to do differently in business! 🌟 Your emphasis on building a team early and focusing on direct sales through your own website is a powerful strategy to retain control and maximize profits while minimizing burnout.

[@VioletSame]

This is amazing advice thank you!! I did have my own website for a while but I just didn't get much engagement. Can you do a video on how to market your items and what worked for you?

[@vonyoki2679]

ahhh this couldn’t have been uploaded at the most perfect time, it was so useful and insightful.

[@maev_8927]

YAYY I literally rewatch all ur videos because I just love them so much. Thank u for posting !!

[@TheCraftsmansParadise]

Hey, Tammy, thanks for the video and the tips! I love your videos, you just feel soooo genuine and honest ❤ Best luck with growing your business!

[@SweetLittleTouch]

Always love rewatching your videos, and I learn something new each time! 🥰❤️

[@beingemma]

Love this! Only time to focus on the "professional" photos would be for your site. I am still on my social media journey I find it the hardest but recently have been finding it easier as I stop trying to be "perfect" and just be me. 🙂 I am working on the documenting the journey which is why I started KZbin.

[@lacieperrot]

Thank you for sharing authentically and helping the crafting community to grow and expand in beautiful ways~🥰

[@whatsaroxy]

This is exactly what I’m making a video series about right now (there’s 2 up already) and it’s helped me reflect a lot on what I’d do differently! You learn SO much in a few years.

[@stephanniex3]

So much helpful and valuable info in this video!! Thank you so much for making it Tammy!!😊☺️

[@jeffm3283]

I'm clueless about business stuff and it's about time I start learning since I want to be a professional artist. the algorithm knows

[@kyziah]

Thank you so much for graciously sharing your priceless experiences and insights with everyone. Your wisdom has truly helped release my leash of hesitation and believe in the potential of my small business. It's also delightful to see Tiffany/Apple Cheeks in the photo too :)

[@KuticorBuilds]

Im thinking of starting my small biz this year and all of ur videos are super helpful!

[@DamAndDam]

Cries in capricorn, that got me good jajaj

[@Hollyyyyyygr]

First❤❤ I haven't finished the vid yet but you're so inspiring ahhhhh

[@lps-emily]

Love these videos! Struggling with if I want to go with Etsy or make my own shop with Shopify :,) I have the audience already but man, is Shopify daunting! Thank you, Tammy!

[@Kyliedoscope]

Thank you, as someone who’s looking to grow my business online this year ! I really love your style and expression. Your advice is hitting home so hard and I am very grateful you overcame all that you did in your mind to show up for all of us digitally! You are an epic being! Keep shining Tammy 🤍🕊️🙌🏼😇🎉🖼️☀️

[@pb_and_nutella]

It's such a small thing, but the fact that you said outright that you spent over $30k is the kind of transparency that makes these so valuable

[@qwertytown]

i don't normally comment anything on videos but this video is so helpful for me! ive been running a sticker business since 2022 but ive made so little progress because of the many mistakes ive made! but i never knew how to fix them until after watching this video! thank you for sharing your insight on running a small business!!

[@chrism9596]

Very good tips! I think valuing energy and your time is so frequently neglected. You have done so well and are a wonderful mentor for others be proud if yourself!

[@xiro4210]

How did you build the following of people wanting to buy your items? What social platform did you find the most success on? And what tips can you give people who are just starting on building their following?

[@Nostalkingwelcome]

I enjoy the social media part, but I haven’t even made a website, but you’ve given a lot insights❤ thank you ❤

[@rayeasummers9455]

Thank you so much. Your videos are very informative, just found you today!😀

[@astriamikaelson]

Watching this while creating for my business! Thanks so much for your wonderful videos! Very inspiring! 😊💗

[@mayyuasa2090]

thank you so much for sharing!! this gave me so much motivation to start my art biz again

[@susanharkema2888]

SUCH wisdom! So great you’re sharing from your hard-won success. Your advice is GOLD.

[@alisonhoyte7608]

I remember I think your first video you made a couple of years ago I love your style well done and best wishes for your future

[@vicefaun2316]

this is exactly what i needed to hear as an artist who just moved out from her parents home!

[@Malkey08]

I want to start a small business for art prints, stickers and pins. I really love drawing, and I am thinking of commissions, and even procreate brushes cause I know how to make those. I just want to start already, and uncomfy’s videos are really pushing me to just do it.

[@perforatedfold]

the amount of time n frustration getting a label printer sooner wldve saved me😆 still one of best buys i made for my shop!💖

[@loukalicious]

Thank you for these tips! Even for someone who has had her small business for a number of years they are very valuable ❤ love your work and your chanmel❤❤

[@RedCardinalCrafts]

I created my business in 2011. Red Cardinal Crafts. I have moments where I wonder if I should have just used my own name. RCC has a lot of meaning for me but I know a lot of creatives and artists use their own name. Do you ever feel that way?

[@karenombler5629]

Thanks for the advice, it's hard to put your face to a video ....but I agree its necessary as is telling your story...

[@PolynHoare]

Thank you for sharing information for marketing all the arts . God bless 😊

[@simplynel5318]

Random thought but: the colour of your lipstick fits you so well!!

[@ooXChrissieXoo]

For me a good rule to go by is that if it is a piece of equipment/machine that you will be using every time you do something, and will take you over 2 hours to do without it, it's best to get it as soon as you can. If you see the tool and you immediately know what you can use it for, and something you will use often, buy it. If something is cute, pretty, looks like it got potential, looks useful, but you don't see yourself actually using it in your imagination, 9/10 times that thing sits somewhere to collect dust lol

[@olepachill]

I’m so glad I found your channel! You help me so much

[@YokoshimaOfficial]

Such great notes and advices, straight to the point and clear... very nervous to add my clay arts to my business but I gotta do what I gotta do and learn as I go Q A Q

[@matchanclay]

Thank you so much for this video, Tammy! I’m about to open my small clay business and this is very helpful before I do it, you’re such an inspiration for me!

[@fieryaries911]

Thank you for making this video! :) Especially appreciate the logistical tips!

[@eternalspunshine]

I find your videos so incredibly helpful. Thank you so much for all the knowledge you share ❤

[@chasingwatersart]

this is such a useful video as someone who has a small business of their own! amazing tips!🌻

[@monikakhain9417]

These tips are amazing! Thanks so much for sharing!

[@Spiffycow]

Thanks for actually making useful, thoughtful, helpful videos. :)

[@mahnameisqq]

a beautiful and helpful video! your username might be uncomfy but you are so comfortable to watch. you voice is a big part of that :)

[@onlypaintmode8496]

I’m watching right now, and… omg, the SHAME flushing my face when you talked about the label printer had me crumbling into pieces. I know it’s stupid, but it’s always like: no, I could save money by printing, cutting and taping everything myself. This is so very naive and plain weird, still I have no label printer. Time to get one, I guess. Thank you. 💜

[@aled7973]

I want to start a charm/mini clay figures business. Idk how to get it started, but this video is pretty helpful. Thank you! 😊

[@Shreya_Springs]

Only started watching your videos recently and I really enjoy how balanced your views/suggestions are, love the aesthetic as well. Thanks for sharing!! Also, what's the song at the end?

[@lemonxpapaya6001]

I love your channel. Please what camera are you filming with? I know you said you used your iPhone pro max but what camera do you use to film your vlogs?

[@tammydinh]

Sony ZVE10 ❤

[@mariapaulaaponte8549]

Amoooooooo tu contenido, te mereces todo lo lindo

[@luckymom241]

Thanks for the advice and I appreciate your videos and you inspire me to start my own business thanks again.

[@HailleOlimb]

This domain name came at the perfect time! Thank you so much!!

[@ineedrice4257]

Thank you so much! for making so much clearer points, i'm half way making my small business. is it just me ? thinking or naming a product name is just making my brain empty 😢 HAHAHAH most of the time i m just naming them ghost, dog 😂😂😂

[@zeath_zolaries3508]

The thing is, i actually don't want to show my face. I never have. I'm not uncomfortable..o just don't want my face all over the internet, I'm not comfortable with that idea. How do i overcome that😭

[@Lani-e8p]

Stick to product photos or ask your friends to model your products (and pay them for it or at least give them freebies). If you want some story, show a top down of your hands making the product and show your studio/workspace

[@blobymcblobface]

You're lucky AI isn't saturating your niche with cheap, stolen, trashy art. I'm starting out and wanted to sell on Etsy. It's 9/10ths AI art now for the art that's similar to what I'm making.

[@bangusia.art.]

Omg such a helpful and wonderful video 😍😍😍 I've caught myself trying to click thumbs up button like three times even tho I already clicked it once 😂😂 loooove your content ❤❤

[@roymichaeldeanable]

I find the No 1 issue not only when starting a business but throughout life is that no one wants to listen to advice or gives it value

[@porinesalvaro]

Thank you so much for this video, it helped me a lot, thank you for your honesty and humility. And I loved the discount, I've already secured my domain that I've wanted for a long time. Kisses from Mozambique

[@tammydinh]

Ahhh that’s so amazing :)!! Best of luck!

[@subasinicole6067]

Thank you so much

[@heretolearnCA]

This is wonderfully insightful and helpful input - thank you!!

[@robertsedmik3926]

Thank you

[@pooopsoup]

This video is really helpful! I've had my small business open for over a little year now and am still trying to figure out how to use Instagram reels effectively! 😔 I've tried everything from short videos, to behind the scenes drawing videos, to unboxing a new product, etc. but the algorithm is very picky I guess🥲 I will keep trying!!!!

[@chipstealer.-.]

Ahh I know this is off topic but your very pretty and that lip color suits you so well🥹

[@donbomBL]

regarding the credit card, it is better to first check that it makes sense in your country, and not just extra interest when recalculating

[@bbbatsaikhan5160]

You're so sweet and thanks for you sharing. Love your content 🙏🙏