We had the good fortune of connecting with Amanda McClellan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Amanda, what role has risk played in your life or career?
I truly believe in the saying “nothing worth having comes easy.” And building a career from the ground up definitely falls into that category. To be successful, you must be willing to take risks. There is no other way around it.

I am more of a chess player when it comes to business. I take it slow and put a lot of thought into each move. But after 2 years of living the side hustle life, I knew I had to make a big change. A risky one! I knew I was bottlenecking the growth of my company. Between working full-time for a corporate company, being a new mom, and working for my own business, I was over-capacitated. So I decided to quit my full[-time (during COVID and while being a new mom) and pursue my business full-time. And let me tell you-it paid off. Big time! Best move I’ve made yet.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Having a niche product definitely sets you a part from the crowd. My artwork isn’t just decorative, it’s also informative. My designs combines iconic nature landmarks and typographical facts.

Looking back on my path, it feels so clearly like I was always headed in this direction-owning my own business, working for myself, and selling my artwork. Each and every single order that I ship out or sell at an in-person market brings me so much joy. Knowing that someone is willing to pay me their hard-earned money in exchange for something I created is the most satisfying thing I can imagine. I grew my business slowly and carefully, until I knew how to run my business and I knew it was successful. When it came time to move from side-hustle to full-time gig, I felt more ready than ever.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
When visiting San Luis Obispo, I suggest spending an entire day downtown. There are so many locally-owned restaurants and shops, and there is always an amazing art installation at The Mission. If you need some pampering, the best place to go is Sycamore Springs in Avila Beach. They’re mineral hot spring tubs are the ultimate way to relax! And if there happens to be a Makeshift Muse market going on be sure to stop by. These pop-up markets are at different wineries and breweries all over San Luis Obispo county and feature live music, food trucks and 20+ local makers to shop from!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I 100% would like to thank The Product Boss for their amazing business course, Multi-Stream Machine. It gave me the tools and confidence I needed to take my business to the next level. Their podcast is jam-packed with amazing resources and tips. Best decision I’ve made for my business was listening to these two powerful, intelligent women talk about business.

Website: www.amandaleedesign.com

Instagram: @amandalee.design

Facebook: @amandaleegraphicdesign

Image Credits
Steve Estes Creative, Rachel Baker Photography & Videography

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