Featured Entrepreneur
Trina Bentley
Emblem Creative
What does your business do?
Branding and graphic design. We help individuals and businesses reach their goals by making their visual appearance unique, consistent, and in line with the market they are trying to reach.
What do you like best about being an entrepreneur?
The freedom to be in charge of my own destiny, and the constant challenge and excitement of figuring out "what's next?".
What was your biggest fear in starting a business?
Not knowing what the future holds. Also, I started the business with two other women, my friends. We worked hard to figure out the right contracts and procedures to put in place to make sure we were able to make it work while maintaining our personal relationship. We've been able to do just that.
What has been your proudest moment in starting your business?
The realization that what I do plays such a huge role in helping others reach their own goals. Being part of their success stories is a great feeling. Also, Emblem was just in Print's Annual Design Magazine. We were one of a handful of studios from Austin to be featured. We feel honored and proud to be receiving a lot more recognition from the design community.
What is different about being a woman entrepreneur?
Women build more personal relationships and have a more genuine interest in the impact they can make through their work. I have been very fortunate in building personal relationships with many of my clients which, in turn, has led to exceptional word of mouth. Since I don't do a lot of marketing myself, I rely on the personal relationships. The Austin community is amazing as far as people being advocates for you--particularly fellow women business owners. My success is 100% attributed to the individuals who believe in the work I do.
What is different about you since becoming an entrepreneur?
Unfortunately, the stress level. It doesn't seem to go away. But the bright side is that entrepreneurship has opened my eyes to more opportunities, and has raised my personal "ceiling" on what I know I can achieve.
What message would you give other women entrepreneurs?
Do what you love, and you will find success. Operate with integrity. Do things that feel right in your gut. Exceed expectations always, for each and every client, and that will lead to opportunities.
Which female entrepreneur has inspired you most?
AWE's very own Jenn Lindberg. She was my very first freelance client when I came to Austin. In the 8 years since, I've watched her grow her business, start new businesses, and operate with integrity, sincerity, and devotion to her craft. She connects like minds and helps people along their own life paths. For me, it was also inspiring that an artsy, creative person could have a successful business.
What do you like best about Austin Women Entrepreneurs?
The people. I'm inspired to think differently and to achieve more when I'm surrounded by this group of women. They broaden my horizons and break down the limitations I had (unknowingly) set for myself. They are ambitious, savvy business women, seeking to do what they are passionate about.
