One of my talents in life is decisiveness. I think part of being decisive is realizing that nothing will ever be perfect, and sometimes you just need to make decisions in order for things to get done. I wasn’t always this way, but owning a business has helped me hone this skill. This comes in handy with home decorating too; there are WAY too many choices out there, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed. When I found out I was having a little girl, I scoured the internet looking for cool things to put in her room. That’s when I stumbled upon an awesome metal wall sculpture from Gauge nyc at Anthropologie. And it really WAS perfect. It was exactly what I was looking for for Tova’s room. After a little more digging, I realized that they had an Etsy shop and created custom pieces. I knew I needed Tova’s name for her gallery wall. The pieces they create are totally original and unique; I love how her name floats above the wall and casts a shadow, depending on the time of day.
Through the process of working with them, I got to know the founder and creator, Paul Smotrys. I loved learning about what inspires him and how he runs his business; as a business owner, it’s always fascinating to read other people’s advice, their successes, and their challenges.
Small Business Success Stories: Paul Smotrys, Gauge nyc
Glad to chat with you! First, tell us where we can find you online.
Paul Smotrys, Gauge nyc
What inspired you to start your own business?
It was a natural extension of what I wanted to do, make beautiful things and let them go out in the world, and make a living doing it. It made perfect sense.
What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?
I’m inspired by art and industry. The beauty and integrity of metal is the underlying bond within the collection. The results are designs that are straight forward, clean and visually compelling.
What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?
I’m self taught, years of trial and error.
What has been your biggest success to date?
Staying small, believing in integrity of making things by hand, not having things made overseas, cheaply.
What has been your biggest challenge?
Being in New York is challenging financially, but I couldn’t be anywhere else now. I love the energy.
Describe your typical work day.
It’s different day to day. Usually, I assign my staff of daily task, I over see the studio production. I try to spend the afternoon designing and making one of a kind items.
Which small businesses are you inspired by?
I respect small businesses in New York, Brooklyn in particular that have distinct styles, companies that stay true to themselves and not compromising their dreams.
If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?
I have no regrets!
What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start her own creative business?
Be objective, don’t imitate. Work hard. That should be easy if you love what you do.
Tell us YOUR small business success story! For a chance to be featured in one of our small business posts, email info {at} cuteheads [dot] com & tell us about your business.
