This is the 14th post in a weekly series of small business profiles called “10 Questions with” that will feature creative entrepreneurs and small business owners who have incredible stories and advice to share. It’s the perfect series to follow for budding entrepreneurs and creative people who want to know more about other people’s creative processes. Check back here every Wednesday to see who the next small business profile will be. The interview is below the images.

If you have a little girl with a big mop of hair like I do, you probably have some go-to bow shops that you frequent. I myself am loyal to a few, and I’ve become friends with many of these talented ladies over the years. So when I need bows and headbands, I know exactly where to go.

Back in the Fall of last year, I came across some bows so different and unique, I honestly couldn’t wait to get my hands on them. They were so quirky and whimsical, and I just knew my daughter needed one (or several). One of them was the adorable pumpkin clip she wore during Halloween. It was such a hit! People were constantly asking me where it was from, and I was thrilled to let them know it was from Stella Lane.

Favorite pumpkin in the patch ❤️

A photo posted by e s t h e r || cuteheads™ (@cuteheadskids) on Oct 11, 2015 at 6:33pm PDT

The woman behind the brand Stella Lane is both passionate and talented. In her interview below, she talks about how she’s always been an artist, and you can tell from her work that it’s true. She makes some truly unique hair accessories that both you and your little one will love, so make sure to stop by her shop after you’ve learned more about her. Plus for readers of The Cuteness only, take 15% off your Stella Lane orders with code CUTEKIDS15 until 2/29/16!

Small Business Profiles: Alyssa Perez, founder of Stella Lane Shop

Glad to chat with you! First, tell us where we can find you online.

Hi! I’m Alyssa, owner and creator at Stella Lane. You can shop our handmade goodies at stellalaneshop.etsy.com and get updates and follow us on our instagram account @stellalaneshop. 

What inspired you to start your own business?

Well, Stella Lane actually fell in my lap. I was laid off from a contract job with the state and while job searching I decided to make a go for it and start my shop. It took off and after a few months replaced my salary from my “professional” job. Now a year later, I never imagined I’d have the success I do now. And that’s all because of YOU! God closed one door to open a bigger one! So never question why, because I promise you, there is always something better ahead.

What inspires your work and what sets you apart from everyone else?

I have always been an “artist” and have loved feeding my inner creative self since I was young. I get my inspiration from current trends and fellow artists and handmade shops. Every time I see something I like, I think to myself, “how can I make that a hair clip?” All of my items are handcut and I take great pride in my quality.

What is your background and how did you develop the skills to start your business?

Well, I start my college career as a Graphic Design major but then switched to Communications my junior year. My professional career has always been in Marketing and through my career I picked up my graphic skills again. I can say both careers have helped me with my business tremendously! 

What has been your biggest success to date?

My biggest success yet is being my own boss! I mean, everyone wants that, right?

What has been your biggest challenge?

My biggest challenge has been believing in myself and having faith that God was going to take me and my business to new places that I wouldn’t be able to imagine. But the moment I let go, and let God, he always shows me he’s in control.

Describe your typical work day.

A typical day? Hmm…as a business owner everyday is a little different. Usually I start with a big cup of coffee, we all know that gets the energy and creative vibes flowing. 😉 I try to knock out as many orders as possible by 2:30 to make sure I make it to the post office by 4pm!

Which small businesses are you inspired by?

Every small business inspires me! To see ladies working for what they want is empowering! I think most people dream of owning their own business but only some have the courage to fight the fears and actually do it.

If you could go back to the beginning knowing what you know now, what would you have done differently?

Gosh, I really have no idea. I have learned so much over the last year and everything has helped me get to where I am now, even the mistakes.

What’s your best advice for someone who wants to start her own creative business?

Go for it!!! God wouldn’t put a dream in your heart if he wasn’t going to help you reach it. There will be good days for sales and bad days, but at the end of the day, have faith in yourself and your product, because when you do, that will shine through you for others to see.

To read more creative entrepreneur profiles, follow the entire “10 Questions with” series and make sure to check back every Wednesday for more small business profiles. And don’t forget to Stop by Stella Lane Shop and use code CUTEKIDS15 for 15% off your order!