Today we’d like to introduce you to Robyn Young.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
My background in branding before starting my business was far from linear. I started in market research for companies like Nike and Target, moved into fashion styling and editorial for luxury publications like Modern Luxury and LA Confidential, then segued into branded content, working on personal brands for celebrities like Tracee Ellis Ross (Blackish), Lauren Conrad and Harry Shum Jr (Glee) as well as large corporations like UCLA. I then worked with General Assembly, where I learned all the ins and outs of launching a product, designing the UX for that product, marketing the product, etc.
I started my business just over a year ago, after quitting my job in tech with no concrete plan or clients in place – oh yeah, whilst 5 weeks pregnant too (don’t even worry about it). Since then, I’ve grown my business from the ground up with grassroots, DIY tactics that I now teach other solopreneurs and startups to do through ongoing workshops, a Facebook Community called Self Made Solopreneurs, and our upcoming Brand Like a Boss Bootcamp.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Definitely not smooth. When I started out, I really had no idea what I was doing. I was trying to do everything at the jump; social media, branding, web design, content strategy, etc. thinking I was making myself more applicable to a greater number of clients. What I was actually doing was making it harder for clients to self-identify with my business as an answer to their specific needs. The irony is that my brand strategy was all off.
Once I got crystal clear on my brand, who I was, who I wanted to help, and what the bigger vision was for my company, I started booking clients left and right.
In addition to that, I was very pregnant and had to deal with the challenges of growing a baby (morning sickness, exhaustion, hormones) along with the growing pains of starting a business (long hours, constant hustle, etc.). I was surprised to find that most people thought I was just biding my time till the baby came. It was a challenge to show them that I had every intention of continuing my business with a newborn. Not to mention finding that balance between enjoying those first couple of months on maternity leave and keeping the business afloat.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Robyn Young & Co. – what should we know?
We elevate brands by taking a deep dive into our client’s business/market/customer, and creating smart brand strategies BEFORE we get to the graphic design. Once we have a solid brand concept in place, we create all of the assets needed to execute on that brand – logo, business cards, website, even some packaging and letterhead. Starting with strategy not only ensures that we are designing an authentic brand that has heart, it also cuts down on rounds because we try to get a full picture before we begin designing.
Our belief is that only with a consistent brand in place can a company create the kind of impression that cuts through the white noise of our digital age.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’ve had tons and tons of mentors, supporters, cheerleaders, advocates and teammates who have played a role in our success. Fellow members at my coworking space, Industrious who have been there for many a venting session. Mentors who have steered me away from disaster and challenged me to think bigger than I felt I was. Former coworkers and friends at General Assembly, many of whom went onto to create their own companies as well, provided familiar faces and industry events, referrals and the occasional glass of wine when I really needed it. My amazing team of designers who always go above and beyond. And my husband and family members for holding down the fort at home and keeping my spirits up on the tough days.
Contact Info:
- Address: 600 Wilshire Blvd, Suite 500
- Website: http://robynyoung.co
- Phone: 323 574 7057
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @robynyoung.co
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robynyoung.co/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/robyncyoung
- Other: https://www.pinterest.com/robynyoungco
Image Credit:
Grey & Elle
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