Today we’d like to introduce you to Julita Galwa.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
When I was 19 years old, I moved from Poland to Hermosa Beach California by myself for an exchange culture program (au pair) after completing the program, I became an international student in El Camino community college in Torrance CA. My English was good back then, but attending college helped me gain confidence in speaking, reading, and writing. At the beginning of 2009, I lived with my host family (from the exchange culture program) and until this day I’m happy to call them my family here in the USA. One year into college, I decided is time to get my own place. Everyone around me said it’s not the right choice since it’s very expensive to rent and furnishing the apartment. Since I’m a problem-solving person, I decided to get a roommate to cut the cost of renting and not to buy furniture at all other than a desk for studying and mattress to sleep on the floor. I started to find furniture on the side of the street on the way to college. First, I found a vintage dresser, bought 5$ paint and painted it. Every time I had people over, they couldn’t believe how cool and original my work was. And that’s how I ended up furnishing the whole place under 100$. Eight years later and many 9-5 jobs that I didn’t enjoy it but like everyone knows “you gotta pay the bills” in October 2018, I saved up one year of living expenses and found a small shop for rent on Craigslist. I decided either go all out or go home and go back to my 9-5 job. I started to work for my self and that’s how THAT’S WHAT SHE MADE became a reality.
In the beginning, I was surprised to find out I have to learn many things that come with running your own business. Managing time wisely, not working 24/7 and burning out, networking, marketing and so one. In the beginning, it was slow I painted furniture and sold it one by one, I choose to open my own business because I struggled with finding happiness in regular 9-5 and big corporations. Now, I get to put my creativity and million ideas to work. Nowadays, the art of making something with bare hands is disappearing, that’s why I like what I do there is nothing more rewarding than seeing your own work from start to finish. I love that I’m able to save old furniture that otherwise would end up in the landfill. It’s so easy to just buy cheap furniture that doesn’t last and just put it in the trash… old furniture is made so well that lasts decades and that way we don’t contribute to a wasteland. Today, I’m a happy and sometimes scared (because who’s not when you are your own boss, haha) business owner that loves her work.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
Before I decide to start my own business, I saved up one year of expenses and overhead. I would advise everyone who wants to start their own business to plan ahead and be aware of where your money goes, have a budget and be creative. For example, when I was stating out I need it many power tools. Instead of buying everything brand new I went on Facebook market place and bought used tools, that way I saved money for renting my studio and etc.
Please tell us more about your work, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
At my studio, I restore and paint vintage furniture. I often have clients that want to update old furniture that they got from their parents, grandparents and so on. I love that people trust me with family treasures. I’m known for my bohemian/relaxing style light airy colors and decor. I’m proud of my business because by updating what we already have is a great way of not adding to the wasteland. What sets me apart from others is that I never make the same furniture once you buy a pice from me it will be one of the kind and a conversation piece.
Which women have inspired you in your life?
Women that inspired me the most is my mom she is a hard working person, always kind and honest even though she lives back in Europe, we call each other often. She is my best friend and support. What inspires me the most about her is that even when times are hard, she manages to overcome any obstacles that come her way with hope and smile. Also, my sister is my inspiration, she is an amazing photographer that took pictures of me while I was visiting Europe just for this interview. We often spend hours brainstorming ideas for my business and hers as well. We love coming up with ideas on how to improve each other and build each other up.
Contact Info:
- Address: 623 W Pacific Coast Hwy, Long Beach, CA 90806
- Phone: 3108480356
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thats.what.she.made
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thats.what.she.madee/
Image Credit:
Kaja Fradziak
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