Meet Bianca Labrador | Writer, Communications Specialist, and Travel Advisor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Bianca Labrador and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Bianca, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Starting my own business was really born out of necessity. I had started freelance writing on the side to get some extra money, and then I got pregnant with our second daughter. Unfortunately, the company I was working for didn’t fall under FMLA since they were below the employee threshold. They offered me two weeks of maternity leave, and wanted me to start work again after two weeks. WIth our first daughter, they had given me a month, but I was still required to work remotely.

For me, this was a sign to move on and pursue my own passions. Starting my own business has allowed me to be home with my kids when they need me, without having to ask permission.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I’ve always loved writing. When I was a kid, I’d write stories on my dad’s old typewriter, and I never stopped.

Starting out wasn’t easy. I started by working for content mills. They’d pay pennies per word, but it helped me gain experience. Then, I took a course from a freelance writer that was extremely helpful. I think it cost me $20. She showed me how to create clips, grow my portfolio, and network for clients. It was probably the best $20 I spent when starting out. It also falls into my other belief: Never stop learning!

The way media is digested is constantly changing. Formatting articles, hashtags, SEO, it’s never stagnant. I try to pay attention to what other people in the industry are doing. I also highly recommend following Sir Richard Branson’s advice, “ If somebody offers you an amazing opportunity but you are not sure you can do it, say yes-then learn how to do it later!”

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I actually just did this! My sister is my best friend and she came up to visit. I took her to the local book stores. Then, we ate at a local Greek restaurant, the Old Village Grille. For snacks, we loaded up on treats from the Oakmont Bakery. We took our kids to the Carnegie Science Center to explore and visit the Vikings exhibit. We also loved going through the Allegheny County Cemetery. There’s something about looking at the old headstones and mausoleums that I find comfort in.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are so many people who have supported me on my journey. My husband, Chris has been my constant throughout this journey. My kids have always given me a reason to continue moving forward. My brother and sister have been along for the ride as well. I just hope that I can reciprocate the same support they’ve given me. I also greatly appreciate my clients who have supported me and trusted me to help share their stories.

Website: https://biancawrites823.contently.com/

Instagram: @biancaswrites823

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/biancalabrador