We had the good fortune of connecting with Ce’Erica Allen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ce’Erica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
For me starting a business starts with a shift in mindset. Not everyone is cut out to be a business owner or entrepreneur and that’s ok!. For those who are truly ready to be their own boss there are a few things that you must begin to accept first to get you prepared for the long road ahead. Make Investments (be hopeful for success but be prepared for failure.) Don’t be afraid of failure so much it prevents you from succeeding. Sometimes you have to be willing to make investments or do things that may not pan out but you have to take chances. It’s definitely ok to write something as a loss, but you always have to look at what you’ve learned from that experience. As long as you are prepared for both outcomes you won’t have unmatched expectations that ultimately set you back. You won’t always be able to follow your passion Most people think they can leave their 9-5 and be free. But that’s not the case. There are a lot of things you have to do that are not fun. The business management alone is a job in itself. It’s important to understand that you have to equally care and work on the not so fun parts as much as the actual business itself. And if you need to hire a professional so you can focus on the fun part, budget for that. I think many people are misled by the glamorized version of entrepreneurship. The truth is it’s hard work and sacrifice, you have to be willing to be uncomfortable and take on things you don’t want to do. Ultimately it will pay off when you are financially free.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
FRSH Marketing, Branding & Design, LLC was created to craft clean and hassle-free design solutions for passionate small businesses. Led by the notion less is more FRSH focuses on branding driven by the “WHY”. Initially I never planned to become an entrepreneur. My focus was just on getting a job and living the cookie cutter life. After I had my daughter and got married I realized there was more to all and I truly craved the freedom to enjoy the simple things. Now I’m driven by my family and finding ways I can work less and make more. I want people to know you can have it all! It’s all about establishing boundaries and keeping your purpose at the center.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would love for my besties to come into town, here’s what we might do: Ponce city market rooftop Fat Matt’s 🐷BBQ with live jazz🎵 🎡 in centennial park Top Golf ⛳️ Coca-Cola Factory 🏭 Aquarium 🐠 Civil Rights Museum ✊ Old Lady Gang — Downtown 🥘

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My family was a key component in teaching me this lesson. My husband, Devario Allen helped me tremendously in establishing my value.

Website: www.keepingitfrsh.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keepingit_frsh/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/keepingit_frsh
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keepingitfrsh/?ref=bookmarks

Image Credits
Tatyanna Brown – Photographer

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