DREAM JOB Interview // Camille Simmons of Planning Pretty
Dream Job Interview //
Camille Simmons of Planning Pretty
Camille Simmons // Founder Creative Director // Year Launched: 2012
How did you get started in event styling and blogging? How did you know this is what you wanted to do?
I launched Planning Pretty soon after my marriage in November 2012. I DIY’ed and coordinated everything for the wedding and still had the bug to create afterwards. My husband and I relocated to the Bay Area from Los Angeles shortly after, and I was very excited to plan and decorate our new home. I’d just finished reading Blog, Inc the month before and thought the idea of writing a blog could be something enjoyable and maybe even a career. So, I started the blog to showcase my little home projects and recipes. For years I baked, threw parties, and I always loved decor. It felt very natural to focus on these topics and, I was glad to know it could evolve into a career! I knew I always wanted to work for myself somehow, be surrounded by pretty pillows, dishes, and cakes. I just never knew that blogging and styling was the answer! And, it wasn’t until last spring that I finally committed to Planning Pretty as my full-time business. I’m so happy I made the leap!
What were you doing before you launched Planning Pretty?
I worked in a few different industries before starting the blog. After graduating from Harvard in 2010, I worked in the entertainment industry at studios and agencies in Los Angeles. Then I switched over to small business management and eventually tried my hand at pastry too. I started the blog after we moved (out of Los Angeles), but still went on to work full time at a digital marketing agency too. (Digital marketing) was a wonderful way for me to see the business side of blogging: how brands create deals and what they look for in bloggers. I met so many wonderful bloggers through my job and learned what it takes to survive as a full-time blogger. In April 2014, I finally felt ready to turn Planning Pretty into a real business and quit my job!
How did you make the transition to entrepreneur?
It was a little terrifying because it went against everything I was raised to do. Being a creative full-time can be unpredictable, especially money-wise. I saved as much as I could before I quit and discussed my plans with my husband. I made sure to earn a little income from blogging from a few projects in the months prior. That way I could feel confident in my ability to find freelance assignments or brand partnerships. I debated going full-time for months prior to leaving. Finally, I realized that if I wanted to be happy, I had to make a career change. I didn’t share my transition with too many friends and family right away. Once I felt comfortable, I opened up about my career change. I had to educate a lot of people about blogging as a career, how it could evolve, how it was possible to earn a living and that I hadn’t thrown my life away. It took some time but eventually support started to come.
How did you fund your business in the beginning? How long was it before you started seeing a profit?
Luckily starting a blog doesn’t have a huge price tag like most small businesses. Since I did everything at my home, there was no overhead for space. I just needed to pay for a domain and web hosting services (to start). All other expenses were spread out over time: a DSLR camera, business cards, travel for conferences, and Photoshop software. Being able to gradually invest was helpful as I grew my blog and business. My other recurring expenses were minor: props for photo shoots or materials for DIY projects. I made the transition to full-time once I saw consistent profit from contributing and sponsored posts.
What do you enjoy the most about owning your own business?
The freedom! I love getting to choose my hours and my projects. Having a brand that flows from my personality is very satisfying. I love that shopping for dishes, decor and craft supplies is part of my job! Just recently, I moved into my own studio space. I love being able to walk to my office everyday. It feels very official! I recently launched my consulting and styling services too. I love getting to provide assistance from behind the blog as well!
What do you enjoy the least about owning your own business?
It can be overwhelming at times, running everything yourself. There are days when I really wish there was a helping hand. My husband does jump in when he’s home, which is very sweet. Wearing many hats can cause long days, and I have to remind myself to take breaks.
Was there ever a point when you wanted to give up?
Of course; I think it happens to everyone. Self-doubt is very powerful and hard to overcome. But I keep pushing through, determined to uphold my commitment to my readers, my clients and myself.
How have you gotten the word out about Planning Pretty? How did you establish your social media presence?
Features on larger publications like Rue Daily and SMP Living help bring new readers and fans as well. My Instagram and Pinterest accounts generate the most traffic, as well organic keyword search. I’m starting to get a word of mouth following as well, but I’m sure it will take some time to grow. Building a brand the right way just takes time.
What’s a typical day like for you?
I start my day off reviewing my planner/agenda while enjoying a cup of tea. I’ll get through as many tasks as possible before lunch, then take an hour break. If I have meetings or calls, I try to schedule them near lunch or soon after. I really enjoy having the late afternoon to myself to either do research/reading, or crafting for DIY assignments. If I have a photo shoot, my entire (day) is dedicated to prep, styling, photography and sometimes the (photo) editing too. Because I’m a night owl, I usually have late nights reviewing emails and finishing blog posts. I’d like to get to bed earlier, but my brain just works so much faster late at night!
What’s been the most amazing moment for Planning Pretty thus far?
People are slowly starting to recognize my work and I receive random compliments. My friends and family are sharing my work with others on Facebook too. It’s an honor to receive praise and admiration for work that’s so personal and a reflection of who I am.
What advice do you have for aspiring creative entrepreneurs?
Do what makes you happy, seriously. I sat on the idea of being a full-time entrepreneur for longer than necessary. I wish someone would have told me to stop pleasing everyone and be true to myself…well a couple people did, so actually I wish I’d listened earlier! It is so fulfilling and satisfying to be my own boss and align my values with (those of) my business.
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If you’re interested in turning your blog into a successful business, you should be more than inspired by Camille’s Dream Job Interview! I’m so glad we were able to feature Camille on The Feisty House! To learn more about Camille’s business, visit her website and follow her on Instagram and Pinterest!
XO
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