Throughout the holiday season, we're highlighting the small businesses in our community, particularly those owned by Black people, Indigenous people, and people of color. The fourth and final in our series of featured business owners is Denise Ester, the owner of Inspire365 Planner!
We asked her a few questions about herself and about her business that we wanted to share with you!
What was your motivation behind starting your business?
Frustrated and complaining to my friend Sarah about not finding a planner that had everything I needed without spending so much money, I jokingly said "I am going to create my own." I created the Inspire365 planner realizing I was not the only person who needed a planner to fit a busy schedule. I thoughtfully created every part of this planner with women from all walks of life in mind.
How long have you been in business?
Inspire365 Planner has been in business for 1 year but it is an extension of my event planning business Muse Company which has been in business for 6 years. I have been an event planner and fundraiser in the nonprofit sector for over 15 years so it's definitely something I enjoy and I've been doing for a long time.
What’s your favorite part of running your business?
My favorite part of running my business is serving others in a way that makes a lasting impact on them and those they are around. It makes me feel like I am the stone that makes the ripples in the water.
1-2 Fun Facts About Yourself
I am very adventurous. I will try anything once (within reason). Going parasailing and up the CN Tower were my last adventures but, once COVID is over, I will be back at it.
I love to travel. I have visited 45 of the 51 states and 5 different countries.
If we fail to plan, then we plan to fail. Although we've faced the uncertainty that is 2020, we've also learned how to pivot this year. Just because things are up in the air right now doesn't mean that we can't still plan ahead. Plus, there's nothing wrong with asking for help, which is why we're very fortunate to share with you Denise's Inspire365 Planner and her Inspire365 Planning Circle starting in January 2021. Visit her website to read more about how her planner and her 6-week accountability group can get you closer to achieving your goals! Note: Spots for the 6-week accountability group are filling up, so make sure you register today!
Looking for inspiration and a community of people going after their goals? Follow her on Facebook and Instagram!