Work-at-Home Success Story

PF: What kind of services do you provide?
Tammy: I am a web/graphic designer. I have designed for all different kinds of genres, from web hosting companies to web ministry websites.

PF: Is it all done from your home?
Tammy: Yes. I have a schedule that I go by so that I can balance my time with work and with my family. 100% of what I do is done on the computer.

PF: What made you decide to work from home?
Tammy: Well, it really just started as a hobby. Then the more I got into it, I started making some money. When my husband lost his job due to illness, I went full time with it, and it is now our only source of income.

PF: How many hours per week do you normally put into your business?
Tammy: I am set up to work about 8 hours a day, 40 hours a week. But, I generally work over that, probably closer to 50 or 60 hours a week and some weekends. Just because. If I sit down at the computer, my business is automatically in my face, and I just can't tear myself away sometimes!

PF: How do you market / advertise your services?
Tammy: A lot of my business is generated from posting on different forums, and entering design contests. I also have a lot of repeat customers, and they share my information with their friends. I am wanting to do some more advertising, but haven't had the time.

PF: Why does this type of work bring you joy?
Tammy: Because it's something I'm good at, and that I find to be fun. I've always had mathematical and artistic tendencies, so to be able to supply for my family by doing something I enjoy, brings me much satisfaction.

PF: What was the most challenging thing about actually getting started?
Tammy: Well, in the design business, if you don't have experience and a portfolio, then you don't make much money since you can't charge for work that you can't guarantee by the security of past experience.

PF: What do you know now that you wish you knew then?
Tammy: Well, I'm always learning new things. The more experience I have, the more I learn. I suppose if I had been to school or took a course somewhere, I would be that much further ahead. But really, I'm satisfied with how it's gone. I don't have many regrets, none that come to mind!

PF: What is the most rewarding thing about working from home?
Tammy: I think that would be a tie between the money I save, and being with my family. I don't have to put out money in transportation, I don't have to have an extra wardrobe, and lunch is right in the next room - the kitchen. Plus, even though my children know not to bother me too much when I'm working, I can get a hug from my girls anytime I need one. I also like the fact that I can take a day off whenever I need to.

PF: What is the most challenging?
Tammy: Probably just gaining customers. It's not like punching a clock where you have guaranteed hours. It's more like a general contractor. You have to find a way to get your name out there and gain projects. If you don't do the work to get attention, then you won't have the work to make money.

PF: How do you balance work and family?
Tammy: At first, it was hard. I would get so engrossed in work, that I would literally work all day. My husband finally sat us all down, and we devised a schedule. Now I have set times during my work day that I get to spend time with my children.

PF: How have you seen God's hand in your business?
Tammy: Isn't He great!? It seems as though He can only trust me with "just enough". Every time a need arises, He gives me "just enough." And when my husband lost his job, God gave me a boost in my business, opening up more opportunities and repeat business. He always takes care of my family.

PF: What advice do you have for women who are considering starting a home-based business?
Tammy: I would probably say that it is best to start with something that you know you can do. If you are just "trying out" something that you don't know much about, chances are you'll give it up. But if you can find a way to make money with something that you already do, or know that you can do, then it is a lot easier to stick to it.

PF: How can people contact you for further information about your business?
Tammy: I have contact information available on my website, www.tammyhartdesigns.com.

Editor's Note: Tammy is responsible for the lovely design of the Positively Feminine Guestbook.

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