Biggest Moment of My Career

I can remember the exact moment. The smell of fresh cut grass in the summer. I remember when I made a flyer in Microsoft Word with a clip art image and my phone number on a pull tab just sitting at home hoping somebody would call me to mow their yard in my hometown of Haysi, Virginia. 

I remember the excitement and pride I felt when I got my first sale. I remember wanting the customer to be impressed and continue doing business with me. 

This was my first business (well sort of). And it was from that moment, I knew I was hooked.

Most of you know the exact same feeling. Small business owners, creators, entrepreneurs, and all working in this space, we all know that feeling. 

This is a big day, and I feel that same excitement all over again. 

I appreciate all of you that are in attendance and those that are viewing via livestream. I want to give my sincere gratitude to UVA Wise, Opportunity SWVA and the City of Norton for their support. 

I’ve been an entrepreneur since 2015 when my sister and I founded Lincoln Road in her kitchen. Some of you may be enjoying our coffee right now and if you’re not, shameless plug, but you can walk right across the road to our coffee lounge after. 

I became a full time entrepreneur after leaving the non-profit sector in 2021. I’ve worked in healthcare, food & beverage, retail, and consulting and now have 10+ years of experience in business development, marketing, sales and operations. 

A challenge I’ve found on this journey is that being an entrepreneur or a creator can be lonely at times. We crave community - we want to connect with others who share our passions, who understand the struggles, and who can offer support and encouragement.

 Unique events led by entrepreneurs are needed. If we foster a sense of belonging and community, we can help others feel less alone and empowered to pursue their dreams.

With that need in mind, I’m delighted to announce  the launch of CreatorCon, an educational experience for entrepreneurs and creators to network, share ideas and takeaway actionable items for growth. 

When attendees  leave this conference we want them to feel inspired, supported by mentors and informed to grow their adventure in business.

At CreatorCon, you’ll hear insights and experiences from the most talented and innovative voices through breakout sessions and panel discussions. 

During the conference, we will be hosting a pitch competition for existing businesses to help with their expansion.

We will kick off the festivities with a Founder's Happy Hour featuring a local band. After the conference, we'll be hosting a block party, where attendees and members of the community can come together to celebrate and deepen their connection.

As the founder of CreatorCon, I'm incredibly proud to support the startup economy and provide entrepreneurs with meaningful and supportive relationships. 

From startup founders to long-time business owners, artists or aspiring YouTubers, CreatorCon is the perfect opportunity to expand your network with like-minded individuals, learn from experts, and get inspired to grow or start an adventure in business.

We hope to see you at CreatorCon August 23rd and 24th in downtown Norton, VA. Registration is now open at creatorcon.community