Welcome to another episode of The Female Founder with Bridget Fitzpatrick, Co-founder of ASBN and the CBT Automotive Network. The Female Founder is a show all about helping women grow their businesses and reach their full potential. Each episode will highlight inspiring stories, offer real-world tips, and advice to help you grow professionally and personally.
Today’s guest is Libby Hockenberry, founder of The Victorian Atlanta, a specialty plant shop with green thumb consulting and a large variety of unique and hard-to-find house plants.
First, Hockenberry shares insight into her experience as a small business owner and offers advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the importance of courage and belief in one’s ideas, regardless of gender, and encourages others to take the plunge and pursue their passions. Hockenberry highlights the need for resilience and problem-solving skills, especially in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic, which forces them to pivot their business to an online and Instagram-focused model.
With the success of their first shop at Ponce City Market, Hockenberry, and Co-founder Cary Smith are expanding their business by opening a second location in East Atlanta Village in partnership with Bellwood Coffee. They are passionate about supporting the local community and fostering connections among small businesses.
Hockenberry also discusses the dynamics of running a business alongside her husband and emphasizes the importance of staying in their respective lanes while leveraging their unique strengths to create a balanced partnership.
Throughout the interview, Hockenberry shares valuable insights into the qualities of a successful entrepreneur, such as courage, vulnerability, humility, and perseverance. She encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to trust their gut instincts and seek support from mentors and fellow business owners.
Looking ahead, the Victorian Atlanta has exciting plans in store, including workshops, classes, and vintage pop-up markets to bring the community together and support local brands.
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