“I could figure out how to make something out of, and kind of just one thing led to another, and a friend of mine suggested that maybe I start doing this for other people.” -Carrie Nelson Welcome to a brand-new episode of the Woodpreneur Podcast. Today, your host Steve Larosiliere is joined by Carrie Nelson from 4 Chicks Furniture & Wood Art. Carrie shares her inspiring journey from woodworking enthusiast to successful business owner. We delve into Carrie's origin story, her entrepreneurial spirit, and the lessons learned along the way. Carrie's journey into woodworking and entrepreneurship began with humble roots, nurtured by her upbringing in a farmhouse south of Chicago. Learning the ropes from her father, she developed a knack for woodworking, which blossomed further after she found herself as the primary furniture maker following a divorce. With determination and creativity, Carrie began crafting furniture pieces from reclaimed materials, igniting the spark for what would become 4Chicks Furniture. Listen now and get the whole story! “Now I keep a very tight schedule, because you know, time is money and clients are waiting, and, you know, so it looks different now than it did then. But yeah, it's kind of like having a newborn.” -Carrie Nelson Transition to Entrepreneurship: Despite having a degree in hotel management, Carrie's passion for woodworking led her to pivot from her corporate career to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams. The transition wasn't without its challenges, but Carrie's unwavering commitment to her craft fueled her drive to succeed. Her first client, a friend who commissioned a dollhouse, marked the beginning of 4 Chicks Furniture's journey, which eventually led to corporate projects and a thriving business. Managing Growth: As 4 Chicks Furniture grew, Carrie faced the challenge of balancing hands-on craftsmanship with the demands of managing a burgeoning enterprise. With a keen eye for organization and a flexible approach to scheduling, Carrie adeptly navigated the complexities of project management, ensuring timely delivery and client satisfaction. Despite the occasional setbacks, Carrie's commitment to continuous improvement and adaptability propelled her business forward. Empowering Others: Central to Carrie's philosophy is the belief in empowering others and fostering a collaborative work environment. By providing opportunities for her team to grow and learn, Carrie not only cultivates a sense of ownership but also fosters a culture of creativity and innovation within 4 Chicks Furniture. Each milestone achieved by her team members is celebrated as a testament to their collective success. Maintaining Perspective: While growth and success are important, Carrie remains grounded in her vision for 4 Chicks Furniture. Rather than aspiring for grandiose expansion, Carrie values maintaining a personal connection with her clients and preserving the essence of craftsmanship in every piece created. For her, success isn't measured by wealth but by the ability to sustain a fulfilling livelihood doing what she loves. Conclusion: Carrie Nelson's journey with 4 Chicks Furniture exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From humble beginnings in her garage to a thriving enterprise, Carrie's story is a testament to the boundless possibilities that arise when one follows their dreams with unwavering dedication. As she continues to craft success, Carrie Nelson serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and artisans alike, reminding us that with determination and creativity, anything is possible. Want to get in touch with Carrie Nelson? Contact her through: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/4chicksfurniture/ Website: https://www.4chicksfurniture.com/