We recently connected with Champaigne Patterson and have shared our conversation below.
Champaigne, thank you so much for joining us. You are such a positive person and it’s something we really admire and so we wanted to start by asking you where you think your optimism comes from?
My optimism primarily comes from my faith, which assures me that life is meant to be joyful and fulfilling. By believing that I deserve happiness and goodness, I maintain a hopeful outlook, even in the negative times. I purposely choose not to let negative situations or bad vibes ruin my day. After all, why would I want to carry anger about past events? Embracing positivity and hope is far more fun.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Pink Champaigne Laundry is a mobile laundry business. I pick up laundry from my clients. I take it back to my facilities, where I wash, dry, fold, and wrap it. Then, I return it to my customers, ready to be put away. What I like most about my business is its difference in my community. When they hear what I do, most people become intrigued, saying things like “That’s a great idea” and “I need someone like you in my life.” The positivity and support I receive from random strangers are so incredible.
What sets my business apart is its unique value in the community. When people hear about my business, they often respond enthusiastically, saying things like, “That’s actually a great idea!” or “I could really use someone like you!” The overwhelming positivity and encouragement I receive from everyone is truly inspiring.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
When I started running my business full-time, I knew I’d need to have excellent customer service, open communication, and problem-solving skills.
I knew right away that I’d need excellent customer service skills because I handle other people’s laundry. When I first started, I knew some clients would be skeptical about handing their dirty laundry off to a stranger. Still, I assured them during the booking process that I am a professional, and my business holds a judge-free policy. The goal isn’t to make my clients uncomfortable about letting someone else handle their laundry chores. It’s to take that chore off their already busy to-do list and feel less stressed when doing it.
Having positive communication skills gives reassurance to my clients. I have open communication with my clients. There are no issues with what number to call or what email to send questions and concerns to. My social media pages use direct messages for communication. And since it’s just me and every notification comes to my phone, my response time is 100%.
Lastly, I believe my unique services open up a line for questions: What detergents do I use? What’s the turnaround time? Is weight involved in the pricing? How do clients pay for services? Before officially opening my booking sites for scheduling, I thought of all the questions I would have for a service like this. Then, I did a survey and asked around to see what other questions other people would have. I ensured problems that could come up would have an answer right away.
As far as advice for soon-to-be entrepreneurs, I’d say go for it! I saw a need and decided to take that leap of faith and fix it. I have been in the customer service field for over 10 years, so I have a clear idea of how to implement that into my business. When my business idea started forming, I learned early on that enhancing my problem-solving skills would help me look more professional. I had all the answers to any question, and my potential clients loved that.
I am currently enrolled at Ivy Tech, majoring in business administration, because there are other skills I need to improve to progress with Pink Champaigne Laundry. Do that, too! Take a course or a class. Get that certification or degree to help boost your forward. If you need to enhance your skills before starting your entrepreneurial dream, do it!
Before we go, any advice you can share with people who are feeling overwhelmed?
When I feel overwhelmed, I take a break—literally, physically, emotionally, and mentally—whatever you want to call it. I also pray.
I have wonderful long-term clients who understand when I express that I’m feeling overwhelmed and need a break. After all, I’m not a robot. Managing a small business can be overwhelming at times, even when you’re passionate about your work.
After six years in a corporate job, I decided to pursue this business full-time. It was a leap of genuine faith, and I truly enjoy it. There are times when I face challenges or multiple issues, but I wouldn’t exchange this experience for a typical 9-5 job. I was aware it wouldn’t be easy from the start. That’s why I prioritize taking breaks to prevent burnout and ensure I stay focused on the end goal through prayer.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.pinkcls.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/pinkcls
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PinkCLSLLC
- Linkedin: https://linkedin.com/company/pinkcls
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