Tell me about yourself and your business

My name is Ana Mendiola and I graduated from that Art Institute of Dallas in Interior Design. After graduating, I move to El Paso Texas to work at the family business, which was in construction. With my father doing custom homes, I begin to use the skills I learned at school such as 3-D renderings. Little by little I began to know the subcontractors as I became project manager.

What drove you to start your own business?

Although I still work with the family business, I started AM Designs because I noticed there was a niche for remodeling/interior design that some contractors did not want to take on because either the project was too small or too big for them and I knew some vendors and subcontractors that wouldn’t mind the size of the project.

What were the challenges you faced when you started your business?

I had a business plan but it was still frightening not knowing where to begin. Getting all the paperwork together to get the business registered, setting up a business account with the bank as well as finding the right person to do
marketing was challenging.

What did you do to overcome those challenges?

I did research online and I asked everyone I knew that had started their own business who they used for their services.

What have you learned about yourself during this process?

That I really do love what I do – that’s why I don’t mind doing the extra work.

What has been the most rewarding moment that you have experienced since the start of your business?

When my first client’s house was completely done and they referred me to a new client.

What would be your advice to young entrepreneurs that wish to start their own business?

Always be prepared, as well as being flexible because there are many ways of getting stuff done. The hard work is worth it at the end, knowing your company was able to accomplish the job.

For more info about her business:

http://elpasotruss.com/ – services

Interview by Xinia Hernandez