Joanie French On Her Business That Creates Unforgettable Experiences Through Nature

Hi, Joanie! Please share a brief introduction about yourself and your business:

Hey there! I'm Joanie, the creative mind behind Harmony Escape Experiences. Based in Winnipeg, Manitoba, I'm passionate about crafting unforgettable moments through personalized events. As an Office Administrator by day and an aspiring entrepreneur always, I'm on a mission to create harmonious and joyous experiences. My heart beats for event planning, and I could talk about it for hours. I'm not just about business; I love singing, cherishing nature, and spending time with animals. Oh, and did I mention my fondness for gaming and enjoying the calming vibes of nature with a touch of the green herb? Dreaming of a future that involves a cozy house, a loving family, and a thriving business, I'm determined to elevate my income game. Join me on this exciting journey, and let's create magic together!

What excites you about being an Entreprenista League member?

Being a part of the Entreprenista League brings a thrilling sense of community and empowerment. I'm excited to connect with like-minded women who share a passion for entrepreneurship. The opportunity to exchange ideas, experiences, and learn from each other is invaluable. It's a supportive space that fuels my drive, and I'm eager to contribute, grow, and celebrate successes together!

That's amazing to hear and we're so happy to be with you along your business journey! What made you take the leap to start your own business?

Taking the leap into entrepreneurship was born out of a desire for autonomy and the pursuit of a passionate vision. The spark ignited when I realized the potential to create something meaningful, aligned with my values and aspirations. The thrill of building my own path and making a positive impact drove me to embark on this exciting journey. It's about turning dreams into reality and shaping a future that resonates with my essence.

We love to see that sense of independence and empowerment! What was your background prior to starting your own business?

Before venturing into entrepreneurship, I laid the foundation early on by starting my first business at the age of 13. This early experience kindled a flame within me, constantly fueling the belief that I could do more with my life. With a background shaped by a myriad of experiences, both professional and personal, I harnessed the lessons learned to propel me forward into the realm of business ownership. Every step has been a building block, preparing me for the challenges and triumphs of running my own enterprise.

Did you always know you wanted to be an entrepreneur?

While my journey into entrepreneurship began at a young age, the realization that I wanted to be an entrepreneur wasn't always crystal clear. It evolved over time, shaped by my early ventures and the deep-rooted desire to create, innovate, and lead. The initial spark ignited during my first business endeavor at 13, and with each subsequent experience, the path became clearer. The call to be an entrepreneur gradually transformed from a youthful exploration to a passionate commitment, and I've embraced it wholeheartedly ever since.

It all starts somewhere! Take us back to when you first launched your business, what was your marketing strategy to get the word out and did it go as planned?

Launching my business was an exhilarating journey filled with anticipation and strategic planning. My marketing strategy blended both online and offline approaches to create a comprehensive brand presence. Leveraging social media platforms, I engaged with the community, shared captivating content, and utilized targeted ads to reach a broader audience. Simultaneously, I embraced local events, networking, and collaborations to establish a physical presence. While the initial plan laid a strong foundation, the real-world dynamics brought valuable lessons. The online engagement surpassed expectations, creating a robust digital footprint. However, the local events proved even more impactful than anticipated, fostering authentic connections and word-of-mouth referrals. Flexibility became a key element, allowing me to adapt and refine strategies based on real-time feedback. The blend of online prowess and local community involvement ultimately formed a dynamic marketing mix that propelled the business forward.

What is the biggest challenge you have encountered along the way and what did you learn from it?

While I'm still in the early stages of my entrepreneurial journey, one notable challenge has been navigating the balance between creative vision and practical execution. It's exciting to conceptualize innovative ideas for my business, but translating them into tangible results within the constraints of time and resources requires thoughtful prioritization. This challenge has been a valuable learning experience, teaching me the importance of setting realistic goals, breaking down larger tasks into manageable steps, and being adaptable. Embracing a structured approach while preserving the creative essence has proven instrumental in overcoming this hurdle. It's a continuous learning curve, and I'm eagerly embracing each lesson to refine my approach and ensure sustained growth.

What is the accomplishment you are the most proud of to date?

One of my proudest accomplishments to date has been building a strong network of like-minded individuals and professionals. Networking has not only opened doors to valuable collaborations but also provided a supportive community that understands the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. Taking the plunge into my business is another source of immense pride. From envisioning Harmony Escape Experiences to witnessing its initial stages of realization, each step has been a testament to my determination and passion. It's a journey filled with learning, growth, and the joy of creating something meaningful.

Networking is such a powerful tool! Do you believe in work/life balance? What are some of your best tips?

I believe in the importance of work-life balance. Setting a schedule is key to maintaining that balance. I make sure to allocate specific time for work and leisure, allowing myself dedicated moments for relaxation and personal activities. Making the schedule enjoyable is crucial. Incorporating activities I love, such as singing, spending time in nature, and gaming, into my routine brings joy and helps strike the right balance. It's all about creating a harmonious blend that nurtures both professional and personal aspects of life.

What have you achieved recently that you'd like to celebrate with our community?

Thrilled to share a recent achievement - I've secured a spot at the Wonderful Wedding Show! Excited to connect with over 15,000 people seeking unique experiences. Looking forward to creating unforgettable moments for countless couples!

Congratulations, Joanie! That's incredible news. What's next for your business? What can we expect to see over the next few years?

Looking ahead, my vision is to foster global connections and establish a fully sustainable business. Stay tuned for exciting developments and a continued commitment to creating memorable and eco-friendly experiences!

Learn more about the Entreprenista League and join today!