Featured Entrepreneur: Tomato Graphics

by smallbizbee · 18 comments

In my first conversation with our latest "Featured Entrepreneur", Tomato Graphics owner, Rock Langston, shared with me the following:

"I began this business in a remote community where there were few work opportunities, but I had access to two libraries and a lot of time to self-educate. Eight years later I have clients around the States and overseas. "

This is exactly the kind of attitude, and stick to it kind of mindset we love to feature. Rock's passion for what she does, and desire to succeed, permeated through every conversation we had.

Rock will tell us more about what Tomato Graphics is and what she does below, but if you are looking for a graphic design artist to help you with advertisements, mailings, logos, or any other design work for your business check out what Rock is doing...from the looks of things her customers love her and we can see why.

SPECIAL OFFER:

For Small Biz Bee readers Tomato Graphics is offering 15% services until March 31, 2009. If you've been waiting to get some work done - take advantage of this offer!

What is Tomato Graphics?

TG is a graphic design business with a focus on print media for small businesses, non-profits, travel and tourism.

When did you start the business?

In 2001, but I've worked in other areas of design for some years.

How did you get the idea?

My background is in design. I started out as a textile and artwear designer, doing one-off pieces of hand-dyed fabrics and embroidery. After a move to California, I turned my attention to gardening. I became a licensed landscape contractor, designing residential gardens in the Bay Area, and also did interior painting (faux finish and color consulting). When we moved to very rural Colorado I had time, a computer, and a library, so decided to finally pursue my interest in graphic design as a "college of one".

What sources did you use to fund your biz?

I'm a true sole proprietor, using no outside funding.

What was the biggest startup challenges?

Getting clients in the rural area where I was living when I started. There is a lot of the "it'll do" mentality in remote communities where people are used to being self-sufficient, so it was a challenge to get them comfortable with the concept and value of graphic design. Presenting a businesses or organization with the benefits of having a professionally designed identity was a bit daunting. They didn't identify with this approach which I think was often due to a fear of being made to look ignorant or foolish due to a lack of experience with the process. Technology can have that effect on us.

How did you overcome those challenges?

By showing them how much fun it is to have custom-designed graphics and collaterals that get positive comments and results. I present my portfolio by describing the client for each piece. Slowly they see that many businesses are like theirs: small, and new to this approach. I also reassure them that they are a crucial part of the process. Once they understand that, and we get in the cycle of development, they get caught up in and start to have fun with it. When they get their goodies from the printer, they really start to own it.

What has been the response/reaction to your business from your clients?

They really appreciate the attention and support they get from me. Once they get the hang of it, they love coming back for more, and also take pride in being able to be a resource for others.

Best advice you can give to a new startup?

Take good care of your clients. Always be generous, patient, and try to see it from their perspective.

Biggest lesson you've learned from starting your own business?

To always be myself, and work according to my own principles and ethics.

What's the future look like for Tomato Graphics?

Always interesting. I love print media, and as a seasoned designer, find that my challenges are wonderfully different from those of someone just entering the field. I bring such a diverse range of experience and skills to what I do that I feel very free from constraint. I'm busy exploring ways to continue to work with clients in small towns and rural areas, as well as drawing new clients from here and abroad. I work in both Spanish and English, which gives my world a delightful twist.

What inspires you to do what you do?

My pull to be a designer was evident from childhood. What inspires me is the joy I get from the process, no matter what form it takes.

What words describe your career path?

Design, color, people, variety, change, challenge, humor.

In one word, what's the key to success?

Heart. And humor. Maybe they're the same?

Short personal bio:

Rock Langston has made a tour of the midwest and western states, toting her wildly varied design career with her along the way. She now lives outside of Amarillo, Texas with her beloved crew of two Old English Sheepdogs, Lindy and Lola; World's Best Cat, Raster; and always supportive spouse, Ken. Her home

Can’t visit Small Biz Bee on a regular basis? You can stay up to date by having the latest Small Biz Bee news delivered to you for free via RSS or Email.

For exclusive Small Biz Bee content and offers, sign up for our free newsletter: