(1) LAEDA: Entrepreneurship is a very challenging path to take with many different possible directions. What made you decide to become an entrepreneur?

I am living my dream. Entrepreneurship has been a challenge, but I want to build something new that would benefit many different businesses. I want to build a web design and photography business that I can pass on to the next generation.

(2) LAEDA: Why did you choose your industry?

I love photography and web design. So I decided to take the technological experience I gained while in the Navy and combine it with my passion.

(3) LAEDA: Tell me about your experience while attending EDTP. What have the major takeaways been from the program? Have you had any “Ah-ha!” moments? How did the program help you?

The program helped me greatly. It was not easy, but I was committed to finishing it and walking away with more than I started. One of my “Ah-ha!” moments was during the Marketing sessions because I did not realize how powerful a good marketing strategy can be.

(4) LAEDA: Tell me about your journey on the road to business start-up. What have been some of the challenges, successes, failures, etc.?

I have been in business for a little less than a year. I have been getting clients and increasing sales, but I know I still have a ways to go. I counted on my courage to form my company will continue to use it toward being a great success. As far as a failure goes, I just need to be a bit more organized—my schedule can get really hectic sometimes.

(5) LAEDA: Could you tell me a little about where your business is today?

It's just me right now, but I am working on hiring more employees because my business is growing.

(6) LAEDA: Do you have any advice for future (or existing) entrepreneurs?

Do your research, find a mentor and then just step out and live your dream.

Congratulations to Cicely Wiggins for completing EDTP and recommitting to her journey on the path of entrepreneurship. Her company, Luv Is Living Designs is a new and modern design firm that focuses photography and website design needs for small businesses. The goal is to use photography to create a website that tells the client's unique story. Luv Is Living Designs is the answer to your marketing needs. Their goal is to capture the heart of your business in ways that no one else can. For more information, contact Cicely Wiggins via telephone at (856) 839-1270, via email at Cicely@luvisliving.com and via website at www.luvisliving.com. Luv Our Service, Live Your Dream!

The Entrepreneurial Development Training Program (EDTP) is a free, nine-week business skills training course offered in Camden, NJ in the Winter Spring and Fall each year. Qualified entrepreneurs receive 72+ hours of training from industry professionals, business planning, and one year of technical assistance. Apply online at www.LAEDA.com.