What are some challenge you face owning your own business?
The current state of the economy works against small business owners, especially when the service you are offering (such as party planning) is a luxury that many might not consider to be within their budget.
Where do you see your business in 5 years form now?
In five years, I would like to see Pocket Full or Parties flourishing and becoming the premier business in the Tampa Bay area for children's party planning!
What marketing strategies have used to build your brand?
I have used a couple of strategies. First and foremost, I have used online networking and promotion through websites such as Facebook, Twitter, and the Children's Party Network. Through the use of these tools, I have been able to make connections with amazing people and businesses in the industry.
Because my business is so new, I am just beginning local marketing. I have used Craigslist and local mom's websites. I have also placed my business cards and brochures at a variety of child and party-related places such as preschools, bakeries, and children's clothing stores.
What would you tell others starting out?
Some key pointers:
1. Start out slowly, building your clientele through local advertising and word-of-mouth. Do not expect to be the next Amy Atlas overnight!
2. Have a business plan and all of the little details worked out before you "go public" (e.g., business cards, brochures, contracts, etc).
3. Make connections in the industry both locally and nationally. Do not be afraid to introduce yourself and your business to anyone and everyone who may be an asset for gaining business!
If you could chose one celebrity to market your product, who would it be and why?
Another hard one!! My favorite actress is Gwyneth Paltrow, so I will nominate her. Especially since she is a mom, seems like such a good person, and is talented all-around (did you see her on Glee - boy, can she sing!).
Can you see yourself with a reality show like the ones on Food, WE, or TLC, and if so what would be the plot of the show?
Definitely! I actually oftentimes pretend I am a reality show star! LOL! It would be called "The Real Housewives of Tampa Bay," and I would love for it to feature mom's of all types (such as my neighbor and many colleagues at work) who are balancing mothering with many other duties successfully!
Favorites:
Favorite Color: Red
Favorite Food: Cookies
Favorite Song or Musicians: I cannot pick one!!! Anything by Metric, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Sleigh Bells, The Black Keys, Silversun Pickups, My Chemical Romance, Phoenix, Weezer, Johnny Cash, Social Distortion, The Smiths, Lady GaGa, Taylor Swift
Favorite Children's Book: The Napping House
Favorite Vacation Spot: Adirondacks
Favorite Activity to do with your child(children): Goofing around and being silly
What is your website, facebook fan page, and twitter url's?
Blog: http://pocketfullofparties.blogspot.com
FB page: http://www.facebook.com/pocketfullofparties
Twitter: twitter.com/pcktflofparties
Planning a New Year's Eve Bash for your family and friends? Little Ladybug Designs is giving away Printable New Year's Eve Party Invitations and Favor Tags for Pocket Full of Parties first giveaway! Stop by the Pocket Full of Parties Blog to enter.
Andrea is also offering Little Ladybug Designs readers a custom inspiration board for any type of children's party for $15 (that is $10 off). Email {pocketfullofparties at gmail dot com}for more information!
Thank you so much Andrea for taking the time to answer these questions. I am looking forward to seeing more photos from the beautiful parties you style!
If you would like to be featured as the next Mompreneur Ladybug Spotlight of the Month please email Little Ladybug Designs at {info at littleladybugdesigns dot com} 
