Semi-finalist Q&A: Lisa Hall Staging & Design

Information from her grant application is available here. Read below for more, and if you have questions for our semi-finalists don't hesitate to ask them in the comments section.

Also, don't forget to cast your vote! YOUR vote will determine which entrepreneurs most deserve to be amongst the finalists.

How did you come up with the idea for your business?

I bought a condo in 2006 and invited my realtor to my open house. He saw how I transformed the small space and said "You should be a home stager." I didn't even know what that was but the thought always stayed with me. I love home decorating and think its very important that your job is your passion. When I lost my job last year, I decided to make a career shift and started the business.

What do you love most about running your own business?

I love that my time is my time. I work more hours than I did when I had an office job, but I love it so it doesn't seem like work. I love that if its a beautiful afternoon that its my decision to take a few hours to be outside and then work later in the evening. Essentially, I love being my own boss. I feel like my life is in my hands instead of someone else's hands.

What makes your business unique?

I really try to work with homeowners and their budgets. I offer various pricing levels to be able to work with various budget levels. In these hard times, it is really important for people to be able to sell their homes in such a down market. Its a very stressful time for many people. So I do my best to accommodate even the small budgets.

What are some of your top business-related accomplishments, or business lessons learned?

I think so far the best thing for me has been taking myself out of my comfort zone. I have had to do so many things that I was so nervous to do, but has led me to such professional growth. From giving presentations (I used to be SO nervous to speak in front of people) to making cold calls, these were things that were very hard for me to do, but have ultimately helped me grow professionally.

Also, I think its so important to believe in yourself even in down times. I have found that the work is cyclical. One month there may be no work and then the next month I am swamped. And in those down months, it is so important to stay strong and believe things will come through.

Why should the Idea Cafe regulars vote for you?

I lost my job during difficult economic times but took it as an opportunity to do something I had always wanted to do - own my own business. For anyone who has ever had that dream, a little support can make a huge difference.