The hardest years of my life were 2020 to 2023. A series of tragic events, including a near-fatal crash and the loss of many loved ones, led to some terrible decisions. In 2022 I found myself facing a judge in a courtroom and being sentenced to jail time, years of probation, and spending the rest of my life as a felon.

Sitting in my cell, I was ashamed that I, a girl who thought so highly of herself before, was sitting where I was. This was not going to be my future. It was time to be the person I always wanted to be.

I took advantage of my situation. I meditated daily and I wrote up several different business ideas. Twelve full notebooks and about 30 mini pens later, I had stacks of menus and blueprints scattered across my room. I got out early because of good behavior and went to stay at a rehab facility in Portland. During my time there, I made many connections that led me to Workforce Solutions, an organization that helps Mainers seek employment.

A wonderful staff member there, a woman named Sally, introduced me to many free resources to help me start my business, including New Ventures Maine. I signed up for the NVME Venturing Forth class that guided me through every single step I needed to take to officially start my small business. When I started the class in September, I had a mere idea of what I wanted my business to be. I learned more each week about operating, marketing, and branding and I connected with guest speakers of all kinds. My business idea became “Five Ferns Mobile Café,” and I am so proud of what I have created.

I now know exactly what I need to do to start my business and be successful. My brand and logo are complete, and all my ideas have been approved by the state. Once I’m approved by health inspectors, I can officially start building my mobile café cart and complete contracts with my business partner. My goal is to have operations functional by June of 2025. After taking this class I am completely confident that I have all the tools and capabilities to run it smoothly!

I am so excited for what’s to come.

My biggest joy throughout this journey was getting to know all of my amazing classmates and NVME teachers. I have made some incredible friendships and connections. It’s as if I gained another family. I am so grateful for them.

I would recommend this class to anyone trying to start a small business in Maine. Venturing Forth provides new business owners with all the free resources you need to be successful and they work with you from start to finish.

If I hadn’t found this class, I would probably still be at step one. This class has really given me the knowledge and confidence I needed in myself to start my business. I am so proud of myself for how far I’ve come.