Daily Inspiration: Meet Lindsey McGlone

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lindsey McGlone. 

Hi Lindsey, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
The story of Elle A. Design all stems back to my love for art and making things with my hands from a very young age. I’ve always loved fine art, and when it came time for me to chose a career path, I decided that I wanted to go to school for Graphic Design. Having been raised in a family full of entrepreneurs, I always knew in the back of my mind that I would eventually like to work for myself and build a business from the ground up – and that’s just what I did. I unofficially started Elle A. Design during my senior year of college (2008) while taking on freelance jobs, which eventually turned into a full-time+ career. Over the years, I have added 3 additional designers to my team and have taken on multiple interns hoping to solidify their love for design. In 2016 I purchased my first brick-and-mortar studio space in West Liberty, Ohio. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Overall, I would say that my journey has been a pretty smooth road with a few bumps in the way. Of course, there will always be blood, sweat, and tears along the way – but when you follow your heart, have ambition, and trust your gut, it makes things a little easier. Also, when you surround yourself with family, friends, and coworkers who will always have your back, you are setting yourself up for success. 

Some of the struggles I have encountered along the way are first and foremost being able to separate work and home life. Over the years, the two have blended together all too often. Once having my son, I made a conscious decision to buy a brick-and-mortar building in our hometown to help divide the two. 

Another struggle I’ve had to overcome is wearing all the hats as a business owner. Along the way, I’ve been able to slowly delegate and let loose on the reigns a little, but there are so many responsibilities that only you, as the business owner, can take control of. It is a struggle, but one that I take to heart. If we weren’t successful, I wouldn’t have to worry about as many of the responsibilities – but I am so thankful for the beautiful crazy busy schedule we have. 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Here at Elle A. Design, we are creatives. We are designers, photographers, videographers, copywriters, print designers, coordinators of all things, problem solvers. 

I am most proud of our team for our balance. We are able to discuss projects with clients and be on the far creative side of the spectrum while still being able to dial projects in, hit timelines and budgets, and deliver amazing solutions. 

We LISTEN. We LEARN. We DREAM with our clients. Then we help tell their STORIES. 

Networking and finding a mentor can have such a positive impact on one’s life and career. Any advice?
I am a firm believer in job shadowing at the high school age and also interning at the college level. Two of my three designers started as interns and ended up at full-time employees at Elle A. Design. I have started working with my local Chamber of Commerce to hopefully help create a program to guide students toward the right career and environments for them. 

My advice to students – don’t be shy. Reach out to businesses in industries you are interested in early! You never know when a call or email could turn into a real-life job that you love… 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.elleadesign.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elleadesignco/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elleadesignco