We are delighted to introduce you to one of our Women’s Business School graduates Katrina Buttigieg, founder of Macedon Ranges Writers
When did you start your business?
I started my copywriting business Macedon Ranges Writers in May 2018, while I was still teaching part time at a local primary school, and transitioned to working solely for my business from the beginning of 2019. I also started a local tourism blog, Macedon Ranges Mumma, in July of that year, which shares ideas of family fun in the area and champions supporting local.
What was the inspiration behind starting this business?
My inspiration to start my copywriting business was brewing, unknowingly to my conscious self, over the previous years but was basically driven by my lifelong passion to publish a novel and write as my day job. I was also keen to choose my own hours to prioritise my health and quality time with my family.
What are you most excited about in your business?
I am genuinely excited about assisting people with their words to help them achieve their goals, and sharing good news stories. I also get a thrill out of writing effective, clear content whilst meeting a specific word count. I am officially a word nerd.
I love that Macedon Ranges Mumma connects locals, assists families in finding affordable activities and supports businesses in the area.
What has been the most challenging thing about starting your business?
The most challenging thing was that I had zero idea about running a business and attempted to learn it all as I went along.
What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a business?
I would advise other women to start their business concurrently with undertaking the Women’s Business School Program because it covers all the basics and much more. There are weekly Power Circles where you can chat to a range of women in the course and ask advice from professionals, as well as the Facebook group where you can ask questions anytime in a safe, non-judgemental space.
Why did you choose to do the Women’s Business School Programs?
I chose to do the Women’s Business School Program because I wanted to fill the gaps in my knowledge of business and I liked that it was targeted towards women and mums. Peace and Katy, the mentors, speakers and other women in the course just ‘got it’. I looked forward to the weekly sessions and learning each module. The course was also designed to be flexible so that you can undertake it whilst running a business and being a mum.
What did you enjoy the most about being part of the program?
As much as I loved the content and learning, I honestly loved the Power Circles the most. In these we met the other women taking the course who were starting up or running business from all corners of Australia, and across the world. I made some amazing friends and look forward to meeting them in person in the future.
What surprised you most about the program?
I was surprised how easy it was to connect with people and form friendships online. With all that was going on, facilitating remote learning and lockdowns, it was lovely to have this routine and the opportunity to connect with other mums, many experiencing the same obstacles.
Which module was the most helpful and why?
The most helpful module was Creating A Life You Love. This really made me consider what I wanted in my life, what I wanted to do less of, and what I could delegate. It made me make many changes to my business that have allowed me to be more efficient and profitable.
How did the program help you in your business?
The program made me consider many elements of my business that I had not thought of before and how I could improve them. I still have plenty to do but I know I can go back over what I learnt last year and start to implement the different parts of the program that I haven’t already.
What has been the best thing about starting your own business?
The best thing about starting your own business is creating a life you love! I love being able to write every day, having flexibility around whatever is happening in my family’s life at the time, and choosing my hours.
Would you recommend the Women’s Business School to other women starting a business? Why?
I would absolutely recommend the Women’s Business School to other women starting a business because it is tailored specifically to women and their courses will assist you with everything you need to know. It also gifts you an amazing community of like-minded women to get to know, support, and champion.
What’s happening next in your business?
This year I am implementing what I have learned through the Women’s Business School so that I am able to assist more clients more efficiently and effectively. I have taken on proof readers to assist in quicker turnaround times and am redefining my work routine so that I can work smarter, not harder.
What are your big plans for the future?
Alongside my copywriting work, I am looking forward to submitting more articles for print publications, publishing my coming-of-age novel and completing a creative non-fiction book designed to unite and assist women all over the world.
PS Scholarship applications for The Women’s Business School 2022 programs are now open for a limited time. Apply today!