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Creative Self-Employment
Bridgette Johnson is the owner of CreativelyIn-vented LLC located in Louisville, Kentucky. Bridgette is a former life-long educator with Jefferson County Public Schools and is now a children’s book author, educator, artist, and business entrepreneur. Her new company, Creatively Invented, helps children to become their best selves through educational seminars, games, activities, books, songs and more.
When and why did you join the NASE?
I joined in July of 2021 if I remember correctly. When I saw all the things the organization offered, I couldn’t resist and I joined right away!
What inspired you to enter the field you are in?
I was a stay-at-home mom and I wanted to get back into the workforce, but I had 5 children and childcare was expensive. My sister-in-law suggested I become a substitute teacher, explaining that I could have the same hours as the kids and still be home to do all my other duties. I thought it was a good idea and so I took her up on it. I ended up being a preferred substitute for 8 years and my principal talked me into going back to college at the age of 45. I am presently working on my master’s degree in Montessori Education.
When and why did you start your business?
I started my business to address challenging behaviors and lack of focus in the classroom. Creatively Invented empowers parents and teachers to effectively enhance children’s dynamic level. We also promote collaboration with peers, teachers, and families through a multi-cultural framework. Energizing children by empowering them to use curiosity and their imagination to rediscover learning in a new fun way continues to invigorate me daily.
How do you market your business?
I market the business primarily through social media. However, I also get new business through word-of-mouth, google books, childcare care centers and my website.
What challenges have you faced in your business?
The biggest challenge has been finding that support system, a team to surround myself with to handle all the operations of running a business. I continue to learn and strive to run the business like a well-oiled machine. I am also looking for investors and grants so that I can bring to fruition my dream of expanding Creatively Invented to even more teachers, families and children by opening my own center for face-to-face learning.
What’s your schedule like, what’s a typical day for you?
I start the day with prayer realizing that without God I can do nothing. Next, I get dressed for success and proceed to my home office to convene with my virtual assistants. Giving instructions on what needs to be done for the day. I also will spend some time networking and getting my services and products promoted locally in Louisville as well as across the state of Kentucky and sometimes even nationally. Some days I spend time exploring and creating new products and services. I usually try to be finished by 4:30pm but sometimes I will also put in some nighttime hours as well.
What’s the best thing about being self-employed?
The best part about being self-employed is the freedom to be creative without any restraints and setting my own hours. I also love creating opportunities for others.
What’s the best compliment you’ve ever received from a client?
The best compliments are always the ones that involve children. When someone tells me that I am so creative in helping children and that they will never forget me, it brings me true joy.
What’s the most important piece of advice you would give to someone starting their own business?
The best advice I would give someone newly self-employed is to get a mentor. They will save you time and money and keep you from making costly mistakes by sharing their experience and guiding you.
Which NASE member benefit is most important to you?
I love almost everything from the weekly videos to the discounts on products and services. I love this company and I am spreading the word to any new business owner I come across. Thank you for your services and for featuring me in this member profile.