As a Pinterest Manager and small business owner, 2024 has been quite a year for me! From refining my business systems to investing in my health and well-being, I’ve realized that sometimes the best investments aren’t the ones that give immediate returns—they’re the ones that allow you to grow, recharge, and evolve, just like Pinterest. In this post, I’m sharing the key investments that have had the biggest impact on both my personal life and business this year.
1. Rebranding and Website transformation: The best investment for my business all year
This was one of my biggest investments in 2024—and honestly, it was long overdue. My website and branding never quite felt like me. Shout out to 2021 Amy on Canva. It was functional, yes, but I never truly felt seen in my own online space. After a complete redesign from Amber at Maevan Marketing, everything changed. I now feel like my website shows up for me in the way I want it to. It’s not just a place for clients to land and get basic information; it now feels like a true reflection of who I am and what my business stands for. I’m more confident in my online presence, and I feel proud every time I share my website with a potential client. I am so grateful for my connection with Amber this entire year, she is a master at what she does. As an SEO expert, and brand designer, she is the total package.
2. Streamlining My Workflow: The Power of HoneyBook
While revamping my website was essential for creating a polished online presence, I knew streamlining my workflow was just as important. That’s where HoneyBook came in. I had been using it for a while, but I realized there was so much more it could do for me. I had a system, yes, but it wasn’t optimized. This year, I took the time to invest in Summer from Streamful to fully set up and customize my HoneyBook account, and the results have already been amazing. Not only does it look fantastic and represent my new branding, but the streamlined client experience—from inquiry to booking—has saved me hours each week. Plus, with automated emails in my voice, I can stay connected to clients in a personal way without so much manual work. This investment is something I wish I had only done sooner! Thank you so much Summer!
3. Prioritizing My Health: Why a Sauna & Walking Pad Were Game-Changers
Our health is one of our greatest assets—something I was reminded of last year when I had to step back from my business due to health issues. Since then, I’ve become much more mindful of how physical and mental wellness impacts my ability to show up in my work. This year, I invested in a sauna and a walking pad—two things that have dramatically improved my routine. The sauna has been an incredible way to relax, recharge, and detox, while the walking pad has helped me stay active without disrupting my workday. I can’t lie, the walking pad lay dormant for a few months staring at me to use it again, as business owners we can be sitting at our desk for far too long.. Getting those steps in has really helped me feel more active despite being tied to my computer.
4. Rediscovering Movement: How Kara Duval Pilates Revived My Love for Exercise
Sometimes, the best investments are the things that reignite a passion you thought you lost. For me, that was Kara Duval Pilates. Her platform Range has been such a blessing this year. I’ve fallen back in love with movement again, and it’s had such a massive positive impact on both my physical and mental well-being. Her classes are not just about exercise—they’ve become a way for me to reconnect with my body and feel empowered. As a former dancer, Jitterbug classes are my personal fave but Kara’s approach to movement has me even enjoying a cardio class. My favourite Kara quote: “your movement may look like mine, or it may look nothing like mine, that’s okay…no one actually gives a beep what you look like.” If you're looking for a new way to move and feel stronger, I can’t recommend Kara’s platform enough.
5. Small Joys: How A Simple Candle Changed My Work Environment
On a different note, one of my favorite small investments this year has been a small but beautiful candle collection from Candlefish. These small but mighty candles bring me such joy when sitting at my desk and add warmth to my space, and they’ve quickly become an essential part of my workday. Cliff and I had so much fun attending their candle-making workshop a few months ago in downtown Charleston. It has been one of our favourite Charleston experiences yet. If you’re in Charleston, I highly recommend checking it out. It’s a fun, creative way to unwind and create something personal—and of course, it’s a wonderful way to add some extra joy to your space! My personal recommendations are number 1 and number 31!
6. Building Meaningful Connections: Why Relationships Matter More Than Ever
One of the most rewarding aspects of 2024 has been the amazing relationships I’ve built. Networking has always been important to me, but this year, I really focused on cultivating meaningful connections. Not every person you meet will be the perfect fit, and that’s okay. I love the reminder I heard on I’m a Celeb recently: "If you were everyone’s cuppa tea, you’d be a mug." Not every connection needs to be a business partnership. What matters is building genuine relationships with people who align with your values and vision. I’m excited for all the new people yet to meet in 2025.
7. The Power of Face-to-Face: Why In-Person Networking Is Still Essential
While online connections are valuable, there’s something irreplaceable about face-to-face interactions. This year, I made a point to attend more in-person networking events. These events allowed me to deepen relationships and learn from other business owners in a way that virtual meetings just can’t replicate. If you’re a business owner and haven’t attended any in-person events recently, I highly recommend it. There’s so much power in being in the same room with like-minded people.
8. Growing Sunshine: The Unexpected Benefits of Gardening for My Health
One of my favourite investments this year has been in my garden. As a beginner gardener, I’ve loved these small pockets of time outside and being able to actually grow my own food. I recently saw a post that said, “Eat the sunshine,” and it really struck me. Simple but powerful, right? The food we grow thrives on sunshine—and so do we. Growing my own food has not only made me more mindful of what I’m eating, but it actually makes you feel good! You can taste and feel the difference. Here’s to growing more and eating more sunshine in 2025!
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for 2025?
When I think about my plans for 2025, one word comes to mind: less. This year, I invested in many things that have proven to be valuable, but I’ve also realized that I don’t need to keep spending money on things I no longer need. As a business owner, it’s crucial to regularly review your subscriptions and expenses, and this year I am making it a point to cut back where I can, both in time and money. In 2025, I’m looking forward to scaling back on some things while continuing to focus on what truly moves the needle in my life and business.
What About You?
As I look back on the best investments I’ve made this year, I’m curious—what were your best investments in 2024? What things have made the biggest impact on your business or personal life? And what do you have planned for 2025?
I’d love to hear about the investments that made the biggest difference for you. Whether it was a business tool, a personal habit, or something unexpected, let’s share and learn from one another’s experiences.
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