Karen Ruhl's Page

What is your name?

Karen Ruhl

Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?

Yes

If you are in business, what is the name of your business?

Christian Home Based Business Forum and Lighthouse Creative Group

Where did you get your idea for your business or the business you'd like to start?

I had a background in broadcasting and marketing. I started my business over 18 years ago with the goal of helping small to mid-sized businesses compete in the marketplace. Christian Home Based Business Forum came out of a prayer two years ago and has been steadily building since, I launch this site on Sept. 30, with a seminar.

Where is (will) your business located? (City and State)

Tustin, CA

If you already have a website, what is the address for your business?

http://chbbf.org

How long have you been in business? (Or when do you plan to open?)

18 years

How many employees do you have, if any?

1-5

What is your annual revenue?

$100K-$250K

Describe your product or service, or the product you plan to introduce to the market.

Lighthouse Creative Group is a full service creative agency. We can help you develop your marketing collateral materials, create a web page, video and take your photograph just to name a few things! Check out our site at http://www.lighthousecreativegroup.com

Christian Home Based Business Forum is an online community for home based business owners where they can share experiences, find help, brainstorm and fellowship with other Christian business owners.

How did you (or plan to) fund your business startup?

Credit cards

What was (is) the biggest hurdle in getting your business off the ground?

I did not use any of the above to start my business. I had my computer and my feet and I started out by going door to door to businesses to find out what they needed. By the end of the first week, I had five new accounts and the rest is history.
*NOTE: You have to click one of the options for funding your business but I did not use credit cards.

What would you advise other women interested in starting a similar business?

To pray first, to evaluate their talents and what they have to offer another business person. To be honest and build a business on integrity.

What has been your biggest mistake?

Giving away too much of my time.

What has been your smartest move?

Operating my home-based business like a brick and mortar business. Having a business plan, goals and loving what I do.

Are you willing to answer questions from other women business owners about your business?

Yes

What is your email address?

karen@chbbf.org