Rachel Pradhan's Page

What is your name?

Rachel Pradhan

Are you currently heading a woman-owned business?

Yes

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

Blaze Interactive

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

My husband and I started our web design and development company while we were both finishing design school. Since we've been open, we have expanded our services to include all internet marketing tools: eNewsletters, blogs, online video, podcasting, custom and template websites.

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

Dana Point, CA

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

http://www.blazeinteractive.com

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

We are in our 3rd year being open - although we've been building websites freelance since the late 90s.

How many employees do you have, if any?

1-5

What is your annual revenue?

I choose not to disclose

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

We are an Internet Marketing company, providing: eNewsletters, blogs, online video, podcasting, custom and template websites.

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

personal savings, friends and family

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

Learning what works on the Internet - it took us a while, but now I would consider myself an 'expert'.

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

Don't just start a web design company just because you know HTML. There's so much more to it than that. First, you have to understand the basic principles of design and usability; second, you have to understand internet marketing so that you can help your clients grow their business.

What has been your biggest mistake?

Agreeing to build a Flash based website for a small business - I don't recommend Flash because of it's lack of Search Engine friendliness. Although the site is beautiful, it's difficult to find.

What has been your smartest move?

Sending eNewsletters weekly.

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

Yes

What is your email address?

rachel@blazeinteractive.com