From Side Hustle to Full Hustle: Victoria Stacey

We're hosting an entrepreneur panel discussion!

Meet Victoria, our speaker. 

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The majority of us have dreams of pursuing more than just a 9 to 5 job. We have that #GirlBoss potential, but some of us may be too scared to explore it. Others take the plunge and dive right in, leaving their 9 to 5 to pursue their own career goals; or find a happy medium and run a side hustle while still working their corporate jobs. Whatever the case is, we all have those moments of not knowing how to start. We look for motivation and inspiration from the journeys of other women, their road to success. For all the hard-working women out there who enjoy successful career stories, this post is for you.

Victoria Stacey is a founding member of the Young Women in Business Toronto chapter and our Partnerships Coordinator. She has been integral to our success as an organization.

Tell us about yourself, and what you do.

I am the owner and editor-in-chief of Florals & Teacups, a lifestyle brand that works online with brands to amplify and create awareness for their products and services through my blog platform, as well as community building through events such as crafting workshops. I also offer freelance social media, marketing & graphic design services.

How did you get where you are today?

I've been creating in the online space for as long as I can remember, and I've been creating things with my hands even before that. In University, I started a magazine called Passion8 Magazine that focused on young professionals exploring their passions. When I graduated, that died down, but my passion for writing and blogging was still very strong. That's why I started Florals & Teacups, where I focused on detailing my life's adventures. As I began to find my voice, I realized the topics I wanted to write about were DIY, Travel & Food. When I was approached to host a craft workshop in 2016, I jumped at the opportunity to explore crafting in an offline setting, and it took off from there.

What made you want to pursue these goals?

I enjoy creating in all forms, but my favourite is using my hands to make beautiful things. It wasn’t until I started my workshops that I realized I also loved collaborating and creating with other people too. By focusing on my workshops and expanding my blog, I collaborate and create every single day.

What obstacles did you face along the way?

The biggest obstacle so far has been money. It was what kept me from pursuing this for so long, and it's what keeps me wondering if I should go back to a full-time job. Self-doubt is also a big obstacle. I have a wonderful community who support me in many ways, but often find myself trapped in what others are doing on social media, or not doing. I get really down on myself when I feel like the people closest to me aren't supporting me, even though they really are.

What advice can you give to others who want to follow their dreams?

If you have a side hustle and you want to explore it full-time, my biggest advice is to get yourself somewhat financial secure, and just do it. It was by far the best decision I've ever made.

What is your favorite part of the hustle?

My favorite part is waking up every day excited to create something new.