HATTIESBURG, Miss. (WDAM) – There’s a lot that goes into starting a business, large or small.

Experienced business owners in the Hub City shared some wisdom and knowledge at a networking event hosted by the Delta Sigma Theta fraternity.

“Tonight we have 27 vendors coming out to showcase their products, services and items and attract more attention,” said sorority member Kecia Jones.

Jennifer James opened Angel Rose Aesthetic & Wellness in 2020.

The clinic is now her full-time job after quitting her 9-to-5 job in 2022.

“When there was a need to be present at my job full-time to promote my business, that’s when I stepped away,” James said. “I’ve been in the business full-time for two years and it’s growing every month.”

James said the Hattiesburg community has shown great love for the clinic over the past four years.

But she wants aspiring businessmen and women to understand that keeping your doors open isn’t as easy as it seems.

“We need to give them the framework to get started and know that a little bit goes a long way,” James said. “So, I want to make sure you take those baby steps and plan everything out.”

Rita Mitchell of the USM Small Business Development Center believes Hattiesburg is a hot spot for creatives.

Whether it’s a t-shirt or a hat, there seems to be room for everyone to improve.

“Anyone can have a side hustle,” Mitchell said. “Anyone can start doing this: as a child, at college age.”

Mitchell said it’s all about finding your niche.

Once you do this, the center is there to help transform it from thought to reality.

“Schedule your consultation, ask to become a client, check out our site,” Mitchell said. “We have a lot of resources there.”

You can access information about these resources by clicking. HERE.

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