I thought today I’d share a photo of the sign I have on my house for my studio! My brother-in-law made it for me as a birthday gift (my husband gave him the idea). The lettering is just the right size for the window and can be seen well from the road, since our home sits pretty close to the road. It looks very professional, and we’ve already had a few of the neighbors notice it. 🙂
Before putting a business sign outside my home, I had to get a “Home Occupation Permit” from the city. I’m sure it varies from city to city, but my permit cost $25 (I think it’s per year – or maybe longer) and it allows me to put up one sign, no larger than 12 inches by 12 inches. I suppose that if you live in a rural area, there might not be any stipulations regarding running a business in your home or putting up a business sign — but it doesn’t hurt to check. Most cities probably do. Having this Home Occupation Permit gives me peace of mind! Should a neighbor ever complain about my business for some reason (unlikely to happen, but always possible), the city would not be able to easily shut me down since I am running my business legally.
I still have only a handfull of students so far – but it’s a start. Compared to my busy schedule as a graduate student last year, my current schedule feels almost like I have nothing to do! Not that I’m complaining — I have been able to pursue hobbies that I haven’t had time to pursue since high school / early college. This means I’ve been crocheting preemie hats for a good cause, sewing (my mom gave each of us daughters an antique Singer sewing machine), and making things to sell in my Etsy shop (MusicallyMade.etsy.com). So, I’ve been keeping myself busy.
I recently was asked to come speak for a couple of piano teachers associations (local chapters of MTNA) back in Michigan. I’m so excited about the opportunity! I decided to put together a presentation about marketing, technology, and other changing trends that piano teachers should be aware of in order to be relevant to today’s generations of students and their parents. My presentations are both in March, and I’m sure I’ll be blogging more about it then.
Anyway – I just thought I would share a bit of what has been happening in my neck of the woods! I hope all is well with all of you.
Hi Joy! Just wanted to say how adorable your house is! I’d want to come for piano lessons here! I’m sure you’ll fill-up quickly as the year goes on 🙂
Thanks, Andrea!! 🙂
very nice sign!
Looks great Joy! That is something I’m trying to get done at the moment too.
This is such a great idea! I’m super-excited to watch your studio grow! I spent the last year building up my studio after moving to a new city, too. It’s been an interesting ride…. somethings have been very frustrating, but overall it’s been extremely rewarding. I’m finally starting to feel “established” here since I’ve hit the one-year mark. I hope you can enjoy this time and make the most of it! LOVE the sign!
Thanks so much, Stacey! It is indeed quite a ride to get established as a new piano teacher in the area. 🙂 Thanks for your comment!