Episode 14

14: Lessons From My First Year In Business: What I Wish I Knew

Published on: 8th August, 2024

In this episode of the Creative On The Grind Podcast, DeAndra Jalisa reflects on the invaluable lessons she learned during her first year of running a business. Whether you’re just starting out or are a few years into your entrepreneurial journey, this episode offers insights that are sure to resonate.

Key Points Covered:

The Importance of Systems and Structure:

  • DeAndra shares how implementing effective systems transformed her business. Initially using Excel and PayPal for invoicing led to chaos. Switching to HoneyBook, a comprehensive CRM system, streamlined her operations, improved client payments, and doubled her revenue within six months.

Managing Finances Wisely:

  • She discusses the pitfalls of unnecessary spending on office supplies and equipment. DeAndra advises prioritizing essential tools over luxury items and emphasizes creating a budget, tracking expenses, and saving for taxes to avoid financial pitfalls.

Productivity and Time Management:

  • DeAndra reveals her strategy for improving productivity by timing tasks and measuring travel times between events. She stresses the importance of knowing how long each project takes and continuously refining efficiency while maintaining high-quality results.

Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by HoneyBook, the all-in-one business management platform designed to streamline client communication, project management, and invoicing. Special offer for listeners: Get 50% off your first year at

share.honeybook.com/DeAndraJalisa

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About the Podcast

Creative On The Grind Podcast
Welcome to 'Creative On The Grind With DeAndra Jalisa,' your go-to podcast for creative entrepreneurs looking to conquer the complexities of entrepreneurship, navigate life's challenges, and cultivate the right mindset for success. Join host DeAndra Jalisa, an experienced creative entrepreneur, as she shares her personal experiences and expertise, helping you level up and become your own boss. Tune in for actionable insights, inspirational stories, and practical advice from industry experts, all aimed at unlocking your full creative potential. Join us on this journey to thrive in the world of creative entrepreneurship and make your dreams a reality.

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About your host

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DeAndra Crismon


DeAndra Jalisa Crismon is the founder of Party Shop Avenue. A bespoke balloon design company located in Los Angeles, California. DeAndra has been in the event industry for almost 10 years. She was a wedding planner and event designer who wanted to create something unique for the industry.

Which gave birth to Party Shop Avenue in 2017, she started posting her beautiful creations and her designs started to spread the internet like wildfire.

DeAndra has been able to work with some notable brands and influencers throughout her career. Clients like, Guess, Boohoo, Fabletics, Netflix, Fashion Nova, Mastros Franchise, Ispy, Colourpop, Sivan Ayla, Jessi Malay, Shayla Mitchell, Draymond Green, and many more. DeAndra had one of the biggest jobs of her career back in 2018 when she was flown out to New York to showcase her designs with Ipsy for Ispy Creator Day. Not to mention her designs were featured on Good Morning America the same week.

Now DeAndra is still persevering in the industry but is now mentoring aspiring creatives on how to grow successful creative businesses.