Today we’d like to introduce you to Belencia Mayfield.
Hi Belencia, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
I have always been really creative, but my business honestly all started back in high school 2008 when I started making my own homecoming mum’s and it’s grown ever since. Friends would pay me to make homecoming mum’s and then I just started branching out from there. Once I got to college my business continued expanding to a lot of DIY projects, party/baby shower decor, and set-ups. After graduating from the University of Texas at Arlington I started adding soooo many more services to my business such as custom shirts, mugs, chocolate treats, just to name a few. Adding more services has gotten me where I am today, I offer over 50 different custom services from shirts, tumblers, glass sets, earrings, key chains, puzzles, necklaces, chocolate-covered strawberries, pretzels, Oreos, party favors and we recently launched a luxury picnic service.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Being an entrepreneur is FAR from smooth there is literally always something that will become an issue, so be prepared for it. I’ve had plenty of challenges that has made me second guess my skills a few times. One of my biggest challenges is consistent business some days you can be extremely busy and then go weeks without one sale. Also, I am self-taught in all the services I provide so sometimes it’s very overwhelming when no one you know can help you figure out why certain things aren’t working.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I specialize in all things custom. Literally any service I provide is customized specifically for that one customer. I would say in general I’m known for my creativity, when someone gives me an idea or theme, I normally exceed their expectations. My top services I’m known for are custom shirts, chocolate-covered strawberries, and sweets table setups! I’m proud of EVERYTHING I do because I’m self-taught so it’s so rewarding once I accomplish something new. Honestly probably the only thing that set me apart from other businesses is my customer service and my drive to be successful.
Do you have any advice for those looking to network or find a mentor?
Honestly, I’d love to have a mentor, someone I can relate to, or get some advice from. I haven’t come across anyone that is willing to help ya girl out. I have been told that I should mentor but I honestly would like to be a little more successful before I agree to mentoring. Networking is such a huge part of having a business, it’s literally a must. I’m still trying to find more ways to network but what has worked for me so far is pop-up shops around the DFW, joining different Facebook groups, and literally just getting out passing out business cards.
Contact Info:
- Email: laytees77@gmail.com
- Website: 903 343 1284
- Instagram: @laytees_customs
- Facebook: Lay’tees Customs
Image Credits
Lay’tees photography
