Laurie Wall, Women of Achievement: Network, Negotiate, Dream
Women definitely face challenges in business that men do not, according to Laurie Wall, but the WALLNUTS Expressive Catering owner does not dwell negatively on any challenges. She simply overcomes them. “I’ve never really thought too much about it — I just focus,” she says. “My father taught me to be a strong woman and he still plays a large part in the strength of who I am.”
Key to Wall’s business success is her ability to negotiate for what she wants and needs. She honed this skill largely out of necessity. The local caterer is legally deaf. She reads lips. “In a sense, being hearing impaired did help with negotiating, because I had to make direct contact. I couldn’t just talk on the phone. It’s better to negotiate in person. It’s a lot easier to get what you want when you’re in front of the person and talking. For me, I had no choice but to go and talk with people face to face.”
Wall believes networking and communicating ideas with like-minded entrepreneurs helps establish oneself in business. She recommends women join groups such as the Regina Women’s Network and Women Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan to discuss common challenges and solutions. “Find ambitious women who aren’t even necessarily in the same field as you, but who have the entrepreneurial spirit. Get together and dream. Talk about your dreams. It needn’t even be about what you’re doing at the moment. But talk about your dreams with someone you can count on to listen.”
After 15 years in business, Wall certainly can attest to the challenges of owning a business. However, she notes, the success that can follow hard work is rewarding. She encourages other business-minded women to take the leap to entrepreneurship. “Don’t overanalyze and think yourself out of something you really envision for your future. If all else fails, you tried your best and learned a lot. If you’ve got the spirit, you can’t go wrong.”
WALLNUTS Expressive Catering
232-A College Ave. East
Regina
306.543.9255
Photos Picturesk Media
