Today we’d like to introduce you to Gina Baker.
Hi Gina, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
During Covid, I wanted to paint my laundry room and now I own a construction company!
During Covid, I spent a lot of time renovating my own house. Lots of time, nothing to do, and an old house in need of repairs. I enjoyed the process so much that I moved on from my kitchen to my bathroom and then a second bathroom.
I started working for a friend on a renovation project to help her get ready to sell her home. After that, I went into a solo business, and then an ill fated partnership.
Once the partnership fell apart, I decided to go after a long held dream. An all woman crew that offers renovation services, and empowers homeowners to learn and do as much as they are comfortable with.
A very good friend of mine brought another woman into my life and the three of us said let’s go! The female crew has been so well received by our community that we only had a small amount of downtime since we started and are booked several months in advance.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The business world has had unexpected challenges. While the business hit the ground running, this is the first time I have ever owned a successful business.
We have spent a lot of time correcting work done in the previous partnership and working through a learning curve in appropriately bidding jobs while still being committed to being affordable.
There have also been challenges while we learn each other’s working and communication styles while being committed to open communication and learning new skills along the way.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
We do home repairs and renovations. My crew members are so incredibly capable. We do a little of everything. Foundations, siding, fencing, flooring, drywall, tile, etc. There is so little these women can’t do and they impress me every day.
People know us because we are the only female owned and operated crew in our city.
I am most proud that we have a stellar reputation. People go out of their way to look at our work in other people’s homes. We transform spaces into comfortable and beautiful places to be. My favorite thing is when we pack out and we see homeowners peek into their new room while apologizing for being in the way!
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
I don’t have a lot of advice about this. I posted on Facebook to see if this idea was something that would be sustainable. There was such a reception to it, that I invited other women to post if they had a trade that would do well in conjunction with my idea. A roofer reached out and she has been so great. She’s given advice, lifted us up, recommended us, and been available for me to bounce ideas off when I’m unsure.
My advice would be, find a few people you trust. Those who want to see you succeed. Those are the people who will give their best advice. When you get that advice, research everything. Then go back to the drawing table with new ideas and ask for more input.
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