Courtney Ebert, Owner of Caricatures by Courtney Inc.
Lives in Exeter Township
What motivated you to start your business in Greater Reading?
I am a fairly recent transplant from the Philly area. I met my now husband in 2019 and moved to his area (Reading) to be closer to him and his job during the pandemic. It only made sense to bring my business to Reading to continue to support my growing family.
I am a fairly recent transplant from the Philly area. I met my now husband in 2019 and moved to his area (Reading) to be closer to him and his job during the pandemic. It only made sense to bring my business to Reading to continue to support my growing family.
How has the local community contributed to the success of your business?
I have noticed that when connecting with other local business owners and community members, there is a genuine enthusiasm to learn about your business, support it, and even hire your services. In a smaller town, word of mouth spreads quickly, allowing my business to grow at an impressive rate.
I have noticed that when connecting with other local business owners and community members, there is a genuine enthusiasm to learn about your business, support it, and even hire your services. In a smaller town, word of mouth spreads quickly, allowing my business to grow at an impressive rate.
What’s been your biggest challenge as a business owner here, and how did you overcome it?
Relocating a business over 50 miles and having to start new can be a challenge. However, I’ve discovered that building connections with local businesses and actively participating in community events has been instrumental in overcoming the loss of former local clients.
Relocating a business over 50 miles and having to start new can be a challenge. However, I’ve discovered that building connections with local businesses and actively participating in community events has been instrumental in overcoming the loss of former local clients.
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in the area?
Embrace the charm of the small-town feel of the Reading area. The community here is warm and welcoming, eager to hear about your business ideas. People are genuinely interested in collaborating, as many have been in your position themselves.
Embrace the charm of the small-town feel of the Reading area. The community here is warm and welcoming, eager to hear about your business ideas. People are genuinely interested in collaborating, as many have been in your position themselves.
What’s your go-to place or activity in Greater Reading when you need to unwind?
A good friend of mine is a skilled massage therapist, and she runs a delightful studio on Penn Avenue—West Reading Posture and Mobility Studio. Taking an hour to unwind in a peaceful, dimly lit room is absolutely essential every now and then. After all, massages are a must when I sometimes find myself drawing for up to 9 hours straight.
A good friend of mine is a skilled massage therapist, and she runs a delightful studio on Penn Avenue—West Reading Posture and Mobility Studio. Taking an hour to unwind in a peaceful, dimly lit room is absolutely essential every now and then. After all, massages are a must when I sometimes find myself drawing for up to 9 hours straight.
