Small Spaces, Big Truths: Why Authenticity in Business and Branding Matters

Not long ago, I heard someone say they had “three studios across the UK.”

It sounded impressive — until they admitted it was actually one decent studio and two small bedrooms stacked with boxes and piles of ironing. 

And I couldn’t help but laugh… not at them, but because I totally understood the logic. We’ve all felt the pressure to make our business look bigger, slicker, and more polished than it really is. Especially in the early days, when you’re just trying to sound credible and be taken seriously.

But here’s the truth: pretending to be something you’re not doesn’t help your business. Being real does.

Why Authenticity Matters More Than Ever

These days, people don’t want to buy from faceless brands that try to mimic corporations. They want to support real people. Business owners who are passionate about what they do. Who show up. Who tell the truth — even if it’s a bit messy, small-scale, or unconventional.

When we stop trying to impress and start trying to connect, everything changes.

People can spot fluff a mile off. But they’ll trust you, recommend you, and keep coming back if they feel like they know who you really are — quirks, box bedrooms and all.

The Shift I Made in My Own Business

Once I let go of the idea that I had to “look” a certain way, my business became not only easier to run — but stronger overall.

Instead of trying to sound bigger, I leaned into what actually makes Found on a Curb great:

 - Personal Service

 - Pride in my craft

 - Clear Communication

 - A hands-on approach to every order

That level of care is something most big businesses can’t replicate. And it turns out, that’s exactly what many customers are looking for.

Why This Matters in Custom Printing & Embroidery

If there’s one industry where authenticity truly counts, it’s custom garment printing and embroidery.

People aren’t just buying a product — they’re trusting you with their brand, their team identity, their event merch, their vision. That’s personal. And it should be treated that way.

Here’s what I’ve found works best:

1. Don’t Just Print—Tell a Story

Whether it's printing for a local business or embroidery for a large corporate firm, each project means something to someone. That’s why I treat every job like it matters — because it does.

2. Be Clear About What You Do (and Don’t) Offer

Instead of pretending I can take on anything and everything, I’m honest about what I do well. And that transparency builds trust — people appreciate knowing exactly what they’re getting, and what I stand for.

3. Let People In on the Process

Customers love seeing how things are made. I often share behind-the-scenes content: machine threads getting tangled, orders being packed, or even the chaos of a Tuesday morning print run. It’s real — and people relate to that far more than polished perfection.

4. Serve the Right Audience

Because I’m upfront about how I work — and who I love working with — I attract the right kind of customers. The ones who appreciate a hands-on approach, value quality, and enjoy supporting a real, UK-based business.

So Here’s the Truth…

So yeah — maybe I don’t have three high-tech production hubs across the UK.
Maybe I’ve just got one lovely workshop, a solid work ethic, and a playlist that gets me through long print and embroidery days.

But what I do have is REAL.

And in a world where so many businesses are busy faking it, that’s actually a massive strength.

So if you’re a fellow business owner feeling like you need to pretend to be bigger or slicker — take this as your sign to stop.

Show up as you. Speak honestly. Share the behind-the-scenes. Celebrate the box bedrooms.

Because authenticity isn’t just a nice idea. It’s good business.

Have a great week!

Katie
Found on a Curb