Introducing the First-Ever piddix Intern

I'm thrilled to officially introduce you to Lara Schmidt of Fraserhead. Lara is the first-ever piddix intern (unless you count Declan and his help at the post office) and so far she's doing an amazing job. I asked Lara to answer four questions about herself to help you all get to know her a bit better.

1. Please introduce yourself.
My name is Lara Schmidt. I’m not really able to answer the question “What do you do,” and honestly, I hope it stays that way. In brief, I am a dancer, an English and French major, an employee at a really fabulous non-profit, a thrifter, a cook, a writer, a traveler, and of course the list could go on and on. I was raised in Central Washington and moved to Portland with my partner, Joe, 2 years ago. We love it here. I’m sure adventures will take us elsewhere, but for the moment, we enjoy the city, our dog Charlie, and making messes in our small apartment.2. What do you hope to gain from this internship?
I’m hoping to learn a lot by osmosis, but if I have to get specific:

• How to write/conceive a business plan
• Strategies for developing a business, product or service
• Sourcing materials
• Pricing
• Maintaining websites, blogs, and social media in the art/design/craft world
• Investing in your business
• Business accounting -- managing expenses and revenue

3. Why art?
I grew up a very dedicated, classically trained ballet dancer. I was good at dancing. When my career came to a sudden halt, I fell back on the other thing people told me I was good at: Writing. So I became an English Major. Recently, a little voice inside of me as been cheering, “Do something you think you’re bad at,” so here I am. I’ve always been intimidated by art and entrepreneurship. Thus, I figured this was a good place to start.
4. Where do you want your business to be in six months? In three years?
In six months I would like to have a clear view of the next few years, a business plan, a path to follow. I want my business to be earning revenue—preferably enough to pay the bills. Dream big, right? In three years I want my business to support me. Financially and emotionally. I either want to be in a business I love, or I want my business to allow me to do the things I love. Both would be great. We’ll see.