JOANNA decided to open an ecommerce website in 1999. Knowing she wanted to be able to do updates herself she made a deal with her website designer to show her how it was done while he made it for her. Once it was complete and Joanna began doing the updates herself she found it to be much more to her liking than running an ecommerce site. To get some initial experience she first began making websites for friends and then for non-profits and took many computer classes. As her proficiency grew and she started getting customers a new business was born; Imagine Website Designs. Shortly thereafter she was hired to be the Art Director on the (now retired) Topanga Magazine. It was a great learning experience and added an understanding of print production to her repertoire.

What do you love most about Topanga?

The feeling I get when turning onto the Canyon road when returning from town. Watching the fog roll in below us. The fragrance of the Canyon on a fresh spring morning. The community that is Topanga, filled with eclectic and heartful spirits.

What inspired your business?

Besides enjoying the process of website design… I actually worked for that guy that created my first website and was appalled at the way he treated his customers. I knew I could do better and have made a point ever since to be sure customer service was my priority.

What’s next?

Who knows? That is one thing about this field of work, it grows and changes and new rules come out and there is always something new to learn. Mixed in with that, taking care of my Sweetheart, my Dad and our new rescue kitties, travel to the South Pacific, home improvements…

Best piece of business advice?

Actually GO to the Chamber mixers and take the time to get to know this wonderful business community. Helping each other, even those in your same line of business, will only help to improve your own.

Best thing about the Topanga Chamber?

The support, both intellectually and emotionally. I remember one morning mixer where one of the members had an accident on the way in and was quite tramatized. The whole mixer turned into a support group for her and we still got the business at hand done. These people are my friends and I am grateful for each one!

KIMBERLIE has more than 25 years experience as a writer and editor. She is the founder and principal of QuarterMoon Media, providing content creation, marketing, and PR for start ups and small businesses. Kimberlie has been a proud Chamber member since December 2011 and serves on its Board of Directors.

What do you love most about Topanga?

Shopping at Topanga Home Grown, fire trails, peace and quiet, art studio tours, friendly neighbors, and the horses I can see from my front porch.

What inspired your business?

After two years of working for a truly crazy boss, I decided to hang my own shingle and be my own crazy boss. The quarter moon is a symbol of rebirth and transformation, so I thought it was a fitting name for my new venture. My clients are so varied that I learn something new and interesting every day.

What’s next?

Expanding my client list, traveling, learning how to salsa, training for a marathon, and writing another book.

Best piece of business advice?

My first job out of college was as a copywriter at a Chicago ad agency. My mentor told me there are three things everybody looks at whenever they open a business letter: Their name (is it spelled right?); the first line; and the postscript. To this day, I add a P.S. to almost every letter I send out.

Best thing about the Topanga Chamber?

Meeting all sorts of people with very different backgrounds, careers, and interests. There’s a lot of hugging too, and that’s always a good thing.