Ally Michelle, founder of Bluum Digital, turned a side hustle into a thriving marketing agency, leaving her stable position at Google to pursue her vision. With a mission to empower small businesses and entrepreneurs, Ally shares how she overcame challenges, embraced risks, and built a company that levels the playing field in the digital marketing world.
1. Ally, what inspired you to start Bluum Digital, and how did it evolve into a full-time venture?
Bluum started in 2015 as a side hustle while I was working full-time. My initial goal was to pay off student loans, but as the business grew, I began to see its potential. I balanced late nights and weekends to build a solid client base, all while holding down my day job. After five years, I hit a pivotal moment. I knew I couldn’t keep juggling both commitments. Leaving my secure job at Google to focus on Bluum full-time was a leap of faith, but it’s been one of the most rewarding decisions I’ve ever made.
2. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced in building Bluum Digital?
Time management was a constant struggle. Balancing a demanding full-time job with Bluum’s growing needs required meticulous planning and often sacrificing personal time. Another significant challenge was overcoming imposter syndrome, particularly as a young woman working in male-dominated industries. I questioned my abilities but pushed through by seeking mentorship, networking, and focusing on delivering exceptional work. Those experiences taught me resilience and the importance of self-belief.
3. How do you stay motivated when faced with setbacks?
I keep a record of my accomplishments, both big and small, to remind myself of how far I’ve come. When challenges arise, I revisit this log to gain perspective and reignite my determination.
One particularly tough time was when a few major clients parted ways, leading to a sudden revenue loss. Instead of letting doubt take over, I reframed the situation as an opportunity to adapt and grow. I focused on our loyal client base and used the setback to develop new strategies for attracting and retaining clients. This mindset shift was key to moving forward.
4. What advice would you give to someone considering entrepreneurship?
Take the leap, but do so strategically. Have a clear vision, solid foundation, and realistic plan. Networking is crucial—connect with other entrepreneurs, mentors, and industry experts who can provide invaluable advice and support.
Patience is also vital. Building a business takes time, so don’t get discouraged by setbacks. Learn from your mistakes, adapt, and keep pushing forward. And most importantly, prioritize your mental health. Set boundaries, practice self-care, and seek help when you need it.
5. What has been a defining moment in your journey with Bluum Digital?
Leaving Google to focus on Bluum full-time was a defining moment for me. It was terrifying but exhilarating. It marked the moment I fully committed to my vision and took control of my future. It was a huge risk, but one that’s paid off immensely.
6. What’s your vision for Bluum Digital’s future?
I envision Bluum becoming a comprehensive marketing operations powerhouse. We aim to go beyond traditional marketing by offering end-to-end solutions that drive growth. From cutting-edge campaigns to optimizing marketing and sales operations, we’ll empower our clients to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape.
We also plan to support businesses expanding globally, offering insights, benchmarks, and strategic guidance. By staying at the forefront of emerging marketing channels, we’ll ensure our clients always have access to the latest innovations. Ultimately, we want to be the indispensable partner that frees up businesses to focus on their core operations while we handle the complexities of marketing.
7. How does Bluum Digital aim to make an impact on small businesses?
We’re deeply committed to leveling the playing field for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Many of these businesses are overlooked by traditional agencies or waste resources on ineffective DIY marketing. To address this, we recently launched a pilot program tailored specifically for small businesses.
Our goal is to provide affordable, high-quality marketing services that empower small businesses to thrive. We want to instill confidence and hope, showing entrepreneurs that success is attainable, no matter their starting point. Through our work, we aim to help these businesses unlock their potential and achieve their dreams.
Final Thoughts
Ally Michelle’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic risk-taking, and a clear vision. Her passion for empowering small businesses has turned Bluum Digital into more than a marketing agency—it’s a partner in success. To learn more about Ally’s work, visit bluumdigital.com.