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Scaling Heights: Julie Ellis on Turning Mabel’s Labels into an Eight-Figure Empire
Ever wonder how a simple idea can transform into a multi-million dollar business? Join us on She Is Unstoppable as host Deanna Hinsz explores the incredible journey of Julie Ellis, co-founder of Mabel’s Labels. From initial brainstorming in a basement to orchestrating an eight-figure sale to Avery Labels, Julie’s story is not just about business growth—it’s about breaking barriers and achieving the seemingly impossible. In this episode, Julie shares her unique insights on leadership, scaling strategies, and the power of persistence. Whether you’re a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned leader, this conversation is filled with actionable advice and inspiring takeaways that will motivate you to redefine success and chase your own big, gorgeous goals. Tune in to discover how you can turn your vision into a thriving reality!
Key Insights from the Episode
[00:01:18] From Basement to Empire
Julie Ellis discusses the humble beginnings of Mabel’s Labels, starting with the idea to replace masking tape and markers with personalized labels. Despite starting in a basement, Julie and her co-founders always had big dreams.
“We decided we were going to go for it, but it did take us about a year of research and testing to find the right equipment.”
[00:06:04] The Power of Strategic Planning
Julie emphasizes the importance of strategic planning and bringing in outside experts to help navigate the business landscape.
“We were always very strategic in setting goals, dividing responsibilities, and being accountable to each other.”
[00:10:16] The Journey to Selling the Business
Julie shares the moment Avery Labels called, leading to the sale of Mabel’s Labels nearly 13 years after its inception.
“Although we didn’t always say we’re building this to sell the business, we did agree on some things. And when Avery called, it was like the universe moved.”
[00:13:19] Building and Leading a Team
Julie talks about the importance of bringing the management team to the table and elevating leaders within the organization.
“We always tried to put some really smart people in the room with us and bring our management team to the table.”
[00:16:41] Overcoming Operational Challenges
Starting a direct-to-consumer e-commerce business in 2003 presented unique challenges, from setting up merchant accounts to building an online presence.
“Starting a direct-to-consumer e-commerce business in 2003 was not easy. We faced many operational challenges just to get up on our feet.”
[00:19:05] Scaling from Six to Eight Figures
Julie explains the differences between scaling from six to eight figures and the challenges at each stage.
“In some ways, eight figures was easier, although the inflection points of trouble were bigger and had more potential for disaster.”
[00:21:46] The Evolution of Leadership
As the business grew, Julie and her co-founders had to evolve their leadership styles to adapt to the changing needs of the company.
“Leadership has to continually evolve. It’s a constant process of growth and adaptation.”
[00:24:05] The Concept of Big, Gorgeous Goals
Julie discusses her book, Big Gorgeous Goals, and the idea of stepping into your magnificence by setting and achieving ambitious goals.
“One of the definitions in the dictionary for gorgeous is magnificence. So I think about it as stepping into your magnificence when you set big, gorgeous goals.”
Final Thoughts
Julie Ellis’s journey with Mabel’s Labels is a testament to the power of vision, strategic planning, and persistent effort. Her insights on leadership and scaling a business are invaluable for any entrepreneur looking to achieve significant growth. By focusing on strategic goals, bringing in outside expertise, and evolving leadership styles, you too can turn your vision into a thriving reality.
For more insights, follow Julie Ellis on her website at juliels.ca. Stay connected with us on Instagram at @deannahinsz and @wearesheiscollective.
Remember to subscribe, leave a review, and join us next week for more empowering stories and strategies. Keep striving, and stay unstoppable!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/julieellis/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejulieellis/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-ellis/
Website: www.julieellis.ca
In her early 30’s, Julie was no longer waking up with enthusiasm for the workday ahead. She knew she needed a change from her corporate career.
She dreamt of her own big, gorgeous goals, and with that clarity, she co-founded Mabel’s Labels – making personalized labels for all the stuff kids lose as they go out into the world.
The business grew wildly, and Julie became an award-winning entrepreneur, eventually selling the business to an industry giant.
At Mabel’s Labels, she learned growing a business to 8-figures was easier with a group of growth-minded women around her. Now, she helps other women get connected, solve problems and grow bigger businesses, reaching their own big gorgeous goals.
Julie’s book, Big Gorgeous Goals, is written for women entrepreneurs who want to step out of their small box and set world domination in their sights. In discussion with sixteen women entrepreneurs, Julie explores their stories and pairs them with how she built, grew, and sold Mabel’s Labels.
