Amanda Broyles Freelance Art

Illinois Local business of the year award. Created by Amanda Broyles Freelance Art

I think I found out about Illinois through a Facebook post tagging Emily Lewis (Three Twigs Family). 

I wanted to start a business but wasn’t exactly sure where to start. I knew that I needed a local online presence as well as supportive peers in my same situation.

Also, I figured Emily Lewis was a good person to follow!

My experience of Illinois Local has been incredible! Everything I’ve put in, I’ve gotten back, and then some. Feels good to be in a community of like-minded, hard-working individuals. We’re all rooting for each other, it doesn’t ever feel like competition, and I think that’s really inspiring. 

My business has benefited from exposure for sure. I’ve met and now created for several local businesses. Not to mention the Illinois Local inaugural awards I was so proud to paint for. I think it showcases how important small businesses are in general, which can benefit all of Illinois. It also produces a lot of motivation for me to see everyone grow and building each other up.