We had the good fortune of connecting with Lauren Pittman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Lauren, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always known I would own my own business I just didn’t know when or what it would be. I took some time to really think about my skills and passions. That’s where cleaning and organizing came in. Im good at it, I love doing it and there’s always a market for it. However, in the cleaning industry there’s not much awareness about the harsh chemicals in everyday cleaning products. I am an advocate for cruelty free, eco friendly and non toxic products in my own life. I decided my purpose as a business owner was not only to leave my clients with a refreshed and renewed space but also to educate and help them create a safe space.
Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My entire life has been about taking risk. When I graduated and moved on my own at 17 I learned quickly that I was going to have to work really hard for anything I wanted in life. With the help of my sister, I started college and worked in the restaurant industry to pay for it. I was struggling with my mental health and I was tired of the cycle of waking up without a purpose. At 19 I made a decision to take a risk. I packed up what I could fit in my car and drove to Colorado with $100 to my name to live without telling anyone. I found a job as a jewelry sales person and within a month I was promoted to a store manager position and within several months I was able to get my own place. After living there for almost a year I knew I had outgrown the small town because I couldn’t move up and make more money or grow my skills any longer. At 20 I was ready to move back home and live in the big city of Dallas. I took another risk and got a job as a cold caller for an insurance company. I didn’t make enough to afford my own place so I lived with family and within a month I got my license as an insurance sales agent. I could finally afford my own studio apartment in Uptown. For the past five years I have been taking risk and every single one of them have led me to the opportunity to start my own business at 21 years old. I had no prior experience in any jobs I had but my hard work and determination got me there for a reason. I take risk because I know even in failure there’s opportunities to learn and grow.
Remaining authentic and continuing to believe in my brand are the most important principles to me. I believe in my services, my brand, and my skillset. I took time to design and come up with Harmless Home because I wanted it to be something I was truly proud of. I also think remaining trustworthy and honest are some of my most important values. I want all of my clients to feel safe and comfortable when i’m in their space.
My goal for Harmless Home is to eventually higher cleaners and step away from the cleaning services so I can focus more on organizing. By the end of my career I would like to have more than one business that can thrive without me all the time so that I can be present with my family and enjoy my successes. No matter the stage of my career I will always continue learning and looking for new ways to grow.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love the Katy Trail Ice House to enjoy on the weekends. While you wait for a table you can take a stroll on the Katy Trail and then enjoy a cold beverage and the best barbecue! I also love that it’s dog friendly.
Miriam Cocina Latina is one of mine and my partners favorite date nights. The chicken enchiladas are amazing and the Tres Leches is to die for.
Griggs park has the best skyline view of Dallas.
Bishop Arts is also becoming my favorite because there’s a variety of incredible restaurants, boutiques and the environment is very relaxed and friendly.
Deep sushi in Deep Ellum is one of the best sushi places I’ve ever had.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My best friend and boyfriend Jorge has been the most supportive and encouraging since the idea of starting Harmless Home came about. He helped me turn what seemed like a distant dream into my reality, Without him I wouldn’t have had the courage to start my business at 21 years old. I am so grateful to have such an incredible partner by my side.
Website: https://www.chooseharmlesshome.com/
Instagram: https://instagram.com/chooseharmlesshome?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA==
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chooseharmlesshome?mibextid=LQQJ4d
Other: TikTok –https://www.tiktok.com/@chooseharmlesshome?_t=8dQMCkSLSME&_r=1
Image Credits
Wunker Photography