When did you start your business?
Bowerbird Publishing was established in 2021 with a focus on self-published authors or writers who hadn’t been able to secure a book deal in the past.

What was the inspiration behind your work/business?
Bowerbird Publishing was founded with a clear vision: to redefine the publishing experience by offering a high level of personalized service, innovative solutions, and a collaborative approach to achieving authors' goals.

What are you most excited about in your work/business?
Our target clientele includes independent authors, emerging writers, and business professionals who seek to publish books that reflect their unique perspectives and expertise. We cater to a diverse range of genres and formats, including fiction, non-fiction, academic works, and professional guides. Our focus is on providing tailored solutions that meet the specific needs of each author, allowing them to achieve their publishing goals with confidence and ease. This individually tailored experience provided to Bowerbird Publishing excites me and is what I wish I was offered when I decided to write my first book.

What has been the most challenging thing about starting your work/business?
When I started Bowerbird Publishing in 2021, I relied heavily on contractors and outside service providers to fulfill various aspects of publishing, such as graphic design and editing, which were beyond my expertise. This approach allowed me to establish strong business foundations while delivering high-quality services to authors.

As my confidence grew, I made a conscious decision to upskill myself, particularly in graphic design. This strategy not only reduced costs but also enabled me to take a more hands-on approach with my clients. Today, I am a qualified editor, graphic designer, illustrator, and copywriter, which is a testament to my commitment to personally delivering the most professional services to my authors.

By gaining expertise in these areas, I can ensure the highest level of project management and a deep understanding of each phase of publishing, which ultimately benefits the client. This comprehensive approach gives me confidence that the books produced by Bowerbird Publishing meet the highest quality standards and align perfectly with the authors' vision.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about starting a work/business?
The most important step to starting my business was to test the industry by starting small. Initially, I took on a client who understood that hers was my first paid publication project and that if she was willing, I would use her as a learning experience. This gave me an idea of timeframes, costs and skills needed to complete a book and gave me ideas on how to improve processes, making publishing a viable business for me.
It’s also important to have a secure support network around you. I have battled with not having the support I’ve needed in my business from my nearest and dearest. This has made things very difficult. To combat the lack of support, I have invested in a mentor and business coach, as well as making connections with industry peers for advice and feedback.

Why did you enter the Women Changing the World Awards?
I loved the category ‘Woman in Literature.’ It was a category that I felt I fit in and could contribute to if I was to become a winner. I am extremely passionate about improving the literary landscape of the world, especially for future generation. The Women Changing the World awards is a wonderful platform to propel any idea, mission or purpose. Also, I love anything Peace & Katy do!

What did you enjoy the most about being part of the awards?
Although I couldn’t attend in person, I loved watching the live feed of the awards ceremony. It was done so well and I found the winners speeches to be exceptionally inspiring. It was amazing to hear from women from all over the world.

What surprised you most about the awards?
How inspired I felt to be included in such a diverse selection of women in business. This was my first international awards experience and it was next level in terms of connections and opportunities for growth.

How did the awards help you in your work/business?
First and foremost, it has been a great confidence boost and validation that my passion and purpose is making an impact. Secondly, the international recognition has been a good news story that has been picked up by many media outlets. It’s been a terrific marketing platform.

What advice would you give to other women thinking about entering the awards?
The process has been very beneficial on a personal and professional level for me. It has reminded me to keep following my dreams and win or lose, it’s an absolute honour to be considered in such a prestigious award. I would highly recommend entering.

What has been the best thing about starting your own work/business?
Independence. Meeting new people. Stepping out of the shadow of my children.

What’s happening next in your work/business?
In 2025 I hope to continue expanding my business by trialling new and exciting events in my local area. Publishing is the foundation to my business but with my passion for expanding the literary landscape of the area, I believe that events will help bring awareness to the importance of reading and re-energise the love of books.

What are your big plans for the future?
To continue to grow my business while improving my personal goals like finding support networks that work for me. I also want to learn to communicate better with those in my circle who don’t support my dreams and ambition, so that they can learn to grow as well. I believe that with a stronger support network, my business will flourish even further.

How can we connect with you?
www.crystalleonardi.com
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100070103531175
https://www.instagram.com/bowerbird_publishing/
https://lnkd.in/gDyVkEG2
https://www.youtube.com/@bowerbirdpublishing