Meet the Members: Michelle & Megan of BluePrint Creative & NorthStar Financial
In the world of business, it's not often you come across a pair as driven, dynamic, and dedicated as Michelle Blevins and Megan Burton. These two friends of eight years embarked on their entrepreneurial journey amid the challenging times of the pandemic. Together, they've carved their path to success and growth, making them a formidable force in the business world.
Megan Burton and Michelle Blevins
With nearly 10 years experience in the restoration and cleaning industry and a degree in journalism and public relations, Michelle Blevins combined her talents to create Blueprint Creative (BPC). Based out of Rochester Hills, Michigan, BPC is a publishing and consulting firm that serves cleaning and restoration companies across the United States. The cornerstone of the business is the production of the Cleaning & Restoration Magazine, the oldest trade publication dedicated to the disaster restoration industry. It's no small feat to manage such a niche publication, but Michelle's dedication and expertise make it look easy. Michelle thrives on building relationships, crafting strategic marketing initiatives, and serving others.
Megan Burton is the financial wizard behind the scenes. She launched NorthStar Financial, where her first client just happened to be none other than BPC. Megan's financial niche played a crucial role in steering BPC's finances even before the company officially launched in July 2021. As BPC grew, Megan transitioned into the full-time role of Director of Operations, overseeing the company's operations with precision and care.
One of the most memorable moments for these two friends was reaching a significant revenue milestone after just 19 months in business. They had initially projected it would take more than five years to reach that level. It was this moment when they realized it was time to find a more centralized office space where they could collaborate more effectively, free from the distractions of home life. Their search led them to the discovery of 429 MAIN in Downtown Rochester, where they found a home for their businesses. They signed a one-year lease that day and have never looked back.
Megan’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
"Stick with it."
Michelle’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
“Go for it”
They emphasize that there will be challenges, mistakes, and curveballs along the way, but success is entirely possible. They believe that life is too short to pass up on your dreams and encourage others to get a solid business plan together, lean on mentors, make a list of what needs to be done, and just go for it. As for their future, Michelle and Megan have ambitious plans. While BPC was initially envisioned as a two-woman show, it has since grown to include eight full and part-time employees across the United States. They envision the team and company continuing to grow exponentially year-over-year, with aspirations of launching and acquiring more publications and expanding into other industries.
But their story isn't just about their businesses. Michelle and Megan enjoy the community and support they've found at 429 MAIN. They love the ability to focus on their work while still being surrounded by familiar faces in the coworking space. It's a place where they say good morning to colleagues, see the hustle and bustle around them, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Downtown Rochester. Plus, they don't have to worry about maintenance, utilities, cleaning, and more – it's a turnkey solution that allows them to concentrate on their dreams.
For Michelle and Megan, the entrepreneurial journey has been a rollercoaster ride, but their passion, determination, and partnership have been their keys to success. As they continue to expand and grow, their story serves as an inspiration to aspiring entrepreneurs and a testament to the power of friendship, dedication, and hard work. We look forward to witnessing their continued success and growth in the years to come.
