Movers and Shakers | Charlene & Antoinette Simms | Wentworth Wills
Sisters Charlene and Antoinette Simms are the founders of Wentworth Wills. The business, which was launched five years ago, produces legal documents and educates people on the importance of estate planning. The documents they produce are Wills, Lasting Powers of Attorney, and Trusts.
What inspired you to start your own business?
Antoinette had been working for a local authority dealing with the finances of people who had lost capacity. She noticed that her friends and family knew nothing about the subject and she started to teach them.
Eventually, we both trained as Will Writers in early 2018 and by late 2018 we had set up our own small business. We wanted more time, and freedom and to be able to help people in the way we want to.
How far ahead do you plan and what keeps you on track and motivated?
We plan around two-three weeks ahead with regard to our diaries, as that is as far as clients can book in appointments with us. As for social media planning, we usually plan that again two-three weeks ahead, so that we always have some content to share.
Are there any sacrifices you’ve had to make as an entrepreneur?
You have to wear many hats as an entrepreneur so at times you have to sacrifice time while you are building it up. We find our minds are often busy with ideas, so our headspace is also often ‘on the go’.
What has been the most amazing day in your entrepreneurial life so far?
We love speaking at events, especially those aimed at women. We get to impart some knowledge and we often learn so much too.
What has been your scariest moment?
As much as we enjoy speaking events, they are also the scariest!
What is the best thing about being your own boss?
Having autonomy and getting to help families.
What are the challenges of working for yourself and how do you tackle them?
You tend to work very hard, which is both good and bad, because you work very long hours at times and have your own pressure of wanting to do a good job. Scheduling some much-needed time and breaks are key to keeping balance.
Who do you admire or look to for inspiration as a business owner?
Jazz Rose He’s our business mentor and has scaled his business and continues to do so.
What piece of advice has had the most impact on your business? And who was it from?
If others have done it before we can do it too
and
from Jazz Rose – communication is the gateway to currency. Meaning if we effectively explain the importance of what we do, it’ll increase our sales.
What are the three books, websites or resources (professional or personal) that you would recommend to other business owners?
How to Win Friends and Influence People,
What other passions do you have away from your business? How do you relax?
Antoinette – spending time with family and going for walks
Charlene – Roller skating and the gym, getting my hair done and spending time with family.
Connect with Wentworth on social media:
Facebook – Wentworthwills
Insta @wentworthwills