More working Americans are dreaming about becoming their own boss. A recent survey by Allwork.Justeir found nearly 8 in 10 employees are thinking about launching their own businesses. But few actually take the leap.
Shaquanna West is one of the few who did. In July 2024, she purchased a struggling Pinot’s Palette art studio in Summit, New Jersey. Less than a year later, she increased the studio’s revenue by 60%. By February 2025, she had also acquired a second location. Both studios are now thriving, and West is building a name as a bold, purpose-driven business leader.
Turning Struggle Into a Successful Business Move
When West bought the two Pinot’s Palette studios, neither was profitable. One had little to no recurring revenue, and the other struggled with inconsistent sales. While many might have walked away, she saw an opportunity others missed.
“I understood operations, people, and culture,” West shared in an interview. “I believed that with the right strategy and leadership, I could turn things around. And I did.”
Her success didn’t come from art expertise — West isn’t an artist herself. Instead, she brought strong leadership, business management skills, and a sharp operational mindset to the table. She also credits her talented team of artists and supportive franchise partners for helping bring her vision to life.
Leaving Burnout Behind to Build Her Own Dream
West’s journey began with exhaustion. After years working in corporate, nonprofit, and association roles, she felt emotionally drained and overlooked. Despite her business and journalism degrees and consistent leadership positions, she faced micromanagement, credit-stealing, and limited growth opportunities.
“I realized I couldn’t keep pouring into a system that wasn’t pouring back into me,” she said.
To heal, West turned to writing. She published two children’s books about confidence, creativity, and diversity. It was her way of reclaiming her voice and beginning the life she truly wanted. Business ownership naturally followed.
No Map, No Mentor, But Plenty of Faith
Even though West always dreamed of owning a business, franchise ownership wasn’t on her radar at first. She had no mentors or guides in the franchise space. Still, when the opportunity appeared, she leaned in.
“My biggest fear wasn’t failure. It was regret,” West explained. “I was afraid of looking back and knowing I stayed in situations that didn’t serve me out of fear.”
She used a mix of personal and retirement savings to fund the business, after consulting with financial advisors and loved ones. Today, while her business hasn’t fully replaced her corporate salary yet, West has gained something priceless: peace, time, and the freedom to create on her terms.
Representation and Ownership Matter in Every Industry
As a Black woman franchise owner, West acknowledges both the support and challenges she’s faced. She’s had to advocate for herself in spaces where she was underrepresented, proving her abilities to audiences not always ready to see her shine.
“Representation is everything,” West said. “When people see a Black woman owning, leading, and building with excellence, it expands their view of what’s possible.”
Her presence in a mostly white-owned franchise space serves as both a mirror and a breakthrough for others watching. It’s about more than business; it’s about creating new narratives and spaces where others feel welcome and inspired to follow.
Advice for Others Ready to Break Free
West offers heartfelt advice to anyone stuck in an unfulfilling job. She believes life is too short to wait for permission to pivot.
“You don’t have to stay where you are,” she advised. “Get clear on what kind of life you want — and take one step toward it.”
Whether it’s starting a business, finding a healthier workplace, or just reclaiming your peace, West believes those decisions matter. Through business and storytelling, she’s built a life that reflects every part of who she is.
