You know those Instagram accounts where you "like" every post and daydream about the IRL friendship the two of you would have based on the 1% of this person's life you see? No, just me? Fine. Well, today's bitch is my friend on Instagram (and in my mind). While we haven't actually met yet, we do swap a lot of "likes" and comments on each other's posts.

Erin does the kind of social media I like:  80% personality and real life, and 20% hey, I do a thing. The fact that I've decided I like Erin without having met her should tell you how personable and authentic she is online. I'm not surprised she's as successful as she is. I am surprised we're not friends yet, but I'll remedy that. Meet today's bitch, Erin Sparks!

What do you do and what is the name of your business?

I own a Vintage Furniture Rental Company called Vintage Sparkle.

When did you first learn about this field of work? How did you know it was what you wanted to do?

I started off selling vintage home decor and still have an Etsy shop. I was finding myself drawn to really dramatic pieces that would work well in a photo shoot, or for events. I had the idea for rentals, and the rest is history!

What is the best piece of business advice you’ve been given?

I love Donald Miller’s podcast:  Story Brand. It’s a marketing podcast and he always says: “If you confuse, you lose.” This is so helpful for me because as a creative it’s easy to be like, 'I do this and this and this, and oh, I can do that too!' but that’s not helpful for potential clients. I’m always working on making my messaging crystal clear, so that when people think cool vintage rentals, they think Vintage Sparkle.

Can you name the biggest lesson you’ve learned or that helped improve the way you work?

I am always asking, how can I make this better? As someone who is NOT a perfectionist, or good at follow through and details, it really helps me.

What would you do with two more hours a day?

If I’m being honest, I’d probably work.

What has been the biggest sacrifice you’ve made?

Well, I basically have zero hobbies. Everything I do kind of revolves around the business. It gets pretty consuming and I’m not proud of that. I’ve been a shitty friend. *sigh*

What is your greatest success, or something you’re most proud of related to what you do?

The Pilgrimage Festival is a big music festival in Franklin, TN. They rent my entire inventory for their backstage/VIP/artist/media lounges. It’s my biggest job of the year and I’m so honored to be a part of it!

Do you have a morning ritual that helps you set the tone for the day?

Coffee and exercise!!

How do you decompress at night?

TV, Pinterest, or reading.

What helps when you’re stuck? Do you have a motto or quote that inspires/motivates you?

“Do your best and forget the rest” ha - kinda lame, I know. But I say it to myself all the time because I struggle to do my best (because I get bored or distracted), and I also struggle to LET THINGS GOOOOO!!!!

What does self care look like in your life?

Exercise, candles, wine… I honestly suck at self care.

Are there any women who helped pave the way for your success?

My mom was a single working mom, so I definitely grew up watching a woman work really hard. She taught me some key lessons like, where there’s a will there’s a way, it never hurts to ask/try, and kill 'em with kindness. Man, she used to tell me these three things all the time growing up. She lived them, as well. I use these lessons on the daily, they’re engrained in me. Because of her, I do not give up easily, I’m not afraid to ask for what I want, and when people are mean to me, I’m SUPER nice back. *smile*

Lastly, and most important, what is your favorite TV show and what is your favorite snack?

I recently binge watched Boss Girl and loved it - it was like watching a skinny, fashion version of my life. I really love Scandal. Favorite snack is Halo Top ice cream!! I’m eating it right now... for breakfast!

All photos courtesy of Erin Sparks

P.S. Meet last week's bitch:  EBTH Sales Specialist, Brittney Forrister!

P.P.S. See a full list of all my Bitches here!