Today we’d like to introduce you to Lauren Simone.
Hi Lauren, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My story began in 2017, about a year after relocating to the DMV metro area. I had just graduated from Virginia State University with a degree in Mass Communications and was pursuing my master’s in Strategic Communications. At the time, I was working as a marketing assistant for a nonprofit—but unexpectedly, I was let go from that position. I was devastated. With big dreams and even bigger feelings, I found myself uncertain of what was next.
In that moment, I decided to start a blog as a creative outlet and began showcasing some of my website and graphic design skills. That same year, I officially launched what was then called The L. Simone Company Blog and started building websites on WordPress.
Over time, what started as a blog and side hustle began to evolve. I expanded my services to include website and graphic design for a variety of clients—from caterers and online hair companies to mega churches and more. By 2020, I had completed over 30 websites, which may not seem like a lot, but considering I was doing it in between work and school, it was a major accomplishment.
Now in 2025, I’ve doubled that number and expanded my offerings to include branding essentials, logo creation, social media management, and marketing strategy. What’s helped me get to this point is a mix of determination, grace, and faith. I’ve allowed myself the space to rebrand, grow, and understand that entrepreneurship is a marathon—not a sprint.
By.LaurenSimone is proudly a kingdom business, grounded in faith. Every step of the way, I include God in the process, and that’s made all the difference.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The road has definitely not been smooth—but it’s been full of growth.
One of my biggest struggles early on was falling into the trap of the “girl boss” hustle culture. Between the pandemic and now, I launched multiple ventures alongside my design business, including an online clothing boutique and a jewelry subscription company. I’ve always loved fashion and accessories, and I thought expanding my brand was the next natural step.
But what I didn’t realize at the time was how overwhelming it would become. I found myself constantly busy but not necessarily fulfilled. I was struggling with time management, financial planning, and most importantly—alignment with my purpose. In 2023, I made the difficult but necessary decision to close my boutique and jewelry subscription company and fully dedicate myself to my website and graphic design business.
Letting go of those ventures wasn’t easy. There was a lot of second-guessing and even feelings of failure. I had built a public image as a “boss babe,” and people knew me for those businesses. In many ways, I had placed my identity in them. But entrepreneurship has a way of teaching you hard but beautiful lessons—and one of those lessons was learning that I don’t have to do everything to prove my worth.
Focusing on one path has allowed me to evolve not just as a business owner, but as a woman. I’ve become better at my craft, more intentional with my time, and more at peace with my journey. And that’s something I would share with anyone considering entrepreneurship: you don’t have to chase everything. Purpose beats perfection, and clarity will always be more valuable than clout.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
At By.LaurenSimone, I specialize in helping small businesses and personal brands build a strong, beautiful, and strategic digital presence.
As a certified Wix Partner and Squarespace Creator, I combine creativity, communication strategy, and technical expertise to design websites and digital assets that not only look good—but work hard for your brand. I’m known for creating timeless, clean designs that reflect the heart of a business while also being functional, mobile-friendly, and user-focused.
My services span across three core areas:
Website Creative Design, Digital Design, and Business Development. I create websites for service-based professionals, e-commerce brands, podcasters, real estate agents, event planners, and creatives. I also provide social media content templates, print and marketing collateral, and offer toolkits and support for entrepreneurs looking to launch or rebrand their business.
What sets me apart is the personal approach I take with each client. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all experience. I prioritize strategic design, flexible payment options, and clear communication—making it easier for entrepreneurs to invest in their vision without overwhelm.
I’m most proud of the growth I’ve witnessed—not just in my portfolio, but in the confidence and clarity my clients gain after working together. Helping people bring their ideas to life and empowering them to show up boldly in digital spaces is what fuels my work every day.
At By.LaurenSimone, it’s not just about aesthetics—it’s about building with intention. Whether you’re launching from scratch or leveling up an existing brand, we’re here to co-create something meaningful, lasting, and impactful.
Risk taking is a topic that people have widely differing views on – we’d love to hear your thoughts.
When it comes to risk-taking, I believe in moving with both wisdom and intention.
I don’t take risks lightly—especially when it involves my business or the people I serve through it. For me, every opportunity that feels like a risk is something I bring to God first. Sometimes that means fasting, praying, or simply pausing to truly listen and reflect. I want to be sure that what I’m walking into aligns with my long-term purpose and not just short-term pressure.
One of the biggest risks I’ve taken was closing down two of my other business ventures—an online boutique and a jewelry subscription company—to fully focus on my design and branding business. It was hard to walk away from something that had visibility, sales, and even identity attached to it. But I knew deep down that in order to grow and serve well
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.bylaurensimone.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/by.laurensimone/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenSimoneXO
- Other: https://www.instagram.com/laurensimone.xo/
