In high school, I took a home economics class where we learned about cooking and sewing. How I wish they had taught me about personal finance, like balancing a checkbook, how credit cards work, what is an interest rate, etc. I eventually learned these things in college and young adulthood, but how great would it have been had I attended a formal class or webinar where I could learn about financial planning. Thankfully there is Cheers to Financial Freedom, whose goal is to empower individuals of all ages with the essential principles of personal finance.
Erin Gore is a former public school Economics and Personal Finance teacher. Combining her business knowledge and love of teaching, Erin started Cheers to Financial Freedom, which provides in-person consultations and online services.
Please meet Erin Gore, owner and founder of Cheers to Financial Freedom!
(Photo courtesy of Cheers to Financial Freedom)
How/why did you begin your business?
Erin: I began Cheers to Financial Freedom in 2021, driven by a passionate desire to address the widespread lack of financial literacy that I had observed throughout my former career as a licensed Personal Finance teacher in Virginia and Arizona. Having witnessed firsthand the profound impact that this gap in knowledge can have on individuals’ lives, I was inspired to take action and create a solution that would empower people of all ages and backgrounds with the essential principles of personal finance.
Recognizing that financial education is not only about numbers but also about aligning financial decisions with values, needs, and desires, I founded Cheers to Financial Freedom to provide comprehensive resources and guidance tailored to each individual’s unique circumstances. By prioritizing a holistic approach to financial planning, I aim to help my clients achieve not only monetary success but also a profound sense of overall wellness and empowerment.
Since its inception, Cheers to Financial Freedom has been dedicated to breaking down barriers to financial literacy and equipping individuals with the tools and knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of the financial world with confidence and clarity. Through one-on-one consultations, online resources, and a variety of other services, I am committed to empowering my clients to take control of their financial futures and build lives that align with their goals and values.
As a working mother, what is one tip or piece of advice that you would give to other female entrepreneurs?
Erin: As a working mother and entrepreneur, one piece of advice I would offer to other female entrepreneurs is to prioritize self-care and balance. Running a business while managing the responsibilities of motherhood can be incredibly demanding, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed and burnt out if you don’t take care of yourself.
One tip I’ve found invaluable is to carve out dedicated time for self-care activities that replenish your energy and nourish your well-being. Whether it’s scheduling regular breaks throughout the day, setting boundaries around work hours, or making time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation, investing in your own self-care is essential for maintaining your physical, mental, and emotional health.
Additionally, don’t hesitate to ask for support and delegate tasks when needed. Building a strong support network of friends, family, and fellow entrepreneurs can provide invaluable assistance and encouragement as you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and motherhood.
Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential for your success and happiness as both an entrepreneur and a mother. By prioritizing self-care and balance, you’ll be better equipped to tackle the demands of running a business while nurturing your family and personal well-being.
What do you like best about having a business in the San Fernando Valley?
Erin: As an entrepreneur in the San Fernando Valley, one of the aspects I appreciate most about having a business in this vibrant area is the sense of community and support among local entrepreneurs and residents. The San Fernando Valley has a rich tapestry of diverse businesses and industries, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment that fosters innovation and growth.
I particularly enjoy the opportunities for networking and collaboration that abound in the San Fernando Valley. Whether it’s participating in local business events, joining industry associations, or simply connecting with fellow entrepreneurs over coffee, there’s a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support that permeates the local business community.
What adds to my appreciation is the personal connection I have to the area. My husband is originally from the San Fernando Valley, and his lifelong connections have helped me plant myself and grow within the community. These ties have provided valuable insights and connections, further enriching my experience as a business owner in the region.
Overall, I feel fortunate to be a part of the thriving business community in the San Fernando Valley, and I look forward to continuing to contribute to its growth and success in the years to come.
If there was one thing you wish you knew before you began your business, what would that be?
Erin: If there was one thing I wish I knew before I began my business, it would be the importance of embracing change and being adaptable. While I entered the world of entrepreneurship with a solid plan and a clear vision, I quickly learned that things are constantly evolving in the business landscape.
In order to grow and thrive, it’s essential to remain flexible and open to new opportunities, even if they deviate from your initial plans. Markets shift, consumer preferences change, and technological advancements emerge—all of which can have a significant impact on your business.
By acknowledging the inevitability of change and adopting a mindset of adaptability, I’ve been able to navigate unforeseen challenges and capitalize on emerging trends. Whether it’s adjusting my product offerings, refining my marketing strategies, or exploring new avenues for growth, I’ve learned to embrace change as an opportunity rather than a setback.
Ultimately, the ability to adapt to change has been instrumental in the success and evolution of my business. It’s a lesson I continue to carry with me as I navigate the ever-changing landscape of entrepreneurship, knowing that flexibility and resilience are key to sustained growth and innovation.
For more information on Cheers to Financial Freedom, visit the website here. Also, don’t forget to check out Erin’s Instagram account so that you can get the latest updates!
Disclosure: No monetary compensation was received for this post. The image shown in this post is used with permission. As always, my opinions are 100% my own.
This was such a great read. Love to see women working in this arena!
My son needs to read this post. He has been struggling with money.
Greetings, Erin! Your passion and dedication as the owner and founder of Cheers To Financial Freedom are truly inspiring. Your commitment to helping others achieve financial independence is commendable.