Celebrating Small Business Month: Reflections on 24 Years as a Mobile Notary & Apostille Professional

As we celebrate National Small Business Month this May, I find myself reflecting on my own 24-year journey as the owner of Notary Long Beach-Mobile Notary & Apostille. Small businesses like mine form the backbone of the American economy, and this month gives us an opportunity to recognize the unique challenges, triumphs, and contributions of independent entrepreneurs across the country.

The Power of Small Business in America

Small businesses represent more than just economic entities—they're the embodiment of the American dream, bringing personalized service, community connection, and innovation to our daily lives. According to the Small Business Administration, there are over 34 million small businesses in the United States, accounting for 99.9% of all businesses and employing nearly half of the American workforce.

These statistics aren't just numbers; they represent millions of stories like mine—individuals who took a leap of faith to build something meaningful from the ground up.

My 24-Year Journey with Notary Long Beach-Mobile Notary & Apostille

When I started my mobile notary and Apostille business in 2001, I couldn't have imagined the path ahead. What began as a desire for independence and flexibility evolved into a deep commitment to serving my community through essential legal services.

The Early Days

Starting a mobile notary business required relatively little capital compared to many other ventures, but demanded significant investment in knowledge, certification, and building a reputation for reliability. I still remember my first clients—nervous homebuyers signing mortgage documents, elderly individuals needing healthcare directives notarized in their homes, and local businesses requiring notarized contracts.

Evolving with the Industry

Over the past 24 years, I've witnessed tremendous changes in the notary industry. From the introduction of electronic notarization to navigating the pandemic's challenges, adaptation has been constant. When COVID-19 hit, mobile notaries like myself suddenly became essential workers, providing critical services when many offices were closed.

The Apostille Specialization

Adding Apostille services to my business model was a turning point. Helping clients authenticate documents for international use opened new opportunities and allowed me to serve a more diverse clientele—from families adopting children and handling overseas affairs to businesses expanding their global footprint. This specialization required additional expertise but differentiated my services in a competitive market.

Lessons from 24 Years of Small Business Ownership

As I reflect on nearly a quarter-century as an entrepreneur, several lessons stand out:

1. Adaptability Is Essential

From economic downturns to technological shifts to global pandemics, external forces have repeatedly challenged my business model. The ability to pivot quickly while maintaining core values has been crucial to longevity.

2. Relationships Matter More Than Transactions

In an increasingly digital world, the personal connection I maintain with clients has become my greatest competitive advantage. People remember how you made them feel during important life moments—whether they're buying their first home, establishing a business, or preparing documents for international travel.

3. Continuous Education Is Non-Negotiable

Laws and regulations governing notarization and international document authentication change regularly. Staying informed through professional associations, continuing education, and networking with colleagues has kept my services relevant and compliant.

4. Work-Life Integration Takes Practice

Running a mobile business with irregular hours taught me that traditional work-life balance often isn't realistic for entrepreneurs. Instead, I've developed a sustainable approach to integrating professional responsibilities with personal wellbeing.

The Future of Small Business in America

As we celebrate Small Business Month, I'm optimistic about the future. Despite challenges like economic uncertainty, rising costs, and technological disruption, small businesses continue to demonstrate remarkable resilience.

For newer entrepreneurs, I offer this encouragement: building a sustainable small business requires patience and persistence. My notary business grew steadily over time by focusing on exceptional customer service, precision, and building lasting relationships with clients.

Supporting Small Businesses Year-Round

While May gives us a specific occasion to celebrate small businesses, I encourage everyone to make supporting local entrepreneurs a year-round commitment. Whether it's choosing a local service provider, writing positive reviews, or simply referring friends to your favorite small businesses, these actions make a tangible difference.

Conclusion: Gratitude for the Journey

As I mark my 24th anniversary in business this year, I'm filled with gratitude—for my clients who have trusted me with their important documents, for the community that has supported my growth, and for the opportunity to build something meaningful that serves others.

National Small Business Month reminds us that behind every small business is a dream, a risk-taker, and often, as in my case, decades of dedication to a craft. Here's to all the entrepreneurs who make our communities more vibrant, one small business at a time.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimberly D. McKendell is the owner of Notary Long Beach-Mobile Notary & Apostille, a certified mobile notary public and Apostille specialist serving Long Beach, California and surrounding areas since 2001. With thousands of successful notarizations completed over two decades, she offers expert mobile notary and document authentication services for attorneys, individuals and businesses throughout Southern California. Notary Long Beach-Mobile Notary & Apostille specializes in apostille services, notarizing real estate documents, living trusts, medical records, estate planning documents, title transfers, patent forms, international adoptions, prenuptial agreements, and power of attorney documents. For professional notary and apostille services in Long Beach and beyond, contact Kimberly for a convenient mobile notary experience tailored to your specific documentation needs.