Based in the heart of South Wales, Laura Dunn’s work spans the globe, creating a legacy that reaches from Wales, to Hong Kong, to the USA.
Laura Dunn has grown up knowing she wanted to start a business one day. After achieving her MA in Political Communication from Cardiff University, she wrote, blogged, and most importantly worked hard until she found herself at a point where businesses wanted her voice.
From that point on, LED Media was born and quickly rose to become one of Wales’ best content powerhouses.
Laura has been shortlisted for the ‘Expat Entrepreneur of the Year’ and ‘Micro Business Entrepreneur of the Year’ awards at the Entrepreneur Wales Awards, sponsored by Business Wales, Welsh Government. I had a chat with Laura to find out more about her global business.
Tell us about the business…
“LED Media specialises in creative communications, social media and media relations. Based in South Wales, I work with a range of B2B, tech, lifestyle and retail businesses, providing and managing content, social media and media relations. My clients are based in Wales, across the USA and in Hong Kong!”
When and how did you start the company?
“I started LED Media in 2014 as there was a demand from individuals and businesses in my network for help with content creation and social media. One day I was blogging for myself, and the next I was working with businesses!”
Had you always wanted to run your own business?
“Starting a business has always been something I’ve wanted to do; I just never thought I would bite the bullet in my early 20s! From a very young age I was taught about the ethos of working hard and saying yes to opportunities - this mindset has played a role in encouraging me to start and run my own business.”
What (or who) inspired you to start the business? And what (or who) inspires you to keep going?
“My family, friends and clients all inspired me to start my business, and without a supportive network I wouldn’t be where I am today. New ideas, invigorating opportunities and collaborating with individuals and businesses drives me forward, as well as my mentors and inspiring women in business. Being selected as one of the 35 Under 35 Welsh entrepreneurs to watch and two nominations for the Entrepreneur Wales Awards are also great motivators!”
What are your best and worst qualities as a business person?
“I’m committed to my job and focused on delivering results for my clients. These qualities are evident throughout my work, and I’m always opportunity spotting for my clients and my business as a whole. I can be quite impatient at times- I think it’s because I always want to be pushing forward, eager for results!”
What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs in Wales?
“I would encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to get out there and do it! Do your research, plan and work hard. Reach out to people who share similar interests, or have a career path that you admire. Find ways in which you can work and collaborate with others in your field, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Don’t be afraid of failure and be prepared to be in it for the long haul.”
Why did you enter the Entrepreneur Wales Awards?
“The opportunity to enter the prestigious Entrepreneur Awards was one that I couldn’t pass! As a finalist, the Awards have already and will open doors and strengthen my business at home and abroad.”
Why is Wales a great place to do business?
“Wales is a diverse and forward-thinking place to do business, and with a number of thriving industries, the possibilities and opportunities for my business are endless. The support and resources available from the Welsh Government for entrepreneurs and new businesses is fantastic- Wales is a great place to do business!”
You can find out more about the Entrepreneur Wales Awards here.
