Le Chéile Blog
Le Chéile Blog
The Power of Niching Down
As an agency owner, the idea of niching down can be both exciting and intimidating. On one hand, it promises more focused growth, higher rates, and better client relationships. On the other, it can feel like you're limiting your potential by turning away certain clients. In this post, I want to address the common fears agency owners face around niching and explain why narrowing your focus is actually the key to scaling your agency and increasing your revenue.
One of the biggest concerns I hear from agency owners is the fear that niching down will limit their potential client base. They worry that by focusing on a specific market or service, they’ll cut themselves off from opportunities and reduce their income.
The truth is, niching correctly actually accelerates your growth. It allows you to position yourself as an expert in a particular field, which attracts clients who are willing to pay a premium for specialized knowledge and services. Instead of competing with everyone, you become the go-to agency for that specific need. This clarity makes marketing and selling your services easier and more effective.
Statistics That Prove Niching Works
If you’re still on the fence about niching, let the numbers speak for themselves:
Niche agencies grow 2-3x faster than generalist agencies.
They charge 20-30% higher rates because of their specialized expertise.
Client retention in niche agencies is as high as 85%.
60% of new business for niche agencies comes from referrals—a testament to how powerful word-of-mouth marketing can be when you’re known for a specific expertise.
These statistics demonstrate how focusing on a niche market doesn’t limit growth—it drives faster revenue, higher profits, and more satisfied, loyal clients.
Streamlining Processes for Greater Efficiency
Focusing on a specific niche isn’t just good for attracting clients and commanding higher rates—it also helps streamline your agency’s operations. When you focus on a particular industry or service, your sales and internal processes become more efficient.
You’re able to refine your marketing strategy to speak directly to your ideal clients.
Your sales processes become more straightforward as you’re clear on the problems you’re solving for a specific group.
Your team can specialize in that niche, leading to faster execution, fewer mistakes, and an overall better client experience.
With fewer moving parts and a clearer target, you can create systems that make your agency more productive and profitable.
Referrals and Market Recognition: Niche Agencies Are Memorable
When you have a clear niche, your agency becomes more memorable and easier to refer. Think about it—if someone needs a specific service or expertise, they’re more likely to remember you when you’re known for that exact thing. For example, if you’re an agency that specializes in social media marketing for restaurants, you’ll be the first choice for restaurant owners looking to boost their social media presence.
A well-defined niche helps you stand out from the sea of generalist agencies, making it easier for clients to find you and refer you to others. In fact, 60% of new business for niche agencies comes from referrals, which means your clients will be your best marketing tool.
Flexibility in Niching: Evolving as You Grow
One common misconception about niching is that it’s permanent. The reality is, your niche can evolve as your business grows and changes. Niching doesn’t have to lock you into one path forever. Start with a niche that aligns with your values and passion, but don’t be afraid to pivot if your interests or market demands shift over time.
For example, you might begin by focusing on one industry, but as your expertise grows, you could shift your niche to cater to a broader segment of that industry, or even explore entirely new markets. The key is to start with a strong foundation and be open to change as your business evolves.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Strategic Relationships You Need
The 3 Types of Strategic Relationships You Need as a Business Owner
As a business owner, you need to cultivate three main types of strategic relationships to scale and thrive. These relationships provide support, resources, and opportunities to grow, and each type plays a distinct role in your business’s success:
Mentors: These are the people who guide and advise you based on their experience. They can help you navigate challenges, offer perspective, and provide valuable insights on what works (and what doesn’t).
Clients: Your clients are the lifeblood of your business. Building strong, long-term relationships with them is key to not only maintaining a steady revenue stream but also ensuring repeat business and referrals.
Peers and Influencers: These relationships often lead to collaboration, partnership, and the sharing of resources. Influencers can help expand your reach, while peers provide a support network and opportunities for collaboration.
Each relationship type brings something different to the table, but together, they form a powerful foundation for sustained growth and success.
Where to Find Strategic Relationships That Drive Growth
It’s one thing to understand the value of relationships, but it’s another to know where to find the right ones. During the episode, we discussed some of the best places and communities where business owners can connect with the right partners, clients, and influencers to help accelerate their growth.
Industry Events & Conferences: Attending industry-specific events is one of the best ways to meet like-minded people and potential collaborators. Whether in person or virtual, these events give you the chance to network and build lasting relationships.
Networking Groups & Meetups: Local or virtual networking groups can connect you with people in your area or industry. These communities often provide both personal connections and business opportunities.
Online Communities & Forums: There are numerous online platforms (like LinkedIn, Facebook Groups, and specialized industry forums) where you can connect with potential partners, clients, and influencers. The key is being active and engaging with these communities consistently.
The more strategic you are about where you invest your time and energy, the more likely you are to build relationships that will drive business growth.
Successfully Structuring Referral Partnerships
Referral partnerships are a game-changing strategy for business growth, and structuring them the right way is essential for ensuring mutual success. When done well, referral partnerships can become a steady source of new business, creating a consistent flow of clients and opportunities.
In our conversation, Melissa and I shared key insights on how to set up and nurture successful referral partnerships:
Align on Value: Both parties must clearly understand the value they bring to the table. A successful referral partnership is built on trust and mutual benefit. If both sides feel they are gaining something from the relationship, the partnership will thrive.
Establish Clear Terms: It’s important to have clear expectations for how referrals will be exchanged. Whether it’s a formal agreement or a mutual understanding, knowing how referrals will be made and tracked helps keep everything transparent.
Nurture the Partnership: Just like any relationship, referral partnerships need regular maintenance. Check in with your partners, provide them with updates on the referrals they’ve sent your way, and keep the lines of communication open to ensure the relationship stays strong.
By structuring these partnerships effectively, you can create a pipeline of new clients that continues to flow long after the initial connection is made.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Building Strong Relationships for Business Success
Building Strong Relationships for Business Success: Insights from My Conversation with Melissa
In my recent conversation with Melissa, we dove into one of the most important aspects of business success—relationships. Whether you're connecting with clients, peers, or influencers, strong relationships are the key to growth and long-term success. We covered some powerful insights, and I’m excited to share them with you.
Here are the key takeaways from our discussion that I believe every business owner can benefit from:
Building Relationships is Key to Business Success One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned over the years is that relationships truly are everything. It's not just about what you know—it’s about who you know and how you nurture those connections. Whether it’s clients, peers, or influencers, deep, meaningful relationships can completely transform your business. As I said during the episode, “If you don’t have relationships, you don’t have anything.” That’s the foundation for everything I’ve built.
Agency Collaboration Over Competition A key point Melissa and I discussed is how important it is to view other service providers as collaborators instead of competitors. When you stop seeing other agencies as threats, and instead look at them as partners, incredible opportunities for growth open up. Collaborating with other agencies can help both parties thrive, so why not create win-win situations?
Navigating Business Challenges Running a business isn’t always smooth sailing—there are slow periods, and it can be tough to stay motivated during those times. Melissa and I shared strategies for overcoming these difficult moments and maintaining a positive mindset. The key is focusing on your long-term vision and not getting discouraged by temporary setbacks.
The Role of Women in Business Another important topic we touched on was the role of women in entrepreneurship. I believe that embracing a feminine approach to business—one that emphasizes collaboration rather than competition—can be a powerful catalyst for success. When women support one another, they create a more inclusive, empowering environment where everyone can flourish.
Here are two of my favorite quotes from the episode that I think really capture the essence of our conversation:
“If you don’t have relationships, you don’t have anything.” — Meredith (That’s me!)
“You can't hide behind an agency brand and expect people to hire you. People hire people.” — Melissa
These words really resonate with me, and I hope they inspire you as much as they’ve inspired me.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Are You “Trying” Out Self Employment?
If you’ve recently been laid off and are considering “trying out” self-employment for a few months, you might be in the early stages of testing the entrepreneurial waters. And if that’s the case, keeping your business infrastructure light is usually perfectly fine.
But even in the early phases, it’s important to set a solid foundation. Here’s what you should consider doing:
1. Separate Your Personal and Business Expenses
Be super clear and intentional about keeping your personal and business finances separate. This will help you stay organized and avoid any confusion when it comes time to file taxes.
2. Set Up a Dedicated Business Email Address
Create an email address that’s exclusively for business communications. It doesn’t have to be anything fancy—something like yourbusinessname@gmail.com works just fine for now.
3. Open a Separate Business Bank Account
Open a separate bank account for your business. It can be under your name, or you can file a DBA (Doing Business As) and use that name for the account. This is crucial for maintaining clean records. Deposit all earnings and pay all business-related bills from this account. If you’re loaning money from your personal account to the business, make sure you clearly transfer the funds into the business account.
4. Designate a Personal Credit Card for Business Expenses
If possible, designate one personal credit card exclusively for business expenses, or consider setting up a new credit card just for your business.
5. Get an EIN (Employer Identification Number)
Even if you don’t have employees, an EIN is a smart idea—it helps you avoid using your Social Security Number (SSN) for business transactions. Best of all, you can get an EIN for free from the IRS.
6. Register Your Business Locally (If Required)
Check if your city or local government requires you to register your business. It’s always good to ensure that you’re in compliance with local regulations.
7. Talk to Your Tax Accountant
Let your tax accountant know that you’re now self-employed. They can provide tips that are specific to your situation and make sure you’re on the right track.
8. If You Have Assets to Protect, Consider Legal Protections
If your client or customer doesn’t provide an independent contractor agreement, it’s essential to get a robust agreement in place for yourself. You may also want to consider liability insurance—either general or professional—to specifically cover your business activities.
9. When to Formalize Your Business
Once you’re confident that self-employment is for you, you can start thinking about formalizing your business—naming it, incorporating it, and setting up more structured systems. Until then, this foundation will be everything you need to easily transition to an LLC or S-Corp later on.
However, if your “self-employed” experiment only leads to one project or a few side hustle sales before you go back to a traditional W-2 job, you won’t be stuck unwinding a formal business for 18-24 months.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
The Hard Questions Every Business Owner Needs to Answer
As a business owner, there’s more to your job than just doing the work. You also have to answer some pretty tough questions that can feel overwhelming, especially when you don’t have the right tools in place. Questions like:
What do my forward quarters look like?
How much net profit did I make in March?
Can I afford to give myself a raise?
Can I afford to hire an assistant? And how much can I pay them?
What are the margins on this project?
What should I be spending on payroll?
Sound familiar? 😵
Without the right financial tools, these questions can be incredibly stressful to answer. You might have an outdated spreadsheet gathering dust somewhere in your Google Drive, but when was the last time you actually updated it? 😬
The Solution: Clarity Through Custom Financial Tools
At Le Chéile, we’ve created a custom-built P&L and forecasting tool that helps bring you the clarity you need to make sound business decisions. Our team of data analysts works with you to craft a tool that is specifically tailored to your business, and we stay involved to ensure it stays updated and accurate.
Need something more hands-on? We’ve also designed DIY versions for entrepreneurs who prefer to build their own tools from scratch.
With the right financial tools in place, these once-overwhelming questions become a lot easier to answer. You’ll have the confidence to make smarter decisions and keep your business on track as it grows.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
From Consulting to Founding Le Chéile
My Journey to Building a Business I Believe In
In March 2019, I was consulting part-time while searching for “a job that meant something.” When friends suggested I consider going full-time, I laughed. The idea of making consulting my main gig seemed far-fetched.
By July 2019, I was all in.
When the pandemic hit, I had finally narrowed my focus to a niche client—creative female freelancers—but I still hadn’t fully defined my core offering.
As I spent more time talking to clients, a few key insights started to stand out:
They needed data to make crucial decisions.
Their accounting software wasn’t visually appealing or telling the right story.
They needed a Strategic Advisor who truly understood them and their business.
Business coaches and CPAs weren’t cutting it.
Fast forward to today, four years later, and Le Chéile has evolved into a thriving business that works primarily with female-founded boutique creative agencies scaling toward or beyond $1M in revenue. We serve select clients as their Strategic Advisor and Fractional CFO—and we’re proud of it.
A Small but Mighty Team
We’re a small but mighty team of data analysts who help our clients clarify their finances and make sound decisions based on data. Our custom-built P&L and forecasting tool evolves alongside our clients' needs. We offer the tool as a standalone product, but also have more affordable DIY versions for creative freelancers and entrepreneurs who need a more cost-effective solution.
The Best Part?
I’m obsessed with my clients. Honestly, talking to them makes my day. I’ve built a company that I truly believe in, and the best part is the incredible network of badass entrepreneurs I’ve been able to connect with along the way. Communities like The Female Founder Collective, Founder Institute, ilovecreatives, and Dreamers & Doers® have inspired me every step of the way.
Now, my work means something. I love helping build profitable businesses with people I genuinely care about.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Stay Small Until You Need to Hire
Let’s rethink growth in a rapidly expanding economy. We live in an economy that constantly pushes us to grow—more clients, bigger teams, and higher revenue, year after year. But here’s a thought: What if you questioned that growth mentality?
What is it that you truly want to achieve? Do you want your revenue to double in a year? And if so, why?
Mindfulness about growth is crucial. It allows you to stay true to your values and reminds you of why you started your business in the first place. Growth for the sake of growth isn’t always the right path.
If we scale too quickly, we risk losing touch with the very clients who helped us get where we are. Our rates can’t always keep up with the rising costs to run the business, and that’s when things start to feel out of balance.
The key is to stay close to your clients. Be mindful of their needs, and build a business that serves them well as you grow.
Mindfully growing your offerings and team ensures that your expansion aligns with your core values, rather than simply chasing the next milestone.
Scaling isn’t just about growing bigger—it’s about growing smarter.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Turning a Soft Decline into a Learning Opportunity
We’ve all been there: you send a comprehensive proposal with a high price point and scope, and then you get the dreaded soft decline. Your prospect isn’t ready for that level of work just yet. It's frustrating, but it’s also a learning opportunity—especially when you adopt a "always-learning" mentality.
I recently had a client reach out with a soft decline, asking, “What can we learn from this?” My response? A few key insights that can help refine the proposal process and avoid losing opportunities down the road.
1. Use the Goldilocks Approach
One of the biggest lessons here is the Goldilocks approach—offering the right-sized proposal that fits the client’s needs just right.
In this case, the prospect wasn’t quite ready for such a large project. How do we address this? By providing options. People like choice, and it helps them feel more in control of the process.
Instead of offering a one-size-fits-all proposal with a large price tag, break it down into different tiers or options that better match the prospect’s readiness and budget. Here are a few hard-hitting questions to ask during the discovery phase that can help clarify where your prospect stands:
"How quickly are you looking to get started on this?"
"Are you shopping around or are you ready to make an investment?"
"Based on what we’ve discussed, we’d expect this project to start at X. Is that an investment you’re ready to make?"
"What have you already explored for this challenge and/or considered leveraging?"
These questions will help you gauge how serious the prospect is and what they are looking for, allowing you to tailor your proposal to better suit their needs.
2. State Your "Starting At" Price Early
Don’t leave a call without stating your "starting at" price for the project. Even if the client says they don’t have a budget, chances are, they still have a number in mind—it’s just not being shared upfront.
If you’re met with hesitation, don’t be afraid to offer a mid-tier price to gauge their reaction. This gives you valuable insight into whether they’re truly ready for the level of service you're offering or if you need to adjust the scope.
For example:
"Our services typically start at $X for this type of project. Does that feel like a range you’re comfortable with?"
Once you get a reaction, you’ll know exactly how to adjust the proposal. If they seem hesitant, it’s a signal to offer more affordable options or scale back the scope to meet their current needs.
3. Simplify the Scope (Or Don’t Send It at All)
Instead of sending a detailed, overwhelming proposal right out of the gate, simplify the scope. A lengthy proposal with a large scope can feel intimidating to prospects who aren’t ready to commit to such a big project.
Here’s an example of how to approach this:
"It was great to meet you yesterday! Based on what we discussed, we'd love to put together a formal proposal for you. We can either start with XYZ or begin with X & Y to keep things smaller. Would you prefer we start with a small project? Alternatively, we can provide options for a scaled approach."
This gives your prospect a clear understanding of their options and the opportunity to choose a more manageable starting point, making it easier for them to say yes.
Soft declines don’t have to be the end of the road. They can actually be an opportunity to learn more about your prospect’s needs and refine your approach moving forward. By applying the Goldilocks approach, stating your starting price early, and simplifying the scope of work, you’ll be better positioned to meet prospects where they are—and ultimately, secure more wins.
When you keep learning and adapting, even soft declines can turn into valuable stepping stones for growth.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
How to Price Your Offers for Maximum Impact
I often talk about how the Goldilocks Approach works wonders when it comes to pricing your offers. Instead of offering just one flat package, why not give your clients some options? Here’s how it works:
Tier 1 – The “Starter” (For those who need an entry point)
Tier 2 – The “Just Right” (Your ideal, most profitable offer)
Tier 3 – The “Premium” (For clients who want VIP treatment)
Here’s why this pricing model works so well:
✨ Perception is Key: The higher tier makes the middle option (Tier 2) feel like a no-brainer. When clients see the premium offering, the middle option starts to feel like the best value for their needs.
✨ Increases Conversions: Giving your clients options empowers them to make the decision that works best for them. Instead of a one-size-fits-all solution, they feel more in control of their purchase, which often leads to higher conversions.
✨ Boosts Revenue: Let’s face it—some clients are going to choose the premium tier. And those who opt for the middle-tier offer are still paying more than they would have in a single package scenario, boosting your overall revenue.
What Pricing Strategies Work for You?
Are there other pricing strategies you’ve used that have worked wonders in your agency? I’d love to hear about them! Share your thoughts below or drop me a line.
At Le Chéile, we specialize in helping agencies design pricing strategies that maximize both profit and client fit—so you can grow and scale sustainably without leaving money on the table.
If pricing is a pain point for you, let’s connect!
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Say No To Scope Creep!
Ever had a prospect who keeps asking for more before they’ve even signed the contract?
“Can we hop on one more quick call?”
“Just a few small tweaks before we move forward…”
“Could you map out the strategy so we know exactly what we’re getting?”
If a client is pushing boundaries before the engagement even begins, guess what happens when you actually start working together?
🫠 Delays, scope creep, and endless revisions
🫠 Client churn and the constant need for new business development
🫠 Team fatigue and churn—and a hit to your margins
It’s a pattern that can seriously impact your agency’s operations, productivity, and morale.
Setting Strong Financial Foundations—Including Knowing When to Walk Away
At Le Chéile, we help agencies set strong financial foundations, and part of that is knowing when to walk away from a client who doesn’t respect your time or boundaries.
A client who isn’t respecting your time during the sales process will likely push boundaries once you’re engaged. You don’t want to start your relationship with a client on shaky ground, and here’s how you can stop scope creep before it begins:
✅ Clear Proposals: Make sure your proposals have firm deliverables and clear limits. This sets expectations from the start and makes it easy to refer back to when scope creep rears its head.
✅ Paid Discovery: Charge for discovery sessions and mapping out a strategy. If you’re putting in the time and effort to create a thoughtful strategy, it should be compensated. This also signals that your expertise is valuable, and you’re not giving away work for free.
✅ Confident Boundaries: Stand firm on your boundaries. The right clients will respect them, and that makes for a much smoother and more productive working relationship in the long run.
The Best Way to Avoid Scope Creep? Don’t Take on the Bad-Fit Clients in the First Place.
The most effective way to avoid these problems is to not take on clients who aren’t a good fit from the beginning. If something doesn’t feel right in the sales process, it’s likely only going to get worse once the work begins. Trust your instincts and stick to clients who truly value your time, expertise, and boundaries.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
The Truth About Scaling to 7 Figures
I’ve helped agencies cross the 7-figure mark and hit their next million. But here’s the thing: I’ve also seen some of those agencies realize that more revenue isn’t necessarily the ultimate goal they thought it would be.
Here’s what no one tells you about scaling:
More revenue may not mean more take-home pay.
Bigger teams may mean bigger headaches.
7-figure agencies may not be more sustainable—they’re just bigger.
The reality is that scaling isn’t always about chasing bigger numbers. It’s about crafting a business that serves you, your team, and your clients in a way that brings balance and long-term sustainability.
What We Focus On at Le Chéile
Instead of simply chasing the next milestone, at Le Chéile, we focus on something deeper: sustainable profitability. It’s not just about scaling—it’s about scaling mindfully.
That means:
Crafting high-margin offers, not just high-revenue offers. You can bring in more revenue, but if it isn’t profitable, it doesn’t add value to your business in the long run.
A team that supports you, not drains you. Scaling means having the right people on board, people who free you up to do what you do best, not create more stress.
A business that gives you freedom, not just a bigger payroll. The goal isn’t to grow just for the sake of growing. The goal is to create a business that works for you, giving you more freedom to live the life you want.
Scaling on Your Terms
Scaling to 7 and 8 figures is a huge accomplishment—but it’s only worth it if it’s your version of success. Don’t fall into the trap of following the narrative that bigger is always better. For some, scaling sustainably may mean staying smaller, more agile, and more intentional with the way they operate.
So, if you’re thinking about scaling, ask yourself: What does success look like for you? If your goal is to build a business that gives you freedom, profitability, and sustainability—not just bigger numbers—then let’s talk.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Why Your Agency Should Be Paying You Well—And What to Do If It’s Not
I see it all the time: agencies that are “doing well” on paper, but the Founder is barely paying themselves. In fact, many agency owners are paying contractors more than they pay themselves.
So, why does this happen?
Maybe you’re reinvesting everything back into the business to fuel growth. Or maybe you’re afraid to take more money because, well, what if next month is slow?
Here’s the truth: Your agency should be paying you well.
Period.
If it’s not, something’s broken. And fixing it isn’t just about making more money—it’s about recalibrating your entire approach to how you run your business.
Why It’s Not Just About Making More Money
It’s not enough to just focus on revenue growth if you’re not creating a sustainable, profitable structure for yourself. Here are the key elements that need to be addressed:
👏 Pricing for Profit: Are your prices reflective of the value you’re delivering and your overhead costs? Too many agencies underprice their services, thinking that the “next client” will help them get to where they want to be. But without strategic pricing, you’re always working harder for less.
👏 Financial Visibility and Clarity: If you’re guessing about your finances, it’s time to change that. You should know exactly where every dollar is coming from, where it’s going, and how it’s helping you build a profitable, sustainable business. There’s no room for financial guesswork in a thriving agency.
👏 Designing a Business Model That Serves YOU: Your business model should work for you, not just for your clients or your team. At the end of the day, you’re the one driving the business forward. If your model isn’t set up to support your goals, lifestyle, and well-being, then it’s time for a reset.
How Le Chéile Can Help You Fix These Gaps
At Le Chéile, we help creative founders like you fix these gaps. Our focus is on creating systems that empower you to grow your business without sacrificing your personal income or lifestyle. You deserve to build a business that supports your dreams and allows you to live the life you want—not the other way around.
If you’re ready to fix the gaps and design a business that serves you as much as it serves your clients, let’s talk.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Defending Progress: What Will You Do to Keep Moving Forward?
In 1964, Lyndon B. Johnson’s Civil Rights Act made it illegal to discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, and national origin. His words still resonate: “Lay aside irrelevant differences and make our nation whole.”
Today, we face a concerning shift in direction. The current administration is aiming to undo decades of progress, stripping away over 65 years of hard-fought gains in the fight for equality and equity. DEI (Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) initiatives, once seen as pivotal for corporate and societal growth, are now being phased out at the corporate level. The funding for these initiatives has been slashed, and many important programs and research are being cut, stalling the progress we’ve made.
Le Chéile’s Commitment to Underrepresented Communities
When I founded Le Chéile in 2019, I was deeply committed to serving those who make up the majority of our population yet are still underrepresented and too often overlooked. To date, over 90% of our clients have been creative people of color, LGBTQ+, and female founders—groups who deserve to be supported, empowered, and recognized. At Agency Darlings™, the approach Melissa and I share is no different.
So, what about now?
Even as we see efforts to turn back the clock on progress, we are committed to upholding our values and continuing to drive change. Our focus will remain on ensuring that everyone, no matter their race, gender, or background, feels like they have an equal opportunity to succeed. Whether you’re a white male or a beautiful combination of BIPOC, LGBTQ+, and/or female, we’re here to continue championing the importance of diversity in all its forms.
The Question for You: What Will You Do?
As the U.S. government and certain corporations, such as Target, Ford Motor Company, Meta, and others, move away from supporting the majority of our population and dismantle the very initiatives that have made a difference, what will you do?
Will you stand by and follow the trend, or will you take a stand like Apple, J.P. Morgan, and other organizations that continue to push forward?
What steps will you take to maintain your commitment to DEI in your hiring practices, your client base, and beyond? How are you ensuring that you represent and uplift voices different from your own?
Let’s use this as an opportunity to hold each other accountable and continue setting high standards in the work we do. Share your thoughts below—let’s help each other make a small difference, continue to challenge the status quo, and, together, keep pushing for progress.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Give Your Idea a Real Shot
When I speak to entrepreneurs, I’ve found one common thread: almost all of them started their businesses unexpectedly.
They didn’t wake up one day with a grand plan to run a company. And if they’re anything like me, they probably didn’t think they had it in them to be their own boss. The journey started out of curiosity, a bit of risk, and a spark of an idea.
For many, it began with a simple thought: “What if I gave this a try?”
They decided to go for it—for six months. After those six months, they were hooked, and so they gave it another six months. Slowly but surely, the cycle continued, each period of time building on the last, until they found themselves running a full-fledged business.
Fast forward to today: these entrepreneurs are now managing teams of employees, serving a client base bigger than they ever imagined, and earning more in a month than they used to make in an entire year.
A Reminder to Those With an Idea
If you’ve been sitting on an idea, unsure if it’s worth pursuing—this is your reminder: Give your idea a real shot.
You don’t need to have it all figured out from the start. You don’t need to know every step of the process. But take that leap, jump in, and give it a chance.
The truth is, you’ll never know what’s possible until you try. And when you do, you might just find yourself building something bigger than you ever dreamed.
So, what are you waiting for? Start today. See where it leads. You’ll be glad you did!
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
POV: You're Ten Minutes into a Pitch Call and Realize It's a Waste of Your Time.
We've all been there. You’re on a pitch call, and after just a few minutes, it’s painfully clear this isn’t going anywhere. You start to realize your time could be better spent elsewhere, but you’re stuck trying to navigate a conversation with someone who isn't a good fit for your services.
The truth is, this scenario can be avoided—if you take the right steps before the pitch call even happens.
Know Exactly What You're Offering
Before you get on that call, you should have a crystal-clear understanding of what you're offering. Know exactly what services or products you're delivering, how they’ll benefit your client, and why you're the right person to help them. The clarity you bring to the table will ensure you don’t waste time or energy pitching to the wrong audience.
Understand Your Client’s Needs and Budget
It’s also essential to understand who you're speaking to. You should have a good sense of their budget and needs. This allows you to tailor your offering and set realistic expectations for both parties. The last thing you want is to get deep into a conversation, only to realize the client’s budget doesn’t match your pricing or that your services don't align with their core needs.
The Importance of Preparation
But how do you get to that level of clarity? It starts with preparation.
Before you schedule the call, you need to ask the right qualifying questions. These questions will help you determine whether or not the prospect is a viable lead and whether it’s worth your time to engage in further conversations.
How to Qualify Leads
This process starts with understanding your breakeven point—the minimum you need to earn to keep your business running—and ideal client profile. Who are they? What do they need most? What can they afford? Having these answers will help you filter out unqualified leads and ensure you're spending your time on prospects that have the potential to be great clients.
We Help Our Clients Navigate These Questions
At Le Chéile, we help our clients answer these crucial questions through our engagements. We custom-build visual P&Ls and leverage this data to make informed, data-backed decisions. This process helps our clients move from uncertainty to clarity, ensuring they’re engaging only with the right leads and making better decisions about where to invest their time.
If this sounds like something you need help with, I’d love to hear from you.
Let’s make sure your time—and your business—are spent in the right places. Apply now to see how we can help you streamline your lead qualification and decision-making process!
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
What I've Learned About Work, Parenthood, and Support
Throughout my entire pregnancy, I was filled with a mix of excitement, joy—and yes, a bit of worry—about how my growing family would impact my work. As a Creative Agency Strategic Growth Advisor and the Founder of Le Chéile, I kept wondering: Will people still want to work with me? Will they look at me differently?
The more I opened up to my clients and an incredible network of female entrepreneurs, a few consistent themes kept coming up:
You’ll figure it out.
You’re going to make it work.
It’ll look a lot different than you think.
And, you know what? They were right.
When our baby arrived a full month early, I immediately shared the news with my clients. And, as expected, I was met with an outpouring of supportive messages. One that really stood out was from Lauren Bercuson, who graciously offered to deliver items directly to our hotel in Portland, Maine (I mean... 😇).
Navigating Work with a Newborn
As I slowly ease back into work, juggling client calls while navigating nap "schedules" and a brand-new human, I’ll admit: it hasn’t been easy. There’s definitely a learning curve. But having an amazing support system of founders, clients, and fellow entrepreneurs has made it not only manageable but also surprisingly fulfilling.
One thing I’ve learned—if I didn't already know it—is that I'm now more efficient with my time than ever before. It's like the world of multitasking has opened up a new level for me!
A Hat Tip to All the Working Moms
I’ve always had empathy for working moms, but now that I’m in the trenches, I have a whole new level of respect and understanding. The balance they strike between family, business, and personal life is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
So, to anyone who’s a business owner or founder embarking on parenthood: here’s what I know now—you’ll figure it out. You will make it work. And yes, it’ll look a lot different than you think. But trust me, it’s all worth it.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Agency Darlings: A new podcast
Introducing Agency Darlings™: A Fresh Take on Scaling Your Agency
Hey there, agency owners and growth-minded entrepreneurs! If you love the content I’m sharing here, you’re in for a treat. I’m excited to invite you to join us over at Agency Darlings™, the podcast where we bring a fresh, women-led perspective on scaling your agency to seven and eight figures.
Whether you're just starting out or already on your way to building an empire, we're here to share valuable insights and actionable strategies to help you grow your business—without the fluff.
Why Agency Darlings™?
This isn’t your typical podcast. We're diving deep into the unique challenges and opportunities that women and non-traditional agency owners face when growing a business. We chose THIS name because it celebrates the people and ideas that make this industry special. Each episode is designed to give you real, unfiltered advice that you can apply right away.
Through every episode, we’ll continue to spotlight the insights, lessons, and conversations that help you build an agency that’s not just successful, but unforgettable.
Exclusive Advice for Subscribers
But that’s not all—we’ve got something special for those who want to dive even deeper. In addition to our weekly episodes, we’re launching an invitation-only advice column called Agency Office Hours. This will be sent directly to your inbox, where we’ll answer real questions from agency owners just like you. Got a burning question or a growth challenge? You could see it featured in our next column!
Get Involved: Your Chance to Join Us Live!
We want to make this experience as interactive as possible. Drop a 👍 in the comments if you'd love to get an invite to the Agency Office Hours advice column. Plus, here’s a cool bonus: if you’re selected, you might even get the chance to join us for a live off-the-air session where we’ll dive into your specific growth challenges.
Tune In & Get Involved!
Ready to scale and grow with us? Tune in to Agency Darlings™ and don’t forget to grab your spot in the advice column for exclusive, personalized guidance. We want to hear from YOU! What other topics do you want us to cover? Leave your ideas in the comments, and who knows, your suggestion could be the focus of a future episode. The podcast will be available wherever you listen to podcasts, so be sure to tune in, subscribe, and let us know what you think.
We can’t wait to have you join us!
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Reflecting on Q1
Q1 is coming to a close, and WOW, has it been packed. As you reflect on this whirlwind quarter and your goals for 2025, ask yourself this: Are you spending your time where it matters most?
Are you focusing on projects that truly invigorate your brain and soul? Or are you just caught in the cycle of chasing growth for the sake of growth?
So many agencies fall into the trap of focusing on getting bigger—more clients, bigger teams, more revenue. But here’s the thing:
🫡 More clients don’t always mean more stability.
🫡 A bigger team doesn’t always mean less stress.
🫡 More revenue doesn’t always mean more profit (or more creative enjoyment!).
At Le Chéile, we take a different approach. We focus on sustainable profitability and scaling with intention—because growing just for the sake of growing doesn’t always serve you in the long run.
Here’s what we prioritize:
🌞 Profitability First – Scaling chaos isn’t the goal. It’s about building a sustainable, profitable business that gives you freedom and flexibility, not just bigger numbers on paper.
🌞 Pricing with Intention – You should be paid what you’re worth. By pricing your services with purpose, you ensure that you’re delivering value while maintaining healthy margins.
🌞 Financial Clarity – With clear financial insights, you can make data-backed decisions with confidence. No more guessing about where your money is going or how it’s working for you.
As we close out Q1, ask yourself: Are you scaling in a way that truly serves you and your vision? Or are you caught up in the pursuit of growth without considering what that growth means for your business, your team, and your overall well-being?
If you’re looking to scale more intentionally and focus on profitability, let’s chat.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Building a Purpose-Driven Brand
Think about walking into Brooks Brothers or SEPHORA. When you step into those stores, you’re there with a purpose. You know exactly what you’re looking for, and you might even know which section of the store holds that item.
Sure, you may get sidetracked by a few shiny new products along the way, but ultimately, you’re leaving with exactly what you came for. Why? Because both Brooks Brothers and SEPHORA have dialled in their niche. They target specific customers for specific reasons, and they’re known for exactly what they offer.
So, how can you apply the same approach to your business? How can you become the brand that people come to with a clear purpose and a solution they know they can trust?
The answer lies in narrowing your client niche.
Why Niche Matters: The Power of Focus
When you narrow your focus, you not only become known for something specific but also attract clients who are already aligned with what you offer. Just like Brooks Brothers doesn’t try to sell casual streetwear, or SEPHORA doesn’t sell gardening tools, your brand needs to identify what it’s really good at—and then focus on delivering that in the best way possible.
A clear niche helps you build brand recognition and trust. It turns your brand into a go-to solution for a specific problem, allowing you to stand out in a crowded market.
But, where do you start?
Start Small: Weed Out What Doesn’t Align Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, start by identifying the types of clients you don’t want to work with. It’s not just about focusing on who you want to serve, but also about eliminating the misalignments that drain your energy and resources.
Set Clear Parameters Defining your niche means creating clear parameters around the type of clients or industries you’ll work with. What specific problems can you solve? What kinds of businesses need your unique set of skills and offerings? Stick to these parameters, and be firm about what falls inside and outside your niche.
Create Industry-Specific Landing Pages Once you’ve identified your niche, make it easy for potential clients to find you. Create landing pages tailored to specific industries or client types. For example, if you specialize in digital marketing for retail brands, have a landing page dedicated to that niche, showing your expertise and the results you've achieved for similar clients.
Pay Attention to Data As you move forward, keep track of the data. What industries are converting the most? What types of clients seem most aligned with your offerings? Use this data to further refine and fine-tune your niche. Analytics can give you valuable insights into which markets and strategies are working—and which ones are not.
Iterate Based on Feedback Your niche will evolve as you learn more about your ideal clients. Don’t be afraid to adjust and iterate based on what’s working. The best niches are dynamic and adaptable. If you’re noticing that a particular sector or client type is consistently a great fit, focus more energy there.
Here are a few strategies to help you fine-tune your client niche:
Focus on Specific Industries: Target industries you understand and are passionate about, such as tech startups, healthcare, or e-commerce.
Refine Your Offerings: If you provide a wide range of services, consider narrowing your focus to the services that deliver the most value to a specific client group.
Use Client Demographics: Think about the demographics of your ideal clients—are they early-stage startups? Mid-sized enterprises? Focus on serving a specific size or maturity level of businesses.
Identify Common Challenges: Is there a specific challenge that your business solves? Whether it’s improving brand awareness or streamlining operations, narrowing your niche to solve a particular pain point can help you attract the right clients.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.
Turning the Tide: How We Transformed a Boutique Creative Agency’s Finances
How did we achieve this transformation?
▪ Grounded in Goals: We established clear, actionable goals to steer our strategy.
▪ Clarified Cash Flow & Forecasting: We brought transparency and foresight to their financials.
▪ Established a Profit Model: Built a model that ensured every project contributed to profitability.
▪ Created Efficiencies: Streamlined team structure and offers to boost productivity and reduce waste.
▪ Enhanced Offering Tiers & Pricing: Adjusted pricing and created tiered offerings to ensure all projects were profitable.
▪ Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Eliminated costs that didn’t contribute to growth or efficiency.
In April, Le Chéile began working with a boutique creative agency that had faced a tough start to the year, with losses of around -$30K per month in Q1.
By stepping in as their Fractional CFO and Strategic Advisor, we set the stage for a significant turnaround. Here’s a snapshot of what happened:
📈 By May: They recorded their first profitable month of the year.
📈 By Q4: Their profit margins tripled, reaching five-figure monthly profits, and they easily doubled their revenue.
📈 Since then: They’ve maintained profitability and set themselves up for continued sustainable growth into 2024.
How did we achieve this transformation?
▪ Grounded in Goals: We established clear, actionable goals to steer our strategy.
▪ Clarified Cash Flow & Forecasting: We brought transparency and foresight to their financials.
▪ Established a Profit Model: Built a model that ensured every project contributed to profitability.
▪ Created Efficiencies: Streamlined team structure and offers to boost productivity and reduce waste.
▪ Enhanced Offering Tiers & Pricing: Adjusted pricing and created tiered offerings to ensure all projects were profitable.
▪ Cut Unnecessary Expenses: Eliminated costs that didn’t contribute to growth or efficiency.
Most importantly:
▪ The founder gained confidence in decision-making.
▪ She now leads with poise, growing her team and company sustainably.
▪ She’s in alignment with her goals and has clarity on her finances.
▪ She built a support team to handle responsibilities she wanted to offload.
And the exciting part? We’re just getting started.
The results we achieved are not anomalies. The majority of our clients see significant shifts in revenue, profits, and overall satisfaction in running their businesses. Here’s what the numbers look like:
▪ 93% of clients double their profit and 58% triple it within 6 months.
▪ 427% quarterly profit growth.
▪ 257% increase in profit margins.
▪ 45% revenue growth.
Additionally, our clients:
▪ Gain confidence to act as CEO.
▪ Pay themselves fairly through profit-sharing and bonus structures.
▪ Charge competitive and profitable rates.
If you’re a creative studio or agency founder (especially if you’re LGBTQ, BIPOC, or female) and you’re looking to scale your business from $500K to $1M and beyond, let’s chat. If you need clarity and support to scale sustainably, I’m here to help.
As your Strategic Advisor and Fractional CFO, we’ll work together to tackle your challenges and set you on the path to success.
About the Author
Meredith Fennessy Witts,
Founder & Strategic Growth Advisor at Le Chéile
and Co-Host of Agency Darlings
With a background in financial and operational consulting and a successful track record of founding and scaling her own agency, Meredith brings deep expertise in strategic growth for indie creative and digital agencies.
Her company, Le Chéile, helps agencies scaling toward and beyond 1M+ in revenue to rightsize teams and payroll, increase founder pay, scale offers and packages and more. She helps clients to achieve their goals while clarifying their business strategy and finances.
She is a trusted authority on building mindful, profitable businesses—especially for underserved founders in the women, LGBTQ+, and BIPOC communities.