Entrepreneurial Women: Cathy Wagner of One Stop Internet Business Services

An Interview

Some would say Cathy Wagner has her head in the clouds and they would be right. Working from her home office, situated in the beautiful San Juan mountains of southwest Colorado, Wagner has an expansive view that stimulates all of her senses.

Wagner is an energetic entrepreneur, wife, and mother of two who runs a successful internet business. Wagner begins by stating, "If someone had told me fifteen years ago, I would be living in the mountains and operating a successful business from home, I never would have believed them." Wagner flashes a smile that lights up the room as she walks toward her office window. "The mountain views are spectacular and have given me a better perspective on how expansive our world really is."

Life hasn't always been sweet smelling sage and mountain vistas for this successful entrepreneur. Originally from Philadelphia, Wagner began working in her teenage years and spent most of her twenties exploring various career opportunities.

"I believe variety is the spice of life. I have worked as a movie theatre projectionist, bartender, and massage therapist," proclaims Wagner. "I love a good challenge and enjoy taking on totally new things and learning new skills. When I was 25, I sold historical letters and envelopes to collectors. The job was way outside my comfort zone, but I became very good at it and was invited to relocate to central Colorado when the owner decided to move. In fact, that job provided me with the confidence to start my own business."

Wagner met her husband, Mark, in 1995. Seven months later they were married. Wagner and her husband returned to Philadelphia in 1998, after she became pregnant with their first child.

"We wanted to be near my family when the baby arrived, so we packed our belongings and headed east," states Wagner. "My twin sister had been working from home designing graphics and creating business presentations. I began working with her on a part-time basis, while I stayed home with my new baby." Wagner beams as she points to a picture of her daughter.