Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Doug Schwartz, Founder of Detroit Wick & Trip Wipes, located in Detroit, MI, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Our sense of smell is 10,000x more sensitive than any of our other senses, most closely linked to memory and brand recognition. Our focus is based on uniquely joining the company & customer through the most powerful of the five senses — Smell. What we call Scent Branding: A collective approach with like-minded brands. Collaborate + Product Launch + Brand Activation + VIP Gifting + Private Label. Expressed through Scent, Color, and Imprint. Complete with on-site production and manufacturing, right in the heart of Corktown and located across from the iconic Michigan Central Station (Ford Motor Co.), DetroitWick manufactures limited-edition products in full view of visitors. A functional & interactive space that includes a carefully curated boutique, scent branding facility, and production. It’s a rare opportunity to see the entire olfactory experience.
The Blanco equally serves as an event space and a launch pad for creatives. A gallery experience features unique concepts and allows young talent to curate, show, and sell. Our goal is to create an encounter that involves all five senses when you walk through the door. Our scent branding is for anyone and everyone.
Tell us about yourself
I have always had an entrepreneurial mindset. Detroit Wick was born on accident - a happy accident. After breaking some champagne bottles and not knowing what to do with them, I turned them into candles. Suddenly the candles were a hit. Not long after, I realized the scented space lacked the ability to private label. That was when Detroit Wick was born. Everyone wants something custom, and that’s exactly what we do. My two boys are my motivation. Day in and day out, I strive to be the best for them.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment as a business owner is my collaboration with Delta. My second company, Trip Wipes, took off in late 2019 and had been doing incredible. Soon after, we activated an inflight laboratory program with Delta. The program initially launched with Delta at their Atlanta hub. It is truly a blessing - they are now launching a full activation throughout all Delta laboratories. The program is currently in full swing to launch this summer.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
The hardest thing as a business owner is managing. Managing people, time, and expectations for myself and my employees. You have to be on top of everything.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
First, you have to always believe in yourself and push yourself to do your very best. Secondly, you can never give up. No matter how many times you are turned away or told no, you can never give up. Lastly, you have to be consistent.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://www.detroitwick.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/detroitwick/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/detroitwick/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/detroitwick/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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