Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Emi Tachibana, Founder of Riverside Wrapping Co., located in New York, NY, USA.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

I'm a certified Gift Wrapping Coordinator who provides clean, beautiful and down-to-details gift wrapping. I also make earrings and small accessories using the same material, Mizuhiki (Traditional Japanese paper cords), which I use for wrappings as well. My customers are fashion, beauty brands, and everyone who loves and appreciate the uniqueness of Mizuhiki accessories.

Tell us about yourself

Born in China and raised in Tokyo, I moved to New York City in 2016. I had worked for almost a decade at Japan's legendary Imperial Hotel Tokyo as a top International Salesperson but was looking for something new. In the summer of 2022, I decided to start my own gift-wrapping business after contemplating my next career move. It's always been a favorite pastime of mine, and after learning traditional Japanese techniques, I loved it even more. Making accessories with the same materials I use for wrapping allows me to combine the style, materials, and beauty of my multicultural background with the more modern aesthetic of my new home, New York City.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

My biggest accomplishment is to put a smile on every customer with my service or products and keep passing that on to others who receive my service or products from my customer.

What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?

The hardest thing to do being a solo and small business owner is to do every little thing yourself while keeping the business going.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Believe in yourself.
  2. Do what makes you happy.
  3. Keep open-minded.

Is there anything else you'd like to share?

Mark your calendar for my holiday pop-ups 🎅🎁🎄

✨Sat 12/3 12 pm - 5:30 pm
@colored.colors Hudson Yards

✨Sun 12/4 12 pm - 6 pm
@japaneseartistpopupshop East Village

✨Sat 12/10 12 pm - 6 pm
Japan Village Brooklyn 2nd Floor
@japaneseartistpopupshop@japanvillagebrooklyn@theloftjv@industrycity

✨Sun 12/11 12 pm - 8 pm
@mikabushwick@upstairsatnyc

DM me to pre-order and pick it up at my pop-up shop 🎁

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://www.riversidewrapping.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/riversidewrappingco/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/riversidewrappingco/

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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