Creativity Warehouse - Tommie Kuykendall
Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in arts and craft but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Tommie Kuykendall, owner of Creativity Warehouse, located in Albuquerque, NM, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Creativity Warehouse is an arts and craft learning center for all ages and abilities. I believe that so many people think they have no talent or creativity around art, and my goal is to prove them wrong. It is important to help people understand that talent does not mean you can do it perfectly right away but that you have an interest and desire to learn.
Tell us about yourself
I got into pottery about 20 years ago as a continuing education class, and I fell in love. I was always sad that the studio I worked at didn't have many kids at the studio. I really wanted to have a clean, safe, and encouraging environment for all ages.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
Staying open during COVID. We opened only five months before that all started, so I had to find ways to keep people engaged with what we could do as we opened up more. We offered take-home kits and just kept in touch.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
Trying not to do everything and remembering to take breaks for yourself. When you are doing something you are passionate about, it is easy to get caught up in everything being "perfect" and not paying attention to yourself. Asking for help is okay.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
Create a business plan and update it. You don't have to have everything new and shiny to start. Meet with a financial advisor, so you really know what you have financially to give. Make sure you have fun and love what you are doing!
Is there anything else you'd like to share?
There will always be challenges seen and unforeseen, but make sure you know your limits and have an exit plan. We all want to succeed, but knowing that if it does not work out, you have a plan and will be okay, it will allow you to take risks when needed as your business grows.
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://creativitywarehouse.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CreativityWarehouseFun/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creativity.warehouse/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solopreneur that you'd like to share, then email community@subkit.com; we'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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