We are all in the middle of practicing physical distancing, and while this time is very challenging for everyone right now, it is especially difficult for small businesses. Small businesses are the backbone of our economy and we need to support them however we can, so every week we will be featuring some of our local small businesses.
RedHead Expressions is our third business that we are featuring for Small Business Sundays.
What Made You Choose This Type of Business?
I love seeing others creativity and being given the opportunity to bring that idea to life. I grew up with a passion for making all things crafty. My Mom is very crafty and I always loved helping her with her projects. I started selling cards at the local farmers market, but then I discovered vinyl and found a new passion! I created many things with vinyl for quite a few years before deciding to grow my business. I was inspired by all the full colour, high detail, images! After months of researching, and following Sublimation Facebook groups, I took the plunge and purchased a Sublimation printer in the fall of 2019. I have such a passion for helping others in any way that I can, so I combined that with my love of crafts. And here we are today, I get the pleasure of bringing all of your ideas and Expressions to life!
What Is Your Favourite Small Business (aside from your own)?
I absolutely love supporting all moms with small businesses. I find them all to be so creative and resourceful in their own ways, if anyone can make it work, it’s a mom on a mission! My favourite; however, is definitely The Play Cafe, It’s located right here in Spruce Grove and started by two mom’s. They have a ton of toys, lots of seating and great snacks and beverages! They have only been open for about six months and I hope that they’ll be around for many years to come. Shortly before they were forced to close due to Covid-19, they had announced that they were going to have a small retail section where Moms who have small businesses could sell their items. I strongly support the practice of supporting others so we can succeed together.
If You Had One Piece Of Advice To Someone Just Starting Out, What Would It Be?
Spend lots of time learning and educating yourself before purchasing all of the equipment/supplies. You need to know the pros and cons before deciding if something is right for you. It also gives you a chance to learn awesome tips from others mistakes/learning lessons so you don’t make them yourself. Once you decide that you want to do something, just do it, don’t look back, and have no regrets.
What Are Your Long-Term Business Goals?
I want to create quality items that keep my customers coming back for more and telling their friends! I want to keep doing this until I’m so bust that my husband doesn’t have to go to workout of town. I’d love to be able to move out of my basement shop and into a retail location where others can sell their items, and where I’ll be making and selling my orders from as well.
What Is Your Funniest/Weirdest/Most Memorable Experience With A Customer or Client?
This one particular order I will never forget. I was asked to put what I thought was just a funny quote on a tea towel. “De Ja Brew: slowly remembering things you did while you were drunk”. When the customer picked up the tea towels, she had told me a tragic story of her niece, Deja, that brought tears to my eyes and ended in a heartfelt hug with a customer, and I am not a hugger! I’m not going to share specifics as it’s not my story to tell, but please take this as a reminder that what appears to be on thing may not be. Be kind to one another.
You can find RedHead Expressions on Facebook here or on Instagram here.
Thank you to Jodi from RedHead Expressions for participating in Small Business Sunday!
