Today we’d like to introduce you to Susi Walker.
Susi, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have always enjoyed crafty things, but never to a point where I thought it would turn into a business. I used to refinish furniture and quickly realized people wanted to buy my refinished pieces. Although it was fun, it wasn’t very profitable, so I slowly turned that back into a hobby.
One day I saw a glitter tumbler and though I’m sure I can make this for myself. Lots of practice, tutorials and materials and it turned into a tiny business. As I perfected my “tumbler skill” I decided to take a leap of faith and open an Etsy Store. I mean, what’s the worse that can happen, right? Maybe no one will buy any, but maybe they will.
It was a slow start, at times discouraging, but my husband Cary had so much faith in me, he wouldn’t let me give up. He had so much faith, he had a shed built for me and my tumblers. He is definitely my biggest supporter and keeps me going.
Today, almost three years later, I am at almost 1000 sales on Etsy with five-star reviews on every tumbler. I do enjoy local sales very much as well, I love to meet my customers and discuss their ideas in person.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Oh god no, not a smooth road at all. As a small business owner you will find out, there are times when sales come to a halt, you question your ability to make pretty things. The secret is, to keep pushing, keep going and keep making. I used to rely on my friends on Facebook to share my creations, but most people kept scrolling. You have to grow a thick skin and keep going without getting offended or hurt. It’s my business, not anyone else’s responsibility. You get up, make a plan for the day and do it.
We’d love to hear more about your business.
I am a tumbler maker, a Cuptisserista if you will. I decorate and personalize cups and tumblers.
A blank stainless steel tumbler is my canvas, from there I find out what theme, color and decal my customer wants, then the creation begins.
Everyone I know personally, proudly take their tumbler with them everywhere they go.
What sets me apart is that I will help my customers turn their ideas into a beautiful cup, I like to think my customer service skills give my customers a great shopping experience.
What were you like growing up?
I was born and raised in Germany and moved to the US at the age of 23. Never in a million years did I think I would own my own business in a new country. I come from a family of entrepreneurs and painters, so maybe it’s just in my DNA 🙂
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/FiftyShadesofNew1
- Phone: 2147668508
- Email: suecee77@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fiftyshadesofnew/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fiftyshadesofnew1/
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