Today we’d like to introduce you to Tina Stephens.
Hi Tina, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
In 2023, after 18 years of working in communications & development for the public and private sectors, I decided to go back to school to pursue my master’s degree in Strategic Communications. Stepping away from the day-to-day demands of a full-time role while pursuing my master’s degree gave me the unexpected space to reflect on what I truly wanted next—for myself, my family, and my community. I’m incredibly grateful to my husband for his support during that time—it made all the difference in how I show up today in every way.
Halfway through my program, I was in a leadership course where we completed a personality assessment, which became a turning point for me. I wrote a reflection about how self-awareness—understanding my own tendencies, my voice, and how I show up—would shape the kind of leader I wanted to be. One idea really stayed with me: “how you show up matters”. It challenged me to think beyond just doing a job and instead consider the kind of impact I wanted to have on people and the environments I was part of. That’s really where the shift happened for me—I realized I wanted to build something that brought people together, created connection, and allowed everyone to feel seen and valued.
During that time, I also began volunteering with a local nonprofit focused on placemaking, public art, and community activation in downtown Weatherford. Being immersed in that environment—helping create events where people could gather, experience art, and feel connected—is where the idea for The Wild Ivy really started to take shape.
As a mom of five, I also understand firsthand how easy it is for adults to lose touch with their own hobbies and creativity. Life gets busy, and so much of your time is spent pouring into your kids, your work, and everyone else. I wanted to create a space that brought that back—a place where both kids and adults could come, slow down, and make something meaningful.
The Wild Ivy Creative Co. was built on the idea that creativity isn’t just for artists—it’s for everyone. It’s a space where you can pour a candle, paint pottery, play mahjong, or spend intentional time with people you care about doing creative projects. I think people today are craving that more than ever—experiences that feel personal, memorable, and worth their time.
What started as an idea rooted in community and creativity has grown into something that blends both—a studio, a shop, and a gathering place where people can create, connect, and truly be present.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
It definitely hasn’t been a smooth road—but I think that’s the reality of building anything meaningful. There have been a lot of growing pains along the way, especially in learning how to truly listen to what people want versus what I originally envisioned. You start with an idea, but then others help shape what it becomes.
Like most small business owners, I’ve worn every hat—from creative director to cashier to marketing to operations —and that can be both empowering and exhausting. There have also been financial challenges, which are very real when you’re investing in something you believe in and trying to grow it the right way.
But with all of that comes growth. The ups and downs have taught me how to adapt, stay grounded, and keep showing up. Building The Wild Ivy hasn’t been easy, but it’s been worth it. Every challenge has helped shape something better, and I truly believe I’m building something special for my family and this community.
Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
What I do really sits at the intersection of creativity, community, and strategy. Through The Wild Ivy Creative Co., I’ve created a space where people can gather, make something with their hands, and be more intentional with how they spend their time. It’s part creative cafe, part curated shop, and part community hub—and I think what we’re known for is creating experiences that feel meaningful, not transactional.
At the same time, through Revere & Co., a new venture with some of the most amazing women I’ve ever worked with, I’ve found myself stepping into consulting work—helping businesses, organizations, municipalities, and nonprofits think more strategically about growth, customer experience, and community engagement. What’s interesting is that The Wild Ivy has become a living case study. I get to test ideas in real time, understand consumer behavior at a very personal level, and then translate that into insights for others.
Right now, I’m at a crossroads in the best way—where I’m being intentional about choosing projects that align with my values and where I can make the most impact. I’m not just interested in doing more work; I want to do the right work.
What I’m most proud of is building something that resonates with people. Whether it’s someone walking into The Wild Ivy and feeling inspired, or a business gaining clarity through my consulting, I care deeply about creating experiences and connections that matter.
I think what sets me apart is that I don’t just think about ideas—I build them, test them, and refine them in real time. I understand both the creative and the operational side of business, and I genuinely care about the people on the other side of it.
Is there anyone you’d like to thank or give credit to?
Without a doubt, my husband deserves the most credit. Building something like this doesn’t happen in isolation, especially with a large family. He has been incredibly supportive through every stage—encouraging me to take the leap, holding things steady at home, and believing in the vision even when it was still taking shape. That kind of support makes all the difference in how I’m able to show up—not just in the business, but as a wife, mom, and leader.
My kids are also my biggest cheerleaders. They take so much pride in The Wild Ivy, whether it’s bringing their friends in, telling their teachers about it, or sharing it with family. Seeing it through their eyes has been one of the most rewarding parts of this journey. It reminds me why I started—to create something that feels meaningful not just for the community, but for our own family too.
At the end of the day, The Wild Ivy is very much a reflection of a life we’ve built together—balancing family, work, creativity, and connection—and I couldn’t have done it without them.
Pricing:
- Most of our hands-on creative experiences are priced at $29 per person, including pottery painting, candle pouring, and select DIY projects
- Pricing is transparent and all-inclusive—we’re not a “get you in the door and upsell everything” model
- Guests can expect to create a finished, high-quality piece within that price point
- Specialty workshops, events, and private parties may vary depending on the experience
- Our goal is to keep creativity accessible, consistent, and worth coming back for
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thewildivycreativeco.com
- Instagram: @thewildivycreativeco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568616771567
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tmstephens/
