Meet Tami Saffell | Wick Street Vinyl

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tami Saffell and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tami, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I am not sure there was a solid thought process at first. I just knew there had to be a better solution than always buying materials to craft with online or in the big box stores. Neither offers guidance on materials or help with projects. Basically, we are left to “hope” we bought the right materials for the job. I wanted to be a more solid sounding board for crafters. Help the beginners or newbies layout projects. Show them how to make the most of their design space to limit over buying. In the long wrong, educate them but also help them save money. At the end of the day, most individuals do this to have a little side money for vacations, sports fees or to help make their paycheck go a little farther. That was my end goal, help crafters keep as much money in their pockets as possible but still have knowledge and fun at the same time.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
They say run your own business it will be fun!!! What they don’t tell you is, it takes time, time and more time!!! Plus the dedication to grow and promote yourself!!! I feel we are unique in the fact for a few reasons. We offer individual attention for crafters who are new and out of their element. Material can be bought in smaller quantities or larger depending on your need. There is no need to over buy for a small design. Lastly, all of our items are tested and used by me. I can show you how to apply materials or use them in a project. I love to see the light in crafters eyes when the idea starts brewing and its comes to life!!

I was completely a business novice when I opened! I had no idea what I was doing. All I know is that I had an idea to make it easier for crafters to buy materials and get help without being overpriced. I have learned a lot in almost 8 years. Learning cost of goods, profit margins and monitoring trends. It all goes hand in hand. I have had to learn to balance, work, hubby and life. That was probably the hardest part. I am always trying to keep everyone happy!!

I would love everyone to know what keeps us apart from the big box stores in the vibe of the shop. We consider you our family. We laught with you. We cry with you. We mourn with you!! And most importantly, we support you!! Just like you have supported us! Crafting and creating is what we do and we love it!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I like to do a lot of small town stuff. Support local restaurants that are not chains. So for me, I would plan a road trip with those thoughts in mind. Probably would start with a nice hike after we arrive. Followed by an amazing lunch. Stroll the small downtown and shop. Follow up with a little dinner and drinks. I can’t say what shops or restaurants that may be but thats would I would plan if a friend was visiting!! Michigan is huge and has so many hidden gems!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My biggest supporters have been my family and closest friends. Starting a business not only takes capital but the knowledge to run through all the hoops to acquire your LLC and your EIN. But, even at that I couldn’t do it alone. There is the website maintenance and social media. My husband was a huge backer for me. He lent me the money to build the dream I knew I could grow. My very close friend Debbie navigated all the ins and outs of my LLC and EIN. Not only to put them in place but the hours on the phone which I didn’t have to make sure it was all accurate. My sister was a hug component in building the website. She spent many days along with my husband to create each listing and description. My kids help me run the shop. Alex and Jeff are amazing!! They are knowledgeable in their products and can help new crafters lay out their designs. I do most of the social media. This whole business isn’t just about me, its about all of us!! We are constantly learning and changing with the trends!

Website: wickstreetvinyl.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wickstreetvinyl

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wickstreetvinyl

Other: TikTok Tami Saffell @wickstreetvinyl