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

Hi Jessica, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
Sidney and I met in high school and have always enjoyed crafting as a hobby. As we began expanding our crafting, we noticed there was not an option to purchase craft vinyl or supplies in the city of Detroit. When completing projects, we were forced to go to a big box store or order online. This shopping experience was not personal and many people working in the big box stores are not crafters, making it difficult to bounce ideas off of another person. We decided to open a store to provide a personal shopping experience with other crafters. All of our employees are crafters themselves and enjoy helping our customers find the best products and techniques to complete their projects.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have always enjoyed crafting but saw it as a hobby. I worked for a large insurance company for 15 years but after DTown Vinyl was open for one year I took the leap and left my corporate career. It was scary but I had faith that my dream of providing a service to other crafters in my community would be successful. I am also proud that all of the staff at DTown Vinyl started as customers who have a passion for creating which allows for a level of customer service you won’t receive at any other supply store.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I love how Detroit is making a comeback and has a wide range of activities available. I like to support black businesses as much as possible, some of my favorites for nightlife are: High Society, Mix Lounge, Locker Room, Sandbox and Dbo’s. The Riverwalk downtown and Campus Martius are fun places to people watch and enjoy the Detroit Skyline. Cooper Hawk in Troy is one of my favorite restaurants and I am a member of their monthly wine club. Nuggets dispensary for those who like to indulge is a great place to purchase adult recreational supplies. If we had a day or two to explore, I would take the drive to Petosky or Holland to see some of the beautiful parts of Michigan.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
We would like to thank ourselves, and our customers. We opened a brick-and-mortar store in August of 2020, during the height of the pandemic, and we have continued to grow. Our dedication to the craft and the support of our customers has made DTown Vinyl a success in the community and we look forward to what the future holds for us. Our customers push us to try new technology and allow us to use our creativity on a daily basis.

Website: Dtownvinyl.com

Instagram: Dtownvinyl

Facebook: Dtownvinyl

Yelp: Dtown Vinyl

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMichigan is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.