Entrepreneur Interview: Tina Wick of Greenpurse

Business Name:
Greenpurse

Website URL:
gpurse.com

Year Founded:
2007

What does your company do?

We design and create purses, bags, accessories, home decor, costume jewelry, etc. from rescued, reclaimed, recycled and vintage materials.

Was there a specific turning point when you realized your business was moving to the next level?

I’m not sure we have moved to the next level as of yet and I’m not sure what I want the next level to be. I own another business and don’t want to be overwhelmed.

What processes or procedures have you implemented that have helped grow your company?
Certainly social networking. It has really changed the face of PR and it will be interesting to see where we go from here. Charitable giving has also helped us get recognized and opened the door to new business.

What is most rewarding about running your business?

I don’t think there is an adult on the planet who doesn’t want to be in control and call the shots. Having a business allows you to do what you want…even if it’s not a good idea, you as the owner, still have the option.

What challenges have you faced and how have you overcome them?
There are new challenges every day. With having and on line store and the Internet as big as it is, it’s hard to be recognized. Social networking has helped and we continue to seek out new ways of standing out in our field.

If you were starting over today, what would you do differently?
I don’t think I would do much if anything different. I following my passion and in that you can never go wrong.

What advice do you have for other business owners?
Do your homework. Research the need for your particular service and where you might set up shop. Check out financing and grants and talk with entrepreneurs who have been there!

Please list any favorite books, tools or resources (software, website, etc.) you would recommend for others:
Scott the Name Tag Guy via the Internet and Mike Michalowicz, the Toilet Paper Entrepreneur.

What is something that people might be surprised to learn about you?
The people who know me wouldn’t be surprised by anything. I’m open, honest and quite regimented. Individuals who do not know me might be surprised that I made my first purse when I was 13 years old and sold it for $7.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
I was certain when I pulled up your form, part of the interview would have to do with income/profits. Had that been the case, I would have forgone the process. I think society puts way to much emphasis on money being the only way a person can be successful and not enough on integrity, honesty and just plain being happy in the work we do.