Tell us about your small business, what type of products do you offer?
It all began with the introduction of a Cricut machine. Burntwood Solutions emerged from the frustration of a passionate crafter who struggled to find readily available crafting supplies. Our journey started modestly, focusing on tumblers and vinyl. As word spread and our reputation grew, we expanded our offerings, incorporating sublimation items, a variety of tumblers, and essential vinyl tools.
In 2021, a significant milestone was achieved through a strategic partnership with Mr. Nola's, introducing their epoxy to the Canadian market. This collaboration not only boosted our presence in the USA but also paved the way for an expanded product range from Mr. Nola's.
The year 2022 marked a substantial advancement as we invested in a wide-format commercial UV printer, enabling us to produce our own patterned vinyl and decals. This bold move proved to be highly successful, with the introduction of specialty lines, starting with the immensely popular holographic vinyl. The trend gained rapid industry recognition, propelling our name to global prominence through the power of social media. Consequently, we expanded our shipping services to include Australia, although challenges persist with shipping to other countries.
How do you stay connected with your customers and maintain strong relationships with them?
To enhance our visibility, I actively share content on Facebook, TikTok, and, to a somewhat lesser extent, Instagram (admittedly, the latter is a bit beyond my comfort zone). My primary focus remains on our Facebook group, where I strive to engage with our community, leveraging my expertise in the platform.
Throughout this journey, I've fostered incredible relationships with customers, many of whom have evolved into remarkable friendships, forming a daily dialogue that extends beyond the realm of business.
What advice would you give to someone considering starting their own small business based on your experiences?
Here's some advice for those embarking on their own small business journey: Take the plunge, but be prepared for the substantial effort required to achieve success. Delve into market research, establish a thorough budget, and craft a comprehensive plan. Familiarize yourself with your products or services, identify reliable sources, and prioritize quality by examining samples. As a business owner, you'll wear numerous hats—shipping, receiving, bookkeeping, procurement, accounts payable, marketing, sales, customer service, and more.
Where can our glitter lovers connect with you?
https://www.instagram.com/burntwoodsolutions/
https://www.facebook.com/groups/burntwoodsolutions/
https://www.tiktok.com/@burntwoodsolutions
https://burntwoodsolutions.com/
What is your favourite CGC glitter or product?
For those eyeing Must-Have Glitters from Chunky Glitter Company, anything holographic is a must, especially the one bearing my name, Mandi. There's an enduring allure to holographic elements that has always resonated with me!
