Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Barber.
Hi Emily, 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?
Grew up in an entrepreneur family, Went to college for business, graduated with my MBA in the hopes of operating a small business. That opportunity arose and i was able to not only operate several small businesses, but open my own in 2018. unfortunately COVID pandemic hit and we were ordered to close. At this time an opportunity arose to sell my building- so we did. This led to working for the Small Business Administration. I eventurally was presented with an opportunity to purchase my mother business. I now own Three Fires Company LLC located in Roscommon MI. I have two tore fronts, White Pine and Petals- Floral and gift shop- small destination store located in the heart of the Village of Roscommon., The other Store is Addie Beth’s- clothing boutique also located in the heart of Village of Roscommon. I also Own and operated Rosco’s Coney Island- located in the heart of Village of Roscommon. I also operate a small private event space in Downtown Roscommon (perfect venue for small gatherings and celebrations) I am currently working on erecting a new sports bar in the hear tof Roscommon as well. I am mother to two amazing daughters, two psuedo daughters, and a fur momma to our dog and cat. I work hard, prioritize tasks and delegate when appropriate.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
No, nothing about small business ownership that is smooth. Obstacles range. The biggest are the location of Roscommon is supported heavily in the summer months by tourism. This makes winter months hard to survive and require a lot of planning, a lot of saving and strategic thinking. Outside of the tourism, there is the increased in cost of living- economics play a huge role in how people spend and that they choose to spend on. All of these factors play a role in the success of a small business. We rely on local shopping, word of mouth and take pride in what we offer and do to continue the positive feedback and word of mouth. We do have to get creative and be flexible to meet the needs of our customers and our community. Other struggles are life in general- being one person, relying on others to help, delegate tasks and making sure they are completed accordingly. Life obstacles come up and definitely impact the road being traveled as well.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about White Pine and Petals/Addie Beth’s/Rosco’s Coney Island?
White Pine and Petals: Local Florist that specializes in weddings and events. the store includes fresh cut florals, plants and unique gifts. We promote working with local floral farmers when applicable, we strive to promote an experience when visiting us. Offer a space for local vendors to provide their items to be purchased as well.
Addie Beth’s: Clothing boutique that strives to provide affordable, stylish clothing, also support local clothing vendors by providing a space for them to sell their products.
Rosco’s Coney Island: Traditional coney island style restaurant located inside the Village Vault (multi business building) that offers traditional style coney island menu items: Coney dogs (detroit, Flint, Chicago style and smash burgers are what we are known for)
Do you have recommendations for books, apps, blogs, etc?
A lot of reading, online research, and experience/ speaking with other business owners in the area help. Along with the ability to work together and promote each-other!
Contact Info:
- Website: whitepineandpetals.com and roscosconey.com
- Facebook: whitepineandpetals Roscosconey addiebeths
