Today we’d like to introduce you to Heather TenHarmsel.
Hi Heather, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
The Poppy Peach, LLC. was created in 2018 by designer and founder Heather TenHarmsel. Heather has a degree in healthcare and started creating leather earrings when she realized there was a need for lightweight statement pieces for everyday wear. Our earrings are made from only the highest quality materials, such as genuine leather, hardwoods and nickel-free metals. Heather started a wholesale business, selling earrings to other stores. After this, she decided to open her own boutique in Holland, Michigan off of Lakewood Blvd. This was in 2019 right at the start of COVID, which many know, was a struggle for small businesses and a depressing time. Heather got creative by focusing on custom orders and also wanted to bring smiles and laughs to everyone. This is where The Poppy Peach evolved into carrying witty and sassy items! After two years of being open on Lakewood Blvd, The Poppy Peach moved Downtown Holland on 8th street. We did an extensive build out to make the space our own. We carry our handmade earrings (along with other handmade items), women’s clothing, witty gifts and so much more!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
N0 – touched base on this in the previous blurp too (sorry!)
COVID was a tough time because we just opened right before that. I had to get creative and do custom orders, porch drop offs and really focus on marketing myself and why my brand was unique. We were mandated to close, like many businesses were as we were deemed non essential. We did survive and perservere though!
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I specialize in our handmade earrings, bookmarks, keychains, magnets, shirts and more. I, Heather, hand make all of these items on my own.
I am most proud of our handmade earrings as that is how my whole business began. I work hard on hand painting, distressing, sealing them and more.
I am always coming up with new ideas and items you can’t get anywhere and everywhere. I also focus on ensuring our items longevity instead of something just being a fad.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
I would say adaptability, confidence and persistance. Adaptability as things are always evolving, changing and we are constantly responding to new challenges. Confidence because I believe in myself, my abilities and need to show confidence when networking/ engaging with others. Persistance because I am always striving to meet new goals and keep moving forward even if there is a set back.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.thepoppypeach.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepoppypeach
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ThePoppyPeachLLC/
- Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thepoppypeach
