Today we’d like to introduce you to Tricia Wilcox.
Hi Tricia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started my business back in 2016 in a 1976 camper that I renovated into a rolling retail shop! I hitched it up to my rusty old pick-up and popped up at craft shows, concerts, and private events. I traveled all over Michigan until I finally found the perfect building in Ferndale for Whimsical Wit to call home. The Ferndale shop is in a small, old warehouse right on Hilton Rd. It has been an incredible space to grow the business and host creative workshops and events. Last May, I had the opportunity to open a second shop downtown Boyne City, and I had to jump on it! The community support at both locations has been incredible, and it’s been really fun to see this little corner of Ferndale grow. I am now working on building a more “whimsical” online store!
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Oh man. Certainly not a smooth road, more like a rollercoaster that’s got a few screws loose and is missing entire sections of track. Getting started is intimidating, but that’s also the really fun part! My biggest challenges have been learning to balance all of the roles a business owner has to fill, learning to delegate tasks as you grow, financials, and (of course) unexpected world-altering events such as COVID. I always say if you want to start a business, make sure you are doing something that you absolutely love. All that being said, I still wouldn’t change my profession for the world. Running Whimsical Wit has been the most difficult and exciting adventure I’ve ever had. I am so proud of how the business has grown, and I am excited to see what the future holds!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
Whimsical Wit started as a little home and gift shop in a tiny traveling camper, but it has grown into more than I could have ever imagined. Since opening the first brick-and-mortar, we have been able to offer creative workshops and classes, community events, small concerts, and our newly founded Whimsical Women’s group! Personally, I think that the products we carry really set us apart. I really pride myself of finding products that are not only beautiful but unique and ethically sourced. But what I am truly the most proud of is the atmosphere that we created in the shops. I love watching people come in, slow down, and relax. You really do feel a sense of calm when you walk through the doors. It’s a very magical space!
How can people work with you, collaborate with you, or support you?
Shopping small, sharing on socials, and leaving kind reviews are the best ways to support us and any of your other favorite locally owned establishments! The best way to reach me for collaborations is via email at whimsicalwitcreations@gmail.com
Contact Info:
- Email: whimsicalwitcreations@gmail.com
- Website: https://www.whimsicalwit.com/
- Instagram: @whimsicalwitllc
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whimsicalwit
Image Credits
Brittney Holt
