Check Her Out: Meredith Singleton with Squirrels Nest Creations!

What exactly is your business? We sell custom, handmade wreaths and floral designs and offer wreath-making classes.

How did you come up with your business idea? My mother and I had always used getting together and getting crafting as a way to get away from the craziness of life. In 2012, we decided to start selling our items on Etsy. When some friends asked us how to make a wreath, we decided to share the opportunity to get together and get crafty with women all over the tri-state.

How did you find out about Aviatra? In the winter, I ran a pop-up shop at Crafts & Vines and heard about the program from two alums. We knew this would be a great way for us to learn how to take our business to the next level.

What is your inspiration? We are inspired by the idea that everyone should be able to afford something pretty for their home. So many times we’d be at a craft show or home decor event and saw something we wanted. But, we felt like it was too expensive for the quality. We started from the beginning to sell beautiful items that we loved at a price that people could afford. It’s one of the things we hear often and that we’re proud of.

What has been your biggest accomplishment with your business so far?  We are most excited that we are part of the Launch program and on the cusp of expanding our business to a brick and mortar store/workshop and expanding our wreath-making crew.

What was the most valuable thing you’ve gained from your experience with Aviatra? The connections with and insights from other entrepreneurs and professionals has been invaluable. The link to the Small Business Development office has been an amazing resource!

What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced while working to start your business? Understanding how to navigate the technicalities of running a business (taxes, legalities, etc.) have been the hardest to navigate, but the resources through Aviatra are already helping us with those tricky parts.

Where do you hope to be in 5 years? We hope to have a flagship store and workshop in NKY with a crew of Wine & Wreaths reps running wreath-making classes across the region and beyond.

Any advice for future Aviatras? Take advantage of every opportunity provided to you. You’re becoming part of an amazing network that will help you far beyond just the classes!