The reading level for this article is Novice
VickiElam
Northwest Wraps | northwestwraps@yahoo.com | Owner | 09/04/2002 | Sole Proprietor
Vicki D. Elam is the founder and owner of Northwest Wraps##comma## a custom candy wrap manufacturer based in Klamath Falls##comma## Oregon
What kind of training or education did you acquire before your venture?
I##aps##ve been an Entrepreneur most of my life. I have owned 2 previous businesses along with my current one. I##aps##m a creative person##comma## love the outdoors and have always maintained a good attitude in Life. I feel that##aps##s the key to success.
What services or products does your organization offer?
I design Custom Candy Wrappers for any Occasion. I live in beautiful Klamath Falls Oregon.
What type of business or organization do you operate?
Being married to a CPA##comma## he makes sure everything is structured the right way. I choose this business to express my creativity and to offer my customers something unique!
How many employees do you currently have?
Just me!
How did you originally discover the idea for your organization?
I don##aps##t think that applies to me.
How did you originally fund your organization?
Personal funds
Are you the founder of your organization?
Yes
Do you believe there is any distinct culture within your organization? If so, please describe it.
I don##aps##t believe it does at this point in time.
What obstacles or challenges have you faced in your organization?
Advertising and Marketing have been the hardest areas for me. I don##aps##t have much experience in either##comma## so it##aps##s been a real challenge.
Did you accept any advice along the way? Do you believe new organizations should be open to such advice?
Very Important##comma## as I speak from experience on that issue.
Did you receive any help along the way from other businesses or organizations? If so, how and from whom?
I have gained alot of insight and information from ideacafe.com and bizymoms.com
What have been the keys to success in your business? What do you believe are the keys to success?
Hard work##comma## great service and following thru with what you promise your customers.
What kind of relationship do you establish with your customers or clients?
By designing wrappers that no one else does and always giving my customers the best I can give!
What types of marketing do you employ?
Local newspaper Ads##comma## ideacafe.com and mailing lists.
Do you employ any web or online marketing?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
What role does trust play in business or in your organization?
Yes##comma## I##aps##ve made my share. I could have had a better business plan and more funds to get this really going.
Did you struggle with starting your own organization or venture? Why did you decide to begin on your own?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
What books or resources would you recommend for individuals starting off now?
I can##aps##t really recommend any books as I##aps##ve never used them. My knowledge has come from hands on and ideacafe and bizymoms.
Do you notice any trends in the marketplace? If so, what are they?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
Do you believe networking and contacts are important? If so, how?
Very Important##comma## without it##comma## I don##aps##t believe one could succeed.
What do you think about contracts and other legal obligations? Are they important in your business?
Note: Question not yet added at time of interview.
If there is one thing that would sum up your advice to new entrepreneurs, what would it be?
Know your product or service inside and out. And offer only the best!
What, if any, final advice do you have for new entrepreneurs?
Follow thru with your dreams and never let anyone make you doubt yourself. Believe in what you do and do it with passion!
