Happy Friday!
This month’s feature is Nee Nee’s Creations. I’m especially proud to feature this small business, as the owner is a fellow Grenadian and a super talented, former high school classmate. Let’s learn more about “Nee Nee’s Creations”
1) Please introduce yourself. What would you like the readers to know about you?
Hi, I am Niasha Keens-Douglas. I am from Grenada but I reside in London. I am married and a mother to two beautiful daughters. I love to make things with my hands, especially Craft and Baking . I design and make jewelry, I crochet and knit, and I enjoy doing West Indian catering, all with a touch of Grenadian flair.
2) Tell us about NeeNee Creations. What/who was the inspiration behind it? How did it get started?
I did some jewelry making classes a few years ago and I have always liked crocheting since I was about 8 years old. I was taught by my mother at very early age. I started of by making colorful pieces for my daughters and myself because I found the crafted items in the stores to be too plain and unimaginative. However, friends and family in my church and community started inquiring about the pieces and requesting that I make items for them.
I guess it spread by word of mouth, and now I have started taking orders. Based on the response, I felt that I could turn something I love into a career. I came up with a name after brainstorming with my family, and put pictures of my items on the web, and here I am. I am learning new styles and pieces everyday, and I spend my days and most nights crocheting and making jewelry. I have just started to display my handiwork at craft fairs.
3) What items do you currently offer? Who is your target market?
Since I started off my business in the winter I began by making scarfs, hats, snoods and colorful jewelry to brighten the winter wear. With summer approaching, I have branched off into bags and a whole range of baby wear and blankets.
My target market is anyone who appreciates quality hand crafted items and the time and effort it took to make them. I’m targeting anyone who is looking for unique and individual items or items made to order,that are well finished and one of a kind.
4) What distinguishes NeeNee’s Creations from its competitors?
My items are crafted with love and care, and are classy and extremely well finished. They can be made to order and to suit individual taste, and they all have my personal touch which makes them unique and special. No two items are the same.
5) What is your vision for NeeNee’s Creations? Where would you like the business to be in 5 years?
My plan is to continue to grow my business into an established brand, and provide quality products to a wide and loyal customer base. I want there to be so much demand for my product that people start placing orders 3 months in advance. In 5 years, I’d love to have a little café of my own where I can merge my love for baking with my craft. A place where like-minded people can come to buy products, meet and share their love of craft.
6) What is the biggest lesson you’ve learnt as an entrepreneur? What advice would you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
Networking is key, it’s not what you know but who you know. I always walk with business cards because you must never lose a marketing opportunity. Be prepared to talk about your business and sell your self. Lastly set your targets and never give up.
7) Where can we purchase your creations?
I am currently accepting orders via my Facebook page: NeeNee’s Creations
Orders can also be emailed to neeneescreations@outlook.com or via telephone: 07508113923
If you would like to be a First Friday Feature, please drop me a line at thehodgepodgefiles@gmail.com
Until next time
