Work

Name: Tamie Collins

Hometown: I’m originally from Henderson, MN, now I live in Waseca, MN with my family.

Business: Zinnias – The Unique Boutique

231 West Elm Ave

Waseca, MN 56093

Title: Owner

Zinnias is a home decor boutique located in the renovated Minneapolis/St. Louis train depot in Waseca, Minnesota. Inside her store, Tamie offers home decor, jewelry, candles, perfume, kitchen items and many other gifts.

When did you first become interested in starting this business?
About five years ago, I had worked in a small store in Blue Earth and really enjoyed it, and since that time I always had a strong interest in opening my own store.

When did you start the business?
I opened Zinnias in October of 2007.

Was this your childhood dream?
No, not really. I’m an elementary teacher by trade. When I was growing up I had my own “pretend” classroom in the basement of my home. I spent hours playing “school.”

Who has been your greatest mentor and why?
My husband Tim. He has been there with me every step of the way. He encouraged me to create Zinnias knowing it was something I really wanted to do. He keeps me positive during slow times, and is always willing to help out when needed. When we renovated the depot Tim actually did the majority of the work. He is one of the most dedicated, hard working, people I know. Zinnias for sure would not have happened with his support.

What is the best business advice anyone has ever given you?
Your customers like to see you. That it is important to be visible both at the store and out in the community.

What advice do you have for anyone starting a business?
Work hard and provide a great service to your customers.

What makes your business enjoyable for you?
I have really enjoyed meeting and talking with a variety of people. Going to market and searching for those items that people will love and keeping up with the trends in home décor.

Is there anything you would change about it?
Not necessarily change, but possibly at some point add fresh florals or maybe clothing.

What sets your business apart from the competition?
I would describe Zinnias as a boutique that carries those unique gift ideas along with the latest trend in jewelry, home décor and decorating ideas.

The best part about my job is…
Meeting new people and attending the trade shows.

The worst part about my job is…
Trying to keep within my budget when I go to buy for the store.

My long term goal is…
I’ve always been interested in floral and floral design and have considered bringing fresh “non-traditional” florals to Zinnias.

The biggest obstacles have been …
The ECONOMY and trying to figure out where to put my advertising dollars.

Is there anything that would help others prepare for your line of work?
I think to own a retail store it truly has be your passion. In starting out in a small business it is pretty much YOU! It’s a really big time commitment.

Where would you like to be in five years?
That’s a tough one….I’m not sure what the future will bring, I’m definitely a day to day person.