We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Shivonne Cole a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Shivonne, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s talk about social media – do you manage your own or do you have someone or a company that handles it for you? Why did you make the choice you did?

I have been in business for 2 years and it has been difficult completing everything on my own. When you’re running a business you’re customer service, IT, marketing team, inventory, janitor, photographer, sales person etc. It definitely takes a toll on your body. It has become overwhelming but I know one day I will be able to hire at least an assistant. Having someone assist with my everyday task will be such a great help instead of trying to do everything myself.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

My name is Shivonne Cole and I am the owner of Queen Cole Customs. This company was established in 2020 during a major pandemic when I had to dig deep down into my gift. I’ve always been a crafty person and an ambassador for customer service. Putting these two together, has enabled me to produce premium quality products that my customers have grown to love. I love to craft, its my passion.

I create custom cups and tumblers that turn ordinary occasions into unforgettable celebrations. I cater to everyone interested in standing out but my Target audience are girl trips, business events, weddings, bridal parties, baby showers etc.

The problems my business solves
– the products in the market don’t keep beverages hot/cold in the cups
– not customized to fit the client’s needs
– lack of attention to detail
– custom service not up to par
– gifts are ordinary

My solution is
We offer high-quality custom cups & personalized stationery. We take
pride in being detailed & unique. Each one of our products is custom
made to be the perfect gift for our clients & their loved ones. We take
our time to discuss the client’s desires to ensure that they love their
cup/product! Customer service is our #1 priority because we know that
customers become our walking billboards when their love the experience & products they get from QCC.

I am proud of my hard work and dedication as a business owner. They’re have been many frustrating and trying times but I see the bigger picture for my business. I would love for my business to become a household name and have a storefront in the future.

My customers and support team have been nothing but supportive and amazing. They keep me going on days when I want to throw in the towel. Strangers have been so motivational for me and I am forever grateful. It warms my heart.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

I have always been a DIY person I always want to try things for myself to try and save money. I am the person everyone calls when they need something created or put together. They know I will be detailed and the final project will be what they expected and more.

Once I got laid off from my full time corporate job I was doing more and more DIY projects. I started creating t shirts and then that led to creating wine glasses then that led to tumblers. Everyone told me that I should open a business and start selling these items and I was too scared to start the process. I didn’t want all the responsibility and work that came with it but when you love what you do its not bad. I truly love what I do and I am so happy that I kept it going. I know if i continue to stay focused and determined that this business can take me far beyond what I dreamed of.

Can you share one of your favorite marketing or sales stories?

I believe in investing in your business. I’m all for it. Since I’ve been in business I have been using my savings account and personal credit card to fund my business when things come arise. In 2019 I decided to participate in a networking event with over 100 people and celebrities. I just knew being a part of this would be life changing, it was going to be huge and I wanted my business to receive brand recognition so I decided to sign up for their sponsorship program. I had to make 150 custom wine glasses plus ship them which was $400 to ship (2nd day air). The VIP tickets were $750 a piece (I bought 2 tickets), paid for a rental, gas, food, hotel. I am using my personal credit card for all of this. I arrived at the event and my custom wine glasses were displayed and I was so proud and happy. Everyone loved them and at the end of the event I wasn’t even mentioned or recognized as a sponsor. My business cards were taking out of the cups and probably thrown in the trash. I left there with no reimbursement and no sales. Not even a high five. That really messed with my mind but their were a lot of lessons in this. 1. Make sure a contract is signed before I participate in anymore sponsorship programs 2. Make sure my business cards or business is displayed 3. Don’t use my personal credit card for business use. Big lessons learned.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.queencolecustoms.com
• Instagram: instagram.com/queencolecustoms
• Facebook: www.fb.me/queencolecustoms