We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Wyncie Groves a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Wyncie, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s jump to the end – what do you want to be remembered for?
I’ve always believed this is more than a bag. I hope to live my life and do business in a way that exemplifies that. I do believe this business was a God-given idea. I hope in some way I can make Christ known through my business. In an effort to do that, my business has partnered with Compassion International. This is a ministry that provides children in extreme poverty across the world with assistance such as but not limited to: connection to a local church, “medical checkups, healthy food, education assistance, and key life skills training.” This is all done through a one-on-one sponsorship program. The best part about this ministry is you’re able to form a relationship with the child you sponsor by exchanging letters. My business sponsors a 5 year old little girl from the Philippines. I also try to advocate for Compassion International by spreading awareness about the ministry and encouraging others to sponsor their own children.
Wyncie, love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?
Three years ago a seemingly random thought entered my mind. As I was searching the internet hoping to purchase a new purse, a business started forming in my mind. Could I learn to make these western bags? In an instant it seemed like I could see it all: exactly what I wanted these bags to look like, the materials I wanted to use, the way I wanted to market them, growth ideas, the way I would photograph the products, and how I could put everything I had learned about business to use through this idea. I then spent several months telling myself I already had another business I needed to focus on, that I didn’t have the time, that making bags would cost more money than it was worth and other similar thoughts. But this idea of creating a business making western bags was relentless and consumed my mind. I spent a lot of time praying about whether or not this was the right thing to pursue. After receiving multiple confirmations I knew this was an idea God had given me and I was all in. I then struggled for over a year to figure out everything that was needed to make these bags. I had no experience sewing and had no idea where to find the very specific materials I knew I needed. So many times during that year it seemed impossible, but 14 months later when I had almost given up on the idea I finally sold my first bag. After selling that first bag everything that had been holding me back from getting this business started began falling into place.
Now named ‘Wyncie Evelyn Design Customs” my business specializes in completely hand-made, western, leather bags and recently I have added a line of burned felt hats. My businesses slogan is, “Put your western style on display. Make a statement.” I try to embody this through every piece I make. Your bag is the one accessory you wear every day. Whether running errands in leggings and a messy bun, or going to a wedding dressed your best, there your bag is with you. And I believe it has the power to help you express your style, who you are and build your confidence every day.
All of my products being hand-made sets my business apart. No two products will ever be the same. Each piece has hours put into it from design thoughts, to cutting out so many pieces of material and then sewing each piece together. So much time love and energy is put into every piece I’ve ever created. These bags and hats are my way of creating art.
I’m proud of the fact that God would give me a dream I can be so passionate about and give me the opportunity to pursue it. Knowing He sparked this dream inside of me pushes me everyday to grow it to the best of my abilities.
How did you put together the initial capital you needed to start your business?
I knew I wanted to start and keep this business completely debt free. The first bag I made I used materials I already had at home. Every bag I sold I used to buy more materials. I made what I had work until I sold enough bags to buy more or better equipment or materials.
How do you keep in touch with clients and foster brand loyalty?
I try to build a relationship with as many of my followers as I can. The people you meet and relationships that are formed can be the best part of owning a business. In the end, it’s the people you come in contact with that matter the most. Focus on building meaningful relationships and the sales that follow will just be a bonus.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.wedcpurses.com
- Instagram: @wyncieevelyndc
- Facebook: @wyncieevelyndc
Image Credits
Avery Marie Photography