The Tinderbox
Starting a small business is a leap of faith, and for me, that leap took the shape of opening The Tinderbox, a store, makerspace, and retail incubator on Main Street in midtown Houston over a decade ago. Like many entrepreneurs, I was driven by a vision: to create a space where local makers and dreamers could showcase their work, grow their businesses, and build community. When The Tinderbox opened its doors, it was more than just a store—it was an experiment in fostering creativity and resilience among local entrepreneurs. Texas’s incredible diversity meant that every shelf and display became a reflection of the state’s cultures, talents, and untold stories. Getting to opening day, though, wasn’t easy. It required navigating endless details: securing permits, designing a space that was both functional and inviting, and figuring out how to amplify the voices of the emerging brands I wanted to support. But the most significant challenge was stepping into the role of a leader—not just for my own business but as a mentor for others who were just beginning their entrepreneurial journeys. I learned so many lessons that shape the way I approach entrepreneurship and guide others today:
Start Small, Dream Big
Every business begins with a spark, but that doesn’t mean you need to fan it into a wildfire overnight. At The Tinderbox, I encouraged makers to start with a few products, test the waters, and refine their offerings. I apply this same philosophy in coaching: validate your idea before scaling up.
Build Community, Not Just Customers
From day one, The Tinderbox wasn’t just about selling goods—it was about creating connections. Events, workshops, and collaborations became the heartbeat of the store. Building relationships doesn’t just grow your customer base; it creates advocates for your brand who feel invested in your success.
Adapt and Evolve
Retail is an ever-changing landscape, and staying relevant requires flexibility. When trends shifted or the unexpected happened (hello, supply chain disruptions!), I learned to pivot quickly. This agility is a skill I emphasize with entrepreneurs—sticking to your plan is important, but so is staying open to new possibilities.
Celebrate the Small Wins
Opening a storefront or launching a product is exciting, but it’s the day-to-day victories that keep you going. A glowing review from a customer or a record-breaking week of sales reminds you why you started in the first place. Pausing to appreciate these moments can keep burnout at bay.
It’s Okay to Ask for Help
Entrepreneurship can feel lonely, but it doesn’t have to be. Whether it was reaching out to mentors, leaning on peers, or hiring experts, I learned the value of admitting when I didn’t have all the answers. This has become central to how I support entrepreneurs today—reminding them that asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.
I know the struggles, triumphs, and risks that come with chasing a dream, and I use those experiences to guide others in finding their footing. Whether it’s helping an entrepreneur navigate the chaos of their first product launch or encouraging them to embrace the resilience that lives within them, my mission is to light their path the way others once lit mine. Opening The Tinderbox was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my life, and it shaped who I am today—not just as a business owner, but as someone deeply committed to empowering others. To every entrepreneur out there: keep chasing the spark. You never know how far it will take you.
