Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamanava Eden-McLintock.
Hi Tamanava, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
When my daughter was born back in 2006, her skin was so sensitive that most commercial products for sensitive skin were too strong for her. So, I began making some of her bath products as a new hobby. Several friends at the time pushed me to try selling my products, but I was a full-time preschool teacher and didn’t have the money nor the time for another commitment. But my BFF at the time urged us to start a business together, so I eventually went for it. As a kid, my grandfather & uncle would refer to my grandmothers as “The old broomsticks yakking in the corner.” Since they taught me most of what I know about folk medicine and herbalism, I named my company Broomsticks (now Broomsticks Designs). 3 months later, she folded out, and I poorly ran the business on the side while juggling work, family, plus my own continued education until 2008, when I gave up and shut down Broomsticks. In 2010, my health took a downturn, and I realized that I would only be teaching a few more years, so I reopened Broomsticks but only as a part-time gig. I gave more effort but still not enough until 2016. As a retired teacher, I only then poured my heart, soul, and disposable income into the business. I changed the name to Broomsticks Designs in 2021 so that all of my advertising materials matched my Etsy name.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Absolutely not! But every struggle has been worth it. As I mentioned, I had a very busy life in the beginning. And I had never imagined becoming a business owner. It was only after selling my products at a few craft fairs that I realized this could be a reality. The biggest struggle is financial. You truly have to spend money to make money, and if you want to develop and sell a quality product, then you really have to spend money! I’m always looking for ways to bring quality materials to the table without having to charge my customers an arm and a leg. My personal motto is the provide affordable small luxuries for all. While business is starting to really catch on, I’m still turning all profits back into the business. I hope to soon turn some of these profits into savings. Another challenge was having faith in myself and my products, especially when those close to me would call what I do “A cute little hobby.” But during the pandemic, when I had a couple of months of $1000 or more sales, that put an end to that. You just have to keep pushing, take notes of the pros and cons, revamp, and try again until things click. As a member of the “overflooded, luxury items” crowd, I have learned to accept that some shows I will do well, and others will kinda suck. But every chance to gain exposure and every single sale, no matter how small, is a blessing.
Thanks – so, what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I handmake bath and body products, candles and wax melts, wreaths, and centerpieces. I have a certificate in Garment Construction, and while I don’t consider myself a full-on seamstress, I do enjoy making a variety of hand-sewn garments, t-shirt blankets, placemats, mug mats, tote bags, aprons, and such. I’m most known for my packaging, which I am very proud of. I use a variety of colored/printed tissue and gift wrap papers to package my soap bars. It is a nod to a little gift shop in National City or Chula Vista my grandmother used to frequent (unfortunately, I cannot remember the name, but it no longer exists). Every time I went with her, she would get me a little something to take home, wrapped in fancy paper or bows. It always felt like the most special of treats. That is how I want every customer to feel when they purchase one of my products. No matter how large or small the item, it should look and feel truly special. What tends to set me apart from others besides this packaging is my prices. I know I could charge more, but I’d feel dirty. Yes, I want to make a profit and feed my family, but I’m not going to financially rape your wallet to do so, and now that I have peaked behind the proverbial curtain and know how many products are made, I know what I’m willing to pay for something. I can’t in good conscious charge you more than what I would pay. And I love that this helps me be more accessible to more people and their limited budgets. I am also a licensed Minister and Eclectic Wiccan High Priestess, so I perform Tarot readings, weddings and handfastings, funerals, baby and house blessings, and other Clergy services as well.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
As I mentioned in the beginning, my grandmothers helped me learn the foundation of what I know, My mom never lost faith in me and has been my biggest cheerleader and for that I am beyond grateful, Every customer, and every friend that simply reshares my posts or brings a friend to my shows–I am thankful for your continued business and for your continued support!
Pricing:
- Most bath and wax items start at $3
- Tarot reading sessions: $30 for 30 mins or $60 for an hour
- I love custom orders!
Contact Info:
- Website: www.etsy.com/shop/BroomsticksDesigns
- Instagram: broomsticks_tammy
- Facebook: Broomsticks Designs
- Other: TikTok: @broomsticksdesignstammy
