In 2010, Nicole Kringer and Erin Manders founded KnotaGeek LLC, a small web-based business that specializes in producing handmade accessories.
The co-founders pursued this venture with no business background and make every piece of merchandise themselves.
Lack of experience led to difficult beginnings for KnotaGeek, but through trial and error Kringer and Manders eventually found pricing models that worked and how best to market themselves.
Kringer said their sales increased because they raised their prices.
“People can’t try on our products online so when they see them they have to look professional, but when we started our pictures looked atrocious,†Kringer said.
“Our competition has been both a challenge and an inspiration because we can see what works,†Kringer said.
In addition to learning how to run their business from scratch, Manders said the pair also works full-time. One of their biggest challenges has been taking the time to make their products.