Today’s Small Business feature is such a good one, Mamas! Some of our best memories as kids are sleepovers and our kids ask for them ALL THE TIME, and this local businesses will make their sleep over dreams come true! Tiny Teepees HTX offers customized slumber party packages for children with custom made teepee options, decor items, accessories, and add ons (karaoke machine, board games, balloon garlands, polaroid camera). Some of her most popular themes include unicorns, princesses, outer space, and camping. The owner and second grade teacher, Armani, LOVES bringing joy to not only the kids, but to the parents. And especially during this pandemic, she loves being able to bring a fun, unique, and safe event to break up the normal routine!
We sat down with this sweet owner and learned more about her inspiration behind starting Tiny Teepee, her advice to entrepreneurs, and how she has put safety procedures in place due to Covid-19 and how she now offers contactless delivery.
Where are you from originally and how long have you lived in the Houston area?
I am originally from New Orleans, LA. I relocated to Houston a little over a year ago shortly after graduating from LSU Baton Rouge.
What did you do before becoming a business owner?
I’m a first-year second-grade teacher.
When did you start Tiny Teepee HTX and what was the inspiration behind starting this business?
One of my favorite activities as a kid was building tents out of blankets in my bedroom! Creating Tiny Teepee HTX seemed like a fun way to connect with local families. I also love the creative aspect of building the tents, selecting and sewing fabrics, choosing color palettes, and shopping for decor items.
Tell us about Tiny Teepee HTX! What do you offer?
You get to bring so much joy to kids, is that your favorite part of your business?
Do you have themes for boys and girl sleepovers?
How has Covid-19 affected your business? Tell us about contactless delivery/set up.
During setups/take-downs we use safety precautions such as wearing masks and gloves while practicing social distancing. All party items are thoroughly sanitized before I bring them into my client’s homes. I leave a complimentary infrared thermometer and a sanitizer spray with parents to check the children’s temperatures before they join the sleepover and to wipe down items as needed during the party. Finally, I offer a contactless delivery option where all items are organized and pre-assembled. I drop them off outside of your home and they’re ready for you to set up!
Best advice for someone wanting to take the leap of faith into entrepreneurship or wanting to open their own business?
I would advise that person to think of what products or services they can come up with that people will truly need and appreciate! Choose a niche that you love and wouldn’t mind spending hours a week working on. Also, don’t wait for the “perfect” moment to get started because the perfect moment will never come, it’s when you decide to create it!
When things get hard, what’s one thing you tell yourself to keep going when running this business?
I am fortunate to have a very supportive circle of close friends and family members. They are encouraging and can offer advice and constructive feedback. It’s always important to begin with the end in mind- always remind yourself of why you got started. Also, having a business that you’re truly excited about and passionate about makes it easier!
Future plans for your business?
Yes, I’ve gotten requests from moms for mommy sleepovers! I am in the process of having larger tents built. Stay tuned!
Any special, sales, or deals our Moms can look out for?
Yes! I love decorating for the holidays and I am super excited to roll out “Tent or Treat”. We’ll bring a spooktacular Halloween sleepover to you! Check out my Instagram @TinyTeepeeHTX for a sneak peek.
To learn more about Tiny Teepee HTX and book an event, head over to their website and social media:
Website: TinyTeepeeHTX.com
Instagram: @TinyTeepeeHTX
Facebook: Facebook.com/TinyTeepee