Do you need something monogrammed? I'd like to introduce you to Tori Cochran of "Yours Truly". Here is our interview with her. Thank you Tori.
Candie and Michelle: Tell us about your business.
Tori Cochran: In January I started a vinyl monogramming business after getting a vinyl cutting machine for Christmas. I can make all kinds of things with it but I mainly do car decals and tshirts.
Candie and Michelle: You are very talented so glad you started making things. How did you come up with the name “Yours Truly”?
Tori Cochran: One of the first things I made after Christmas was a monogrammed cake carrier. I was so proud that I had learned to use my machine that I posted a picture of the cake carrier on Facebook with the caption "made by yours truly." A friend commented that I should start selling monogrammed items and name my business Yours Truly so I just went with it thinking I wouldn't sell much. I never imagined my business would turn out like it has!
Candie and Michelle: What an amazing story! I love the name you chose. Did you go to school for art or fashion?
Tori Cochran: No, I graduated in August with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. I haven't taken an actual art class since eighth grade!
Candie and Michelle: Congrats on getting your bachelors. Thank you so much for what you do. Have you always been naturally talented and creative?
Tori Cochran: No. Sometimes I have really good ideas but my artistic abilities don't go far past stick figures so I've never been able to follow through with them. I'm so thankful all of my work is done on the computer so I'm able to do so much more.
Candie and Michelle: How long have you been monogramming?
Tori Cochran: I immediately started using my machine on Christmas Day last year (2014), so almost 10 months.
Candie and Michelle: Happy almost 1 year anniversary for your business! :) What is the most difficult part about monogramming?
Tori Cochran: I personally think that weeding is the most difficult part. After the machine cuts the design that I want, I have to remove all of the vinyl that isn't part of the design. It's not really that difficult it is just typically the most time consuming part of the process.
Candie and Michelle: What things inspire you to make a certain item?
Tori Cochran: I like to look on Etsy for ideas or to buy designs. Most of the time I find a design and then change it up a little to make it my own. I also like to use Pinterest for inspiration or even shirts or decals that I see around town. Of course holidays and special occasions get me excited for new designs because it's just another reason to wear a different monogram.
Candie and Michelle: I love Etsy and Pinterest too. I, myself, have found inspiration in both places. What is your favorite thing you have monogrammed so far?
Tori Cochran: My favorite thing I have made would probably have to be my graduation cap. I was able to make it everything I wanted it to be and I was able to help some of my classmates out with theirs.
Candie and Michelle: I saw it. It was pretty. :) Besides monogramming, do you have any other talents?
Tori Cochran: I wouldn't say I'm an excellent baker or cook, but I love to do it. I can't currently think of anything else that I'm just really good at.
Candie and Michelle: :) Is it hard finding family time and running your business?
Tori Cochran: Not really. My business is just for fun and to make a little bit of extra money. I try not to put business before anything else but I still try to have reasonable turn around times.
Candie and Michelle: :) Is it hard going to school and running your business?
Tori Cochran: I don't think there is really such thing as free time in nursing school, but I only monogrammed in my free time even if that was late at night. School was definitely my priority.
Candie and Michelle: Good job on finishing school and starting your business. What advice would you give someone who is nervous about starting their own monogramming company?
Tori Cochran: Only start your own business if it's what you love to do. I have promised myself that I will sell my machine or at least stop selling items if it becomes more stressful than it is fun. Monogramming is my hobby and I don't want it to become a job.
Candie and Michelle: Good advice. Explain how you price your items.
Tori Cochran: I try to take into account how much the vinyl to make the item will cost, how much work it will take to make, and how quickly it needs to be done.
Candie and Michelle: How do our readers get in touch with you if they are interested in getting something monogrammed?
Tori Cochran: You can like my Facebook page, Yours Truly, for my latest designs or to send me a message to order!
Thank you so much Tori for taking the time to sit down with us. We look forward to having you back again. :)
-Candie & Michelle
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