Six questions with Nicke Minder -Avenue261

What inspired you to launch your own business?

Avenue261 was a happy little accident. I owned a previous online business and storefront and started making leather earrings for the store. They soon became my best seller. I realized I could use this new business to create cool accessories to promote progressive change.

What is your passion?

I am passionate about recognizing my privileges and how to use my business as a platform for progressive change. I am a work in progress, always learning, observing, and listening to better myself & my business. 

How do you start your day?

I wish I had something fun and motivating for the readers for this. I check my phone, roll out of bed, and hope I get a few minutes to myself before a child asks me for something. 

What is your favorite local business at which to shop?

I love Wild Rose! Monica Zanetti-Reed has such a fun storefront and has worked so hard to make it an inclusive place to shop. She is a force, and I’m super proud of her. I also love The Cardologist.

What do you deem as success in business?

Success is making an impact through the stories of the women I name my earrings after. Any education I can deliver, telling the stories of amazing women in history, and using that for progressive change, is a success. 

What is your number one piece of advice for business owners?

There are so many directions I could go with this, but ultimately, I would say, “keep your eyes on your paper.” There are so many distractions, and building a small business is hard work. Stay true to who you are and let that shine through. Typically, people that shop at small businesses are not just looking to purchase a product but are buying a piece of you as well, so show them who you are.

You can find out more about Avenue261 at avenue261.com, on Facebook, and on Instagram.