The Studio in Wheeler, Texas was not originally intended to be a coffee shop. Christie’s initial vision was to create an art studio that would provide a space for children in the community to engage in art, as Wheeler does not have an art program. The concept evolved as Christie and her husband considered the ample space they had available and recognized the lack of a coffee shop in the area. This led to the creation of a gathering place that the community previously

didn’t have.

 

Since opening last year, The Studio has continued to grow and adapt as Christie identifies new needs and opportunities. It now includes space for local artisans to sell their artwork and other goods on consignment, and offers art classes for both adults and children. The Studio serves lunch and provides catering services, with everything made from scratch using fresh ingredients. Christie bakes incredible pastries using family recipes. Multiple meeting spaces are available for clubs and organizations to use. The Studio serves as a strong example of how to successfully implement multiple revenue streams. The SBDC has supported Christie in growing her business and navigating various aspects of hiring and staff development.

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 Get to know Christie and hear her advice for other small business owners in her Q&A!

 

1)     When did you start your business/ year started?

2024

 

2)     Why did you decide to start your business?

"There is a little bit of everything here, it isn’t just a coffee shop. There are some very creative people in Wheeler, but no art program. I will do whatever medium to offer a variety for the community."

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3)     What is your favorite memory in the business?

“The grand opening was cool because it was the fourth of July weekend and we got to see all the people. And I love the community events because we get to see a little bit of everybody and of course people are always discovering the coffee shop for the first time, having those “ah-ha” moments.”

 

4)     What is the most rewarding part of running a small business?

“The personal touch. I get to visit with everyone that comes in. I always try to engage with everyone that comes in even if it’s just a short “Hello”. When we have art classes, I get to see the kids doing their art, I enjoy that as well.”

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5)     What is the hardest part of running a small business?

“My biggest challenge is figuring out how to be a boss. Honestly, I know how to be a mom, but to be a “boss” there is a fine line that needs to be balanced. You don’t want to be taken advantage of.”

 

6)     How does the business get to positively impact your community?

“We offer a place for the community to use as their creative space and safe environment. In the future, I am hoping people will be interested in having club meetings and events here. 

 

7)     What makes you different from your competition?

“I don’t believe in competition, I believe in community. My biggest competition is when people are not community driven.”

 

8)     Best tips for others in business?

“Don’t take it too seriously. We are all very invested in our small business, and there are days that don’t go your way, but tomorrow is going to be better. Also, I don’t think we need to be so stagnant. If something is not working, we need to find what needs to be tweaked for it to work better or there won’t be any growth.”

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9)  How has/did the SBDC help you in your business venture?

“The SBDC kept me on track with my numbers and finances. I struggled with it a lot until I knew what to look for and found that perfect point of sale system. Gina Woodward has been pretty instrumental in my journey as well. She did some market research and found numbers for me that I wouldn’t even know where to begin trying to find myself.”

 

10)  What is the biggest challenge in your journey?

“I would say that's figuring out what makes money. After six months of being open, I already have a good idea of what works and what doesn’t. Also, reaching people with new foods we offer has been a challenge.”