Today we’d like to introduce you to Wilma Pino
Wilma, we appreciate you taking the time to share your story with us today. Where does your story begin?
In the midst of uncertainty, creativity often becomes a powerful lifeline. For me, it all began in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Like so many others, I was navigating uncharted waters—working from home, grappling with the anxiety of potential job loss, and adjusting to an isolating new reality. Amid these challenges, I turned to crafting as a way to cope, finding solace in a Cricut machine that quickly became more than just a hobby—it became my creative escape.
Crafting started as a way to keep my mind busy and ward off the negative thoughts swirling around me. Each project brought a sense of purpose and positivity that helped me push through the chaos of the world outside. What started as a personal outlet to manage stress transformed into something magical—a passion I wanted to share with others.
Through self-teaching and countless hours of research on social media and the internet, I expanded my skills. I learned techniques, discovered new materials, and explored the endless possibilities of handmade goods and crafting. My love for creating custom pieces with a touch of magic blossomed, and Minnie Creations Co. was born.
With the unwavering support of my husband, I’ve been able to expand the shop into something I’m truly proud of. What began as a small home project has grown into a small business that includes a Faire wholesale shop, an Etsy shop, and a dedicated website. I also started attending Vendor Markets in the past 2 years and selling our items in person in central Florida. These platforms and market’s allow me to reach even more people by sharing my handmade items that bring joy, magic, and personal touches to their lives.
Minnie Creations Co. is more than just a small, family-owned shop; it’s a testament to resilience and creativity. Every item we produce—from sublimation tumblers and glassware to accessories like car coasters, keychains, and custom apparel—is crafted with care and love. Each piece tells a story, inspired by my journey and the belief that small things can make a big difference.
What makes Minnie Creations Co. unique is the heart behind every creation. My love for crafting, combined with a sense of community and the joy of bringing people’s visions to life, fuels my work every day. Whether it’s a custom tumbler to brighten someone’s morning coffee or a personalized keychain that sparks joy, my goal is to create pieces that add a little bit of magic to everyday life.
Today, Minnie Creations Co. continues to grow, but its roots remain firmly planted in the values that started it all—creativity, resilience, and a deep appreciation for life’s small, beautiful moments. It’s a reminder that even in uncertain times, we can create something extraordinary.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It definitely hasn’t always been easy. Balancing a full-time job in healthcare, family life, and my small business means I can’t always dedicate as much time as I’d like, which can be frustrating. There have been moments of self-doubt, where imposter syndrome creeps in, and I have to remind myself why I started in the first place.
One of the biggest challenges I faced early on was taking on too many wholesale orders at once as a one-woman business. At one point, I had a 150-shirt order for a boutique in Alaska and a 125-shirt order for Texas, all while working late nights to get everything packed. Exhaustion got the best of me, and I accidentally swapped the shipments, which cost me time and money—not to mention the stress of making things right with my customers. Thankfully, they were understanding and returned the items, but it was a tough lesson in organization and quality control.
Since then, I’ve put systems in place, including a detailed checklist, and I always double—sometimes triple—check my work to avoid mistakes. Every challenge has taught me something valuable, and while the road hasn’t been smooth, the lessons learned have helped me grow both as a business owner and a creator.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve always been creative—knitting, painting, and drawing as a teen—but after COVID, I really honed in on my passion for crafting. What started as a hobby with my Cricut quickly turned into something much bigger, opening up a whole new world of possibilities. Now, through Minnie Creations Co., I use vinyl, UVDTF, DTF, laser printing, and sublimation techniques to create unique tumblers, glass can cups, coasters, keychains, totes, shirts, and special occasion gifts. I also design custom graphics for customers who want something truly personal on their drinkware or accessories. The possibilities are endless! I love exploring new techniques and bringing creative ideas to life, which is why I haven’t been able to niche down—I just enjoy making too much!
We love surprises, fun facts and unexpected stories. Is there something you can share that might surprise us?
Something surprising about me is that my journey into crafting started as a way to cope during the uncertainty of the COVID-19 pandemic. What began as a simple creative outlet quickly turned into a passion, and before I knew it, Minnie Creations Co. was born. I’ve been living in Florida for three years now after moving from Connecticut, and my love for the Disney Magic played a big role in the name I chose for my shop. While I have a full-time job and a family to care for, I still find time to create because crafting brings me so much joy. Balancing it all isn’t always easy, but seeing people love and appreciate my handmade pieces makes it all worth it!
Another surprising aspect of my journey is that I stepped out of my comfort zone by participating in pop-up markets to showcase my work. It’s been 2 years now since my first event! As an introvert with an extroverted heart, these events have pushed me to engage with customers in a way I never imagined. Connecting with people in person has given me the opportunity to share not only my products but also my creative process and the love that goes into each piece. Outside of crafting, I’m also passionate about reading and am currently obsessed with fiction books like A Court of Thorns and Roses by Sarah J. Maas and Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros. Finding time for both my creative and literary passions keeps me inspired and motivated every day.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.MinnieCreationsCo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/minniecreationsco
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/minniecreationsco
- Other: https://linktr.ee/MinnieCreationsCo
Image Credits
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