028: Making $93k/Month Selling Texas Merch

—Welcome to Startup Gems, where we find undiscovered startup growth hacks, stories and case studies from every random nook and cranny of the internet.—
—Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur, an aspiring startup expert, or simply someone seeking inspiration, Startup Gems is your source for the stories that ignite the flames of innovation.—

— Welcome to a special episode where we delve deep into the inspiring tale of Tumbleweed TexStyles, the Texas-inspired apparel brand that captured hearts and soared to success. Today, we're uncovering the secrets behind their journey, exploring the principles that powered their rise, and discovering practical ways for you to apply these lessons to your own ventures. Get ready to be motivated, educated, and inspired as we learn from the remarkable story of Tumbleweed TexStyles. —

—Let me tell you about Nick, the co-founder of Tumbleweed TexStyles. Nick started this Texas-inspired apparel brand in November twenty eleven, along with his partner, Jeb Matulich. They were both high school teachers, Nick teaching marketing and business, and Jeb teaching art. They combined their talents and passion to create a brand that reflected their love for Texas and education.—

—Tumbleweed TexStyles started small, with just 700 dollars invested in their first run of t-shirts. They used their personal savings and reinvested the profits back into the business. Their first design, the Texas Towns design, became their flagship product, featuring hand-drawn designs on softstyle unisex t-shirts. They sold their products online, at festivals, and in local stores. The unique aspect of their designs was that they only included Texas towns they had a connection with, making it a personal experience for their customers.—

—What set Nick and Jeb apart was their dedication to their community. They donated a portion of each sale to the local Frisco Education Foundation, supporting students and teachers. This commitment to giving back resonated with their customers and became a core part of their brand identity.—


—Their business grew steadily, reaching one point two million dollars in annual sales by twenty seventeen. They expanded their product line to include not just t-shirts, but also hats, stickers, glassware, and home decor. Their unique designs and commitment to quality attracted over 150 retailers across Texas and beyond.—

—To manage their growing business, they invested in systems like Shopify, Stitch for inventory management, and Shipstation for shipping logistics. They also used social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to connect with their customers and build a community around their brand.—

—Nick and Jeb's success wasn't just about the products; it was about the story they told. Their brand was built on their education roots, their passion for Texas, and their genuine desire to make a difference. They valued their customers, built strong relationships, and focused on providing an exceptional experience.—

—As their business grew, they faced challenges in managing wholesale partnerships and expanding their product offerings. However, they adapted by hiring the right people and implementing efficient systems. They even ventured into custom design work, collaborating with influencers, musicians, and businesses to create unique designs.—

—One of the keys to their success was continuous learning. Nick read books like "Good to Great" by Jim Collins and "Traction" by Gino Wickman, gaining insights into building effective teams and scaling a business. He also listened to podcasts and sought advice from mentors, constantly improving his knowledge and skills.—

—Nick's journey taught him valuable lessons. He emphasized the importance of people, systems, and partnerships in business. He encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to gain experience, be knowledgeable, and stay true to their values. He reminded them that success takes time, patience, and a lot of hard work.—

—So, that's Nick's story - a tale of passion, perseverance, and community. It's a story of two teachers who turned their love for Texas into a successful business, making a difference in the lives of students, teachers, and customers along the way.—

—Now that we’ve heard the story, let’s dive into the principles of business that led to their success.—
—Principle 1: Authenticity and Community Connection—

—Tumbleweed TexStyles found immense success by staying true to their roots and authentically connecting with their community. They didn’t just sell products; they sold a piece of their genuine passion for Texas. This authenticity resonated deeply with their customers, creating a loyal community around their brand.—

—Concrete Tip: Find Your Unique Voice—

—Every business has a unique story. Identify what makes your brand authentic and build your narrative around it. Share your values, passions, and the story behind your products. Engage with your community on social media, respond to their comments, and show the human side of your business. People connect with people, not just products.—

—Principle 2: Giving Back and Social Responsibility—

—Tumbleweed TexStyles made giving back a core part of their business. They donated a portion of each sale to local education initiatives, creating a positive impact in their community. This social responsibility not only made a difference but also resonated strongly with customers who wanted to contribute to a greater cause through their purchases.—

—Concrete Tip: Support a Cause—

—Identify a cause that aligns with your brand values. It could be education, environmental conservation, or any social issue. Allocate a percentage of your profits to support this cause regularly. Communicate transparently with your customers about the impact their purchases are making. This not only fosters goodwill but also gives customers a compelling reason to choose your brand over others.—

—Principle 3: Continuous Learning and Adaptability—

—Nick, one of the co-founders, emphasized the importance of continuous learning. He read books, listened to podcasts, and sought advice from mentors. Tumbleweed TexStyles’ ability to adapt to changing market demands and implement efficient systems allowed them to grow and scale their business effectively.—

—Concrete Tip: Invest in Knowledge and Technology—

—Stay updated with industry trends and invest in continuous learning for yourself and your team. Attend workshops, read books, and listen to podcasts related to your business niche. Additionally, invest in technology and tools that streamline your operations, whether it's inventory management software, customer relationship management systems, or social media scheduling tools. These investments save time and enhance productivity, enabling your business to adapt swiftly to market changes.—

—Remember, entrepreneurs, these principles – Authenticity, Social Responsibility, and Continuous Learning – are not just limited to Tumbleweed TexStyles. By incorporating these principles into your business, you can create a strong, authentic brand, make a positive impact on your community, and ensure long-term success in your entrepreneurial journey. Stay inspired and keep innovating!—


—Thank you for being part of today's adventure through the world of startups and innovation. Did this episode ignite any fresh perspectives or ideas? Share your reflections and favorite takeaways in a review wherever you’re listening now. Remember to stay curious, continue to forge your own path, and subscribe and follow Startup Gems to be the first to access stories that will fan the flames of your entrepreneurial passion.—