Jill Miller: Projects in Person

  • How did you get the idea for PIP?

They first called their idea Pinterest in person. Jill was an avid Pinterest user from being a teacher, and also a  new home-owner. She discovered there wasn’t a place to go and create these projects with all the tools and instructions you need, and leave with something you really love. Jill’s husband is an engineer by day, and and they decided to combine their skills to create the business together.

  • What resources did you use that you found most helpful when you were starting the business?

They researched the business for about a year, and while Jill was traveling with her husband, she would read the MN Economic Development website, and learn about small businesses, as well as the rules and regulations for starting one. Another helpful resource, was connecting with other small business owners to mentor her along the way. Also, her leasing agent was another resource who walked them through the process. 

  • What made you choose Hopkins as the place for your brick and mortar store?

Jill grew up in Hopkins and loves the quaint location as well as the distance from the cities. 

  • Can you describe the process for creating a brick and mortar store?

First, they found a leasing agent who was familiar with the area. The leasing agent was familiar with the landlords, and what buildings were available in the area. Once they found the location, the next step was working with an attorney who was familiar with commercial leasing. They wanted to make sure their agreement was very solid before they moved forward. It was about a year long process to find the perfect space for their business. Once they were in their space, they had to find contractors to help decorate, and take care of the building properly. 

  • How did you manage starting up the business at the same time as having twin infants at home?

The twins provided extra motivation for her to work harder on creating their business. She would research while they were napping as much as possible, but was motivated by the idea of her children one day knowing that their Mom created this business, and worked really hard at it. 

  • What are your daily tasks that you are in charge of with the business?

Jill wears many hats such as emailing, sourcing, sales and marketing, as well as the vision of the company.

  • Are there any challenges co-owning the business with your husband?

Jill and her husband try to remember that they are on the same team. They define their roles, as well as their strengths, and delegate to each other various tasks that need to be completed. They also strive to be honest with each other as much as possible. 

  • Are your workshops designed for beginners?

If you don’t have experience, it is step by step, and they will walk you through it. If you do have experience, then you know how valuable it is for someone to do the back end side of it, such as obtaining all the materials, and setting it up for you. 

  • What are some of your favorite projects that you’ve worked on?

Jill doesn’t have a favorite, and loves each and every one of them. She really enjoys the big projects, and the feeling of satisfaction when it’s completed.

  • What are some of the steps to sign up for a project at your store?
  • You can pick your project and date on the website, and make it a date night, or a night out with friends. 
  • You can also do private or corporate events.
  • Another option is the build bar- in the front of the workshop, mini projects in a mini timeline with a mini price tag.
  • What is your work/life balance like currently, with three kids and the business?

Jill stays at home with her kids during the day three days a week and manages the businesses during the other two days.

  • Do your children build projects at home as well?

They built their own floating bookshelves, and they like to get involved, but mostly Jill and her husband choose to keep the business separate from their personal life.

  • What do you hope to add to your business in the future?

Currently, they are trying to make the current location as crisp as can be. They have been asked whether they are interested in franchising in other states. They are working with their attorneys on the details to franchise but are first trying to make their first store as great as it can be. 

  • What have you learned during the process of building projects? Any tips for DIYers.

Jill recommends prototyping what you want to do. For example, if you need to build a big headboard, first make a smaller barbie doll size, so you can have an idea of what you want to do, before you start the big project. 

  • Any business advice for those who want to start a small business?

Jill says “Just do it”. Her and her husband use the slogan “ready, aim fire.” Listen to your gut, and keep your business and personal life as separate as possible. Keep your successes and failures in your business separate from your personal failures and successes. Be gentle, and ambitious with yourself.