We had the good fortune of connecting with Christie Wiggins and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Christie, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Honestly, I never thought of starting my own business until the idea came to me when a fellow preschool mom said tongue & cheek “can I just venmo you and you do my goodie bags for the next party?” In my mind I wondered ‘wait…if she hates doing them, does that mean other moms do too? What if I did goodie bags FOR people!?” I know it sounds like every pitch on Shark Tank but that’s really how it went…and now I’ve expanded to doing much more than goodie bags!

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
Anyone can give a gift…and I feel like some companies offer gift services with items a very small portion of people would actually want. To be honest, that kind of annoys me, When I started this business I promised myself I would stay true to my values in gifting and that I would only offer items that I believe individuals would like. I understand that gifts are relative (truly, what one person loves, another hates), but there’s also effort that can go into researching popular items, assessing my normal market of customers, etc. I understand that many individuals don’t have time like I do to overthink a small hostess gift (haha) but I strive to build that credibility with my customers that they can trust that I’ve done not only the physical/creative part for the gifts I offer (obviously), but also the mental work as well. Further, I am inclusive in my price options; just because someone has a budget of $10 to spend for me to curate a gift for them, doesn’t mean they don’t deserve to have the option to be a customer of mine. We are all busy in different ways and we get to decide what is (potentially) worth outsourcing for our peace of mind. Finally, I believe what sets me apart is I am willing to do custom gifts for ANY occasion (even if I don’t have set offerings for it) and truly want my customers to be as involved in the process as they desire. I don’t want to establish a precedent that just because an individual is outsourcing their gifting that they don’t get to have a say or opinion in the items (even small details regarding the items) that are in the gift.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Well, as a mom of a 4 year old and 2 year old my life looks VERY different than it used to but I would definitely take her to Klyde Warren Park because of how cool it is there. The Grandscape area in The Colony is also really cool. They do a lot of events which I think is awesome and further builds community which I think is important. I haven’t been in a while but I love The Rustic for great live music and a fun atmosphere. Northpark mall is an absolute staple to me (my business is gifting…of course I’m going to mention a shopping experience, haha). Come to think of it, Dallas shopping is elite so we would have to go to all the fun stores and boutiques. The arboretum is a lot of fun and a perfect place to take pictures, or even spend time in a place of true beauty (I know that sounds corny, but it’s true). Finally, as a true lifelong learner who started out with a career in academia, I think the JFK museum is iconic and the Holocaust museum is amazing as well. Both are very well done and leave a lasting impact long after visiting. As far as food goes, we’re absolutely going to Mi Cocina, Cane Rosso, and Jeni’s ice cream in Addison.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
Oh my gosh, without a doubt my parents. My dad has given me so much wisdom about the entire realm of business as well as helping me develop the tiered system I use for customers to order kids goodie bags/party favors. My mom has given me so much insight on hostess gifts and the creative process as well. My parents never make me feel like I’m dumb for not knowing something or that I’m calling AGAIN with another question, haha. My husband has also been incredibly helpful in every possible aspect!

Instagram: @Dallasgiftinggirl

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutDFW is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.