Stepping Up: Say it Ain’t Krispy Founder Vantrell Erving is setting new pathways for growth

Stepping Up: Say it Ain’t Krispy Founder Vantrell Erving is setting new pathways for growth

Since 2014, SIAK founder Vantrell Erving has been daring his customers to say “It ain’t krispy.” “The term “krispy” means very clean, fresh, stylish and just being on point from head to toe,” Erving explains. “Our name really sets the tone for our service and reputation. Because we never want clients to be able to […]

A Good Look: Crim’s licensed apparel contract with Flint’s GoodBoy Clothing opens market to 50,000 customers

A Good Look: Crim’s licensed apparel contract with Flint’s GoodBoy Clothing opens market to 50,000 customers

Oaklin Mixon believes everybody is chasing something. “It can be personal success, wholesome relationships, anything,” says the founder and creative director of GoodBoy Clothing. He also stresses that when you start to run after anything there will be challenges that have to be encountered, and ultimately endured, in order to get to the finish line. […]

Partnerships energize downtown Flint

Partnerships energize downtown Flint

A heartening number of start-up shops that line Flint’s business district are getting invaluable support from downtown anchor institutions. One upcoming pairing to watch is the partnership between Eight Ten Nail Bar, which opened its doors this spring, and Cork on Saginaw, Flint’s chic restaurant and wine bar, celebrating its eighth year of operation. The nail bar’s owners Natalie and […]

Paint and sip: Parties at Paints, Chalices & Hues combine artistic fun, drinks and socializing

Paint and sip: Parties at Paints, Chalices & Hues combine artistic fun, drinks and socializing

Tamika Hicks wanted to create a comfortable event space where visitors could relax and be themselves. What started as a plan for her own birthday became Hicks’ gift to the community. Paints, Chalices & Hues combines artistic fun with drinks and socializing. The simple concept was inspired by an ongoing national trend. “The business started […]

Salads with Sass: Flint entrepreneur satisfies consumer preference to eat green and clean

Salads with Sass: Flint entrepreneur satisfies consumer preference to eat green and clean

Tamara Mathis knows more about the color green than the average person. From thick celery stalks and moist, leafy lettuce to fresh, farm-grown spinach, the owner of Tee’s Plentiful Salads & Catering has spread vegetables on plates throughout Flint for the past five years. A former culinary arts instructor for Flint Community Schools, she’s skilled […]