In a special series, please check out our feature on these wonderful local businesses, non-profits and artists who bring local loveliness to us all! Please enjoy meeting Victoria Truhn owner of Tried and Truhn Ceramics in out of Arlington, VA.
Tell us about yourself. (Who are you/ What is your business name?)
My name is Victoria Truhn and I am the one-woman show behind Tried and Truhn Ceramics.
What has it been like with the Covid19/ Quarantine Scenario and how have you had to pivot your business?
The pandemic has allowed me to focus my efforts on practicing new skills at home without the pressure of getting it right the first time. Since all of my local selling opportunities were cancelled, I am not under as much pressure to create right now and it is allowing my to take a little brain break.
Have you always had the entrepreneurial spirit?
No, quite the opposite. The business side of things is what makes my head explode. I’m a maker, and enjoy bringing things into the world that provide joy and serve a purpose. Along with that joy comes the hassle of figuring out how to market, sell, build connections, and pay taxes.
Do you have a morning routine?
My morning routine typically includes hitting snooze approximately 7 times, making myself a smoothie, and reading my Bible. If I do all of that, get pants on, and out the door by 9:00am I consider it a successful day already.
When did you decide being an entrepreneur was right for you?
I’ve always made art and given it away, but with increased requests for work and a fraction of available time to create while working full time, I decided to take my pottery business full-time and see if I can figure it out. It has been one year, officially, and so far I’m not drowning.
What made you choose this location?
I grew up in Maryland, but my husband and I moved to Arlington for a work opportunity – probably the same reason everyone has ended up here. But we love it and don’t plan on leaving.
How do you think your company is different?
In general, my company is different because it is the smallest of small businesses, art based, and somehow succeeding. It’s me myself and I running every aspect and some days I don’t know how it works.
What word best describes your company?
My goal is that my pieces be “COMFORTABLE”. Comfortable to use, easy to choose, and affordable (comfy) for the wallet.
If you weren’t running your business what would you be doing?
I previously worked in event planning and have always enjoyed the organized side of any task.
When you started your company, did you have an idea about what would go into the day to day?
Only a little bit. I knew the ins and outs of producing my pieces, but the other half of business documents, tax filings, fees, licenses, and endless emails is something I’m still getting used to.
What is your style?
I’ve always preferred simple yet different. I don’t want to jump out at you, but a pop of color never killed anyone.
