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

Hi Maria, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I have always enjoyed being crafty and, through the prompting of friends and family, started creating and selling wreaths. I was still working in Oil and gas at the time and loved the creative outlet. After having our twins, I was blessed with the opportunity to stay home. A few months in, my husband suggested I continue to take custom orders at whatever pace made sense to our season of life and this is what I’ve done! I love the flexibility but mostly working with people and being able to bring to life an idea or aesthetic that speaks to them.

What should our readers know about your business?
When I began making wreaths I took on several larger orders for businesses and while it kept me busy, it did not feel like a good fit. Over the years, I have realized that I really enjoy more of a custom boutique-like feel where I can meet with someone and work through colors and ideas. Right now, my business is 99% word of mouth. While I occasionally create wreaths for a trade show, I think I have found my “niche” in custom wreaths. I really enjoy working with clients one on one and bringing to fruition their ideas.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I think Houston is a highly under-rated city as far as entertaining! We actually have quite a bit to offer. I always enjoy taking friends to the museum district and either visiting the science museum, my personal favorite, and/or the museum of fine art. For evening, there are so many wonderful restaurants and bars that you could visit someplace unique each night! I would love to take them to a different area each day/night though because Houston has so much diversity that you don’t want to miss. Also, depending on who is in town, a concert, sporting event or something at discovery green would be great to plan!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband, David, has been so encouraging with ideas, supportive in taking over more family-related tasks and lots of loading and unloading of wreaths and seasonal decor. Our families have also been encouraging from being cheerleaders to some of my first orders!

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HMDownhome

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