Meet Tanja, the visionary founder and owner of Kits and Crates, a custom design studio specializing in personalized products for events, milestone celebrations, and gifting. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for creativity, Tanja creates unique, laser-engraved wood and acrylic items that transform special moments into lasting memories. Read on to learn more!
What is your business called and what does it do?
Kits and Crates is a custom design studio that creates personalized products for events, milestone celebrations, and gifting. We specialize in laser-engraved wood and acrylic items, such as ornaments, signs, and keepsakes.
What made you want to do this work?
After over a decade in the utility industry managing projects and research, I decided to pursue my passion for creativity and entrepreneurship. I’ve always loved making meaningful, personalized items that celebrate life’s special moments. I wanted to create a business that helps others make their celebrations even more memorable.
What problem did you want to solve with the business?
I noticed a lack of truly customized, high-quality products that feel personal and thoughtful. Kits and Crates aims to solve that by offering unique items tailored to each customer’s vision, making gifting and decorating for special occasions stress-free and enjoyable.
Who are your clientele/demographics?
Our clients range from event planners and small business owners to individuals looking for unique gifts or décor for weddings, birthdays, and holidays. Many of our customers value quality craftsmanship and want something custom that reflects their personal style.
How does your business make money? How does it work?
We sell our products primarily through our Etsy shop, as well as through direct orders from clients who need customized pieces for events or bulk orders. We focus on creating high-quality, handmade items, and each project is priced based on the materials, design work, and production time involved.
Where in the city can we find your profession?
Our work is based in Langley, but since we operate primarily online, we can serve clients locally and beyond.
What is the best question a prospective customer could ask a member of your profession when comparing services? Give the answer as well.
Question: “What is your design process, and how do you ensure the product matches my vision?”
Answer: At Kits and Crates, collaboration is key. We discuss your ideas and requirements, provide design proofs for approval, and ensure open communication throughout the process. This guarantees the final product is exactly what you envisioned.
What is the best part about what you do? What is the worst part?
The best part is seeing the joy our products bring to customers, especially when they tell us how meaningful or impactful the item is. The worst part is having too many ideas and not enough time to create and refine them all. There’s always a new design or concept I want to explore, and prioritizing can be tough!
What is your favourite joke about your own profession?
What do you call a perfectionist engraver?
Someone who’s laser-focused!
Where can we follow you?
PAY IT FORWARD: What is another local business that you love?
One local business I absolutely love is YVR Creative, it is run by Christine Coughlin who has created an inclusive community for female entrepreneurs. You can connect with her at YVRcreatives.ca or @YVRcreatives
