Meet Mandi Pacer of Morrison

Today we’d like to introduce you to Mandi Pacer.

Alright, so thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, can you tell us a bit about how you got started?
The year 2020 was an utter whirlwind! In late February, I was fired from a digital media sales position for failing to meet a quota. While I was completing my MBA at Metro State, I was also hunting for a new job. After what I thought would be my next break, and the perfect opportunity presented itself, I received the final heartbreaking call. I was not selected and the employer decided to move forward with an individual who “brought something different to the table”. Many weeks later, I uncovered that the chosen candidate was neck and neck with me in similar credentials. The differentiating and deciding factor, he is an entrepreneur. That lit a blazing fire under me. Through many dead ends and let downs, I contemplated, “If Corporate America is telling me ‘NO’, why don’t I say ‘YES’ to myself?!” Because I had an NDA from my former employer precluding me from pursuing small business digital media strategy and brand consulting, I took a detour. I had encountered a few Creative Co-Ops and thought, “Why not give it a shot?” I have the great fortune and privilege of knowing a number of talented artists and wanted to give them a platform to shine on. My friends and family would describe me as a fervently passionate and someone who is always eager to advocate for others, especially in finding their heart and soul. So, low and behold, The Moxi Poppy was brought to life. My shop had modest beginnings in July 2020 with only 8 vendors, and has now grown to over 50 local makers. In addition to being the visionary behind curating the space, I now assist a number of other small businesses as social media strategist. By recognizing my own potential and becoming my own boss, I was able to make the best investment in my future. This is undoubtedly showcased in choosing the word Moxi(e) to tell my story and build my own unique brand, one that perpetuates around “blossoming curiosity and endless possibility.”

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not all has been a cakewalk in this entrepreneurial endeavor. Before allowing me to sign a lease, the landlord required me to create an extensive business plan mapping out my vision and how I intended to be able to meet my financial obligations and make a profit. In the middle of a pandemic, she wanted to ensure I wouldn’t default. She was reluctant to give me the keys, but I assured her I would find a way, even if it meant picking up side hustles. In retrospect, I am appreciative of her lofty request as it allowed me to reveal some weak points and areas of opportunity in my business, essentially putting my MBA to work. The first year in business I came up at breakeven. Now that I have grown my inventory and diversified my income streams, I am finally on track to be profitable. For many retail establishments, January through April is a lull period as there are fewer shoppers. Because of this, I try to be open most of November and December to capitalize on an aggressive holiday shopper audience.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I would regard myself as a Visionary in that I unearth local talent and also collaborate with artisans on special projects. My creative wheels are always turning and for that, I am always daydreaming about the next big thing to manifest and monetize. Instead of CMO (Chief Marketing Officer), I regard myself as the Chief Magic Officer, perhaps a play on being a Disney fanatic! I am in the process of having a children’s book I wrote illustrated and published, and I am dabbling in apparel with a nod to pop culture in my quirky T-shirt designs.

What matters most to you?
Imploring others to be their authentic, unabashed selves and tapping into their true potential as a creator, be it in the traditional sense or an unorthodox fashion.

Contact Info:

• Email: themoxipoppy@gmail.com
• Website: https://www.etsy.com/shop/TheMoxiPoppy
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themoxipoppy/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/themoxipoppy