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

Hi Takiya, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I kind of stumbled into business ownership. Like many of us, the lockdown inspired new and renewed interests. I’d done a few macramé projects several years ago, but only for my home. I began practicing those skills more with the time that the lockdown provided. A few friends purchased my early creations and started requesting customer orders. When pop-ups and small business markets started happening in 2021, I was excited to meet other makers and share in that community. The small business community – both vendors and customers – is my favorite thing about having my own business.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
My macramé journey started a few years ago, when I wanted to add some pieces to my home, but also wanted to feed my creative side. So, I watched tutorials and practiced my knots using yarn and miscellaneous branches. I didn’t advance much more at that point, but then, lockdown hit. During that time, I honed my skills and soon enough, started selling my pieces.

I started small – mini plant hangers, earrings, and custom orders. From there, I started participating in local pop-ups and markets. Meeting other vendors and new customers is so fun! Selling online is convenient, but chatting with customers, answering questions, meeting people – connecting – that’s when I feel most fulfilled.

I realize that macramé isn’t new; it’s been around since before I was born. I made my tagline “Not your momma’s macramé” because I work hard to be original. I use 100% cotton from suppliers who sell 100% recycled cord. I source my materials locally whenever possible. I love integrating vintage pots and baskets from local thrifters into my work. The wood that I use for my shelves is purchased raw from a man who cuts it in his backyard and then sanded and sealed by my husband. Each piece is a labor of love.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
A Tucson visit should definitely start with a stay at Hotel McCoy. Not only is each room one of a kind, but it’s literally a Tucson artist showcase! The staff is amazing, the location is convenient and they host lots of fun events in their lobby.

One of the best ways to start the day is with a hike, and Tucson is certainly not lacking awesome trails. Sabino Canyon is great and has some beginner friendly trails and Tanque Verde Falls is one of my absolute favorite hiking spots. Nothing beats a post hike brunch, and Le Buzz is my go-to. Their artichoke, sun-dried tomato quiche and honey lavender lattes are so good!

4th Ave. is an obvious draw, with its cool shops, bars and restaurants. While I enjoy the eclectic offerings, I also really enjoy the MSA Annex. It boasts some interesting shops, a bar, and one of my favorite restaurants – KUKAI. I love their ramen and sushi! If we’re lucky, her visit would coincide with the Soul Food Wednesday market, which is one of my favorite markets to not only attend, but also participate in as a vendor. Whatever the signature cocktail is for the event, it’s going to be delicious!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
The Tucson small business community is so special. I have a hard time picking one organization or person to shout out, because it’s so much more than that. The support that I’ve received from other vendors, my customers, small businesses, and family is extraordinary and is precisely the reason that my business continues to grow. The sharing of connections, resources and ideas. The return customers. The inspiration, guidance and feedback. It’s heartwarming. I hope to give back at least as much as I receive.

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