Emma Claire Thompson, a sophomore finance and marketing double major, is the owner of The Etc. Shop. What started as a creative hobby has grown into a thriving small business fueled by her resourcefulness, entrepreneurial spirit and love for crafting meaningful, personalized products. The Etc. Shop offers custom apparel, stickers, cups and more.
What is the story of your company? How did it start?
My business, The Etc. Shop, began when I received a Silhouette Cameo, a vinyl cutter, for Christmas. I never intended to start a business when I asked for the machine—I simply enjoyed making shirts and other personalized items for friends and family as gifts. Over time, people began asking me to create items for profit. As I navigated this new venture as a completely clueless teenager, I found myself falling in love with business. For several years, my small operation focused solely on vinyl and ran from the floor of my bedroom. Eventually, I noticed a growing demand for monogrammed items, something I couldn’t offer at the time. That realization pushed me to research embroidery machines—a major step for my small business.
I started with a basic machine, then upgraded as embroidery became my primary focus. Later, I expanded further with a larger machine and additional capabilities. Today, The Etc. Shop offers vinyl, embroidery, and sublimation—each used for different purposes. As my business grew, I recognized the need for a website, which led to forming an LLC. Looking back, I never imagined a simple Christmas gift would spark a deep passion for entrepreneurship and fuel such meaningful growth.
Why did you want to join Samford Startup?
I wanted to join the Samford Startup program for several reasons. First, I’m excited about the sense of community within the program. Up to this point, I haven’t had any help or advice with running my business, so I can’t wait to experience that group aspect. I’m also looking forward to hearing from the speakers who will share their insights and guidance. I know I’ll benefit greatly from the wisdom of experienced business owners and those knowledgeable in specific fields. I’m thrilled to finally have a space on campus where I can operate my business. So far in college, I’ve had to run it from home since I couldn’t do so from my dorm. For all these reasons and more, I’m so excited to be part of the Samford Startup program.
What has been the most challenging part of launching your business? How did you overcome this?
The most challenging part of launching my business was the lack of knowledge I had going into it. I was a teenager with no idea what I was doing, and my family had no experience with owning a business. Whenever I faced problems or wasn’t sure how to handle something, I turned to research, reading, and a lot of trial and error. While that process taught me a great deal, it wasn’t always the most efficient use of time or resources.
What do you envision for your business?
I would love to make my business something I could live off. Ideally, I would love to run my business from my home while hopefully being a wife and mother. I would like to have my business as extra income or sole financial support if there came a time that was needed.
How do you see your company having an impact on the Samford and Birmingham communities?
Because I own all the resources within my business, I’ve had the freedom to use them in ways that make a difference. One experience that stands out to me was in high school when a friend’s mom was battling cancer. I was able to use my business to host a fundraiser that helped offset some of their expenses. I would love to do similar projects at Samford or in the greater Birmingham area to give back and support those in need.
Why would you encourage other student entrepreneurs to join the Samford Startup program?
I would encourage any entrepreneur to apply for Samford Startup. I am so excited to see what all I learn from this program and how I am able to grow my business with that knowledge.
Learn more about The Etc. Shop
