Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Tanja Percival. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
Tanja, looking forward to learning from your journey. You’ve got an amazing story and before we dive into that, let’s start with an important building block. Where do you get your work ethic from?
I get my work ethic from my parents, who are landed immigrants and the most hardworking people I know. When they came to this country, they arrived with just a few suitcases and started from scratch. It wasn’t just about building a life—they had to learn a new language, adapt to a new culture, and navigate a completely unfamiliar system, all while starting a family.
My dad worked full-time and has always been a visionary. He’s a creative thinker with a background in computer programming and design, and that creativity and drive has definitely influenced the way I approach my own business. My mom was a stay-at-home mom, but that title doesn’t begin to capture the strength and perseverance she showed every single day. She managed the household, raised two daughters, and created a life full of love and stability, even during the tough times and with little appreciation from her girls (we only see what she did for us now as adults ourselves)
Together, they taught me what it means to work hard, to push through challenges, and to take pride in the effort you put into everything you do. If you truest want something you have to work hard to achieve it. But they also taught me to find joy in the journey—to appreciate the beauty of the country they worked so hard to call home and to celebrate the victories along the way. Their example is the foundation of who I am and how I approach my work, my business, and my life
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
As a Laser Artist, and a solo female entrepreneur, my work blends precision with purpose. While “laser artist” can mean a lot of things, for me, it’s a tool I use to create pieces that help people and businesses celebrate life’s meaningful moments. Whether it’s custom name tags for a wedding, engraved awards for a company event, or personalized gifts for a milestone celebration. At the heart of it all is one question: how do we make someone feel seen and special? That’s what drives every piece I create—those little details that guests remember long after the event is over.
What excites me most is working with my clients in creating those small but powerful touches—the ones that spark conversation or become treasured keepsakes. I love knowing that something I designed became part of someone’s joyful memory.
Lately, I’ve been expanding my work with more corporate and event clients, creating branded pieces that reflect their identity while also elevating the guest experience. I’m also working on a new product line of pre-made drink charms. These reusable, themed charm sets are designed to make any gathering more fun and personal. and it’s a step toward a long-time dream of having my work featured in local shops and subscription boxes.
No matter what I’m creating, it’s about connection—it’s about making people feel special.
If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?
Looking back, three things have really shaped my journey: passion, community, and organization. First, passion truly is a skill. It’s what gets you through the exciting days, the tough ones, and even the slow, boring ones. If you’re deeply connected to why you’re doing what you’re doing, that drive will carry you through everything else. Second, as an introvert, I didn’t realize how essential community would be. I started out solo, just selling on Etsy, but as I grew and wanted to connect with local customers and businesses, I learned how powerful it is to have people in your corner—whether they’re fellow business owners, supportive customers, or friends who cheer you on. And finally, organization is absolutely key—especially if you’re doing this all on your own. There are so many moving parts in a small business: orders, taxes, emails, materials, deadlines. Find a system that works for you and stick with it. It doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s, but staying organized can truly make or break your momentum. I have a project management professional certification from my former corporate job and I can’t say how much that has helped me over the years.
My advice to anyone just starting out: stay connected to your “why,” don’t be afraid to reach out and build your circle, and set yourself up with systems that support your growth. It takes time, but it’s so worth it.
Okay, so before we go we always love to ask if you are looking for folks to partner or collaborate with?
Absolutely—I’m always open and wanting to partner and collaborate with others. Some of my favorite projects have come from working alongside passionate individuals and businesses who are looking to bring something truly special to life. Whether it’s a custom piece for an event, branded merchandise for a small business, or a creative collaboration that pushes us both to try something new, I love the process of co-creating with others.
What excites me most is when a collaboration is mutually uplifting—when I can help elevate someone’s vision through thoughtful, personalized design, and they, in turn, help shine a light on the work I do. That kind of synergy is where the real magic happens.
If you’re someone who values creativity, craftsmanship, and collaboration—and you’re looking for a partner who will treat your idea with care and intention—I’d love to connect. You can reach me through Instagram @kitsandcrates, by email kitsandcrates@gmail,com, or directly through my website www.kitsandcrates.com
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Www.kitsandcrates.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kitsandcrates/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Kits-Crates-61566524644407/
- Linkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/tanja-percival-pmp-a7b489209
Image Credits
Some photos taken by Mallory at Click Happy Photography
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
