Nicole Zettlemoyer is a veteran of both the Air Force and the Marine Corps. But those aren’t the only titles she holds. She is also a musician, black belt martial arts instructor, master resiliency trainer, victim advocate, active-duty military spouse, mother and key spouse mentor.
And in 2020, Zettlemoyer added “entrepreneur” to her already impressive resume.
Wreaths by Nicole P upcycles military uniforms, turning them into masterpieces for customers all over the world. Zettlemoyer’s business is a memorable and creative way to not only preserve military uniforms but also honor them.
Setting the standard
The main reason her business began was due to encouragement from her mom.
“She’s always been the craft queen… I was lucky enough to collaborate with her when I made my first wreath,” Zettlemoyer said.
Sadly, her mom was diagnosed with stage four ovarian cancer shortly after Wreaths by Nicole P took off. Even though she has since passed, each top-quality creation keeps her close.
“Every wreath I create carries a little piece of her with it. It’s just another reason I make sure each wreath is held to a high standard.”
The process
Creating the wreaths takes two to three hours depending on their size. Even though she loves creating detailed wreaths, Zettlemoyer admitted her favorites are usually the simple ones.
While she uses old uniforms to make the wreaths, it’s okay if customers don’t have their own to offer. Zettlemoyer has plenty of spare uniforms that have been generously given by other customers.
“The premise of the business is that customers can send in their own uniforms. But they can also donate old, unwanted uniforms as well. This allows me to create wreaths for everyone, even if they do not have a uniform to send,” she said.
Passing on her knowledge
For those looking to start a similar business, Zettlemoyer shared some advice. First, see if the market needs your product.
“I was lucky enough to go viral, and seeing the positive outpouring of responses made it clear this was something the market ‘needed.’ It was unique enough to thrive,” she said.
After that, she advised to just be authentic.
“People love seeing a face behind the business. I’m not saying you have to blast your life to everyone. However, when people hear your story, they’re more inclined to want to support it.”
Duty, honor, respect
As a veteran herself, Zettlemoyer more than understands the impact of creating a product with meaning.
“I have played in hundreds of ceremonies. From retirements, promotions, and even funerals, the military is really great at highlighting its veterans… I can affirm that America loves its veterans… I am continually honored when people entrust their uniforms to me.”
Because she understands the importance of military service and honoring veterans, every creation is made with the utmost of respect.
“My whole career in the military was about honoring active duty and veterans. Why not continue that with this business?” Zettlemoyer said.
