Today we’d like to introduce you to Nkiru Vance.
Hi Nkiru, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I started making Snifflecouches back in college, when they were nothing more than a fun, crafty hobby. I never imagined they would become anything more—until people began asking, “What are those and how much are they?” I will admit, not many people who come across a Snifflecouch can identify it’s use initially but once they discover it, they are fascinated! A box of tissues disguised as a chic, esthetically pleasing, modern couch.
After graduation, I decided to take that momentum seriously. I began selling to teachers and small businesses, often meeting people who immediately connected with the playful charm of each piece. As an educator myself, many fellow teachers asked for personalized Snifflecouches for their classrooms and even ordered custom designs for loved ones. Those moments reminded me that creativity is meant to be shared.
Snifflecouch has grown from a joyful pastime into a brand rooted in connection, expression, and delight. Creating each one still brings me genuine joy—and knowing that joy extends to my customers is what keeps me going. My dream is to continue growing Snifflecouch into a household name, one uniquely crafted piece at a time, so that everyone can one day experience the magic of owning their very own Snifflecouch.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
The road hasn’t been completely smooth. Like any business, Snifflecouch has experienced both high points and quiet seasons. Our lulls often came from trying to keep up with increasing demand and still protecting time for my young family. I tried to use a manufacturer to help keep up with demand but I quickly realized that the hand-crafted custom product was more in demand. At one point, I had to step away from the business entirely to manage the realities of life.
Coming back after that hiatus was its own challenge. Restarting requires courage—especially with self-doubt and everyday pressures still close by. But pushing through those hurdles taught me that passion doesn’t disappear; sometimes it simply waits for us to return with renewed strength.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
On the surface, I am an educator, wife, and mother who enjoys creating and working with my hands.
At my core, I’m an artist and maker who loves transforming simple materials into pieces that spark joy. Snifflecouch is the creative space where my imagination takes shape—where color, texture, and whimsy come together to create something comforting, personal, and unexpected. I specialize in handcrafted, custom-made pieces that feel alive with personality. Every Snifflecouch has its own story, and I think that’s what people connect with most.
I’m known for designs that feel warm, playful, and deeply intentional. I don’t just create an object; I create an experience. Whether I’m making a piece for a classroom, a child’s room, or a business, I think about how it will make someone feel the moment they see it. My background in education also influences my work—I bring that same sense of purpose, empathy, and creativity to everything I make.
What I’m most proud of is remaining true to my artistic voice. Even as life has pulled me in new directions, I’ve held onto the joy that first inspired Snifflecouch. Returning to my craft after taking time away reminded me that creativity is not something you lose—it’s something that waits patiently for you to give it space again.
What sets me apart is the heart behind every creation. My work is not rushed or mass-produced. It’s handcrafted, intentional, and deeply personal. I approach each piece like an artist approaches a canvas—with curiosity, emotion, and a desire to make something meaningful. Snifflecouch stands out because it blends artistry with comfort, imagination with usefulness, and the practical with the magical.
At the end of the day, I create because it brings me joy—and I hope each Snifflecouch brings a little of that joy to everyone who encounters it.
What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
What I love most about our city is the sense of community and cultural richness that surrounds you everywhere you go. There’s a warmth here—whether you’re at a local market, a school event, a church gathering, or a neighborhood festival—that makes people feel connected. I appreciate how diverse the city is, not just in backgrounds, but in perspectives, creativity, and opportunities. It’s a place where families can thrive, where small businesses can grow, and where community feels like more than just a word.
What I like least is how quickly the city is expanding and the challenges that come with that growth. Traffic, construction, and rising costs can make everyday life feel a little overwhelming at times. But even with those challenges, the heart of the city—the people, the culture, the sense of belonging—still outweighs the inconveniences.
Overall, it’s the combination of community, diversity, and opportunity that makes me proud to call this place home.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.snifflecouch.com
