Small business, big community impact

According to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 99.9% of businesses in the United States are small businesses. While big-box retailers often dominate the headlines during the holiday shopping season, it is the small, locally owned enterprises that form the economic backbone of communities like Fostoria. Since 2020, the nation has seen a historic surge in entrepreneurship. Applications to start new businesses have doubled, with more than 5 million filed annually. In Ohio alone, 148,623 new business applications were filed in 2023. This resurgence is evident in Fostoria, where programs like Co.Starters and the LAUNCH Fostoria Business Competition are helping transform empty storefronts into thriving local staples. A new addition to downtown Rochelle Coffman, co-owner of A Mom N Pop Tattoo Shop, is part of this new wave of local entrepreneurs. She credits the Co.Starters class she took in 2022 with providing the foundation she and her husband, Justin Coffman, needed to launch their business. The couple opened the shop in July 2024 with two goals: creating a flexible schedule for their family and providing a safe, clean environment for artists and clients. While they initially considered Findlay, the Coffmans found the larger city expensive and saturated. They realized Fostoria offered a central location and a community eager for local investment. They found a downtown space that was move-in ready and within budget. Being the only tattoo shop in Fostoria is a privilege, Rochelle Coffman said, adding that they are proud to serve as the town's local spot for quality work. Building a team To bring their vision to life, the couple partnered with fellow artists Jesus Guzman and Kristen Shadle, who shared their work ethic. While Justin and Rochelle Coffman handled the legal responsibilities, the physical creation of the shop — planning, cleaning, painting and finishing touches — was a team effort. The staff has since grown to include artist Mahala Mahler. A Mom N Pop Tattoo Shop offers both appointments and walk-ins, covering styles ranging from fine line and illustrative to realism and black and gray. Rochelle Coffman noted that the shop lives up to its name by prioritizing a warm, welcoming dynamic. She said the best part of operating in Fostoria is the small-town support. About half of their clients live in town; for those visiting from out of town, the staff actively promotes other local businesses to visit while they are in the area. The reality of small business Like many small businesses highlighted during this season, the shop faces economic fluctuations. Rochelle Coffman explained that because tattoos are a luxury service, demand shifts with household budgets. The shop typically sees a surge in appointments from February through May, coinciding with tax season. However, when budgets tighten, appointments naturally slow down. She said the key to navigating these fluctuations is maintaining strong communication within the team and brainstorming solutions together. For aspiring entrepreneurs, Justin Coffman offered advice on staying relevant in a digital age: "Social media is the new Main Street. Keep posting and stay engaged." Support local A Mom N Pop Tattoo Shop is located at 119 W. Center St. Hours are 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. To celebrate the holiday season, the shop will run a promotion for gift certificates beginning on Black Friday and running through Christmas: for every $100 spent, an additional $50 will be added, up to $500.