In this powerful episode, host Monica Fullerton sits down with Nicole, founder of Wreaths by Nicole, former Marine and Air Force musician, and now a proud military spouse and entrepreneur. Nicole shares her one-of-a-kind journey from performing in military bands to creating handcrafted wreaths made from upcycled uniforms—wreaths that now adorn doors across the country and tell the stories of service, remembrance, and pride.

What started as a creative outlet during the pandemic quickly grew into a full-time business featured on People Magazine, Saks, CBS This Morning, and more. Nicole talks candidly about what it was like transitioning out of active duty, rediscovering herself through art, and building a business without a roadmap—all while raising her family and honoring the community she loves.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Nicole's journey from Marine musician to Air Force master resiliency trainer to creative entrepreneur
• How a single wreath made from an old uniform became a national story
• The emotional power of creating memorial and deployment wreaths for military families
• Navigating the transition from active duty to "just the spouse" and learning to embrace new seasons
• Authenticity in entrepreneurship, why "done" is better than "perfect," and learning as you go
• Tips for setting boundaries, embracing imperfection, and giving yourself permission to pause

🛍 Featured Brand:

Wreaths by Nicole

Meaningful wreaths crafted from uniforms and filled with story, service, and sentiment.

✨ Shop on Spousely

📱 Follow Nicole: @wreathsbynicole

🙌 Special Thanks:

Huge thanks to our season sponsor, US Bank and Elavon, for their continued support of small business owners through the Small Business, Big Ambition initiative. Learn more and enter to win a $3,000 business grant at Small Business, Big Ambition.

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