Interview with Nick Sambrato from Mama's Sauce

For my interview I chose to interview Nick Sambrato, the owner and founder of Mama’s Sauce. Mama’s Sauce is a boutique print shop located in downtown Orlando that dedicates itself to only using the finest water and soy-based inks and cleaning products. It employs designers who truly have a passion for the design process of business cards, show posters, t-shirts, wedding invitations, etc. Mama’s Sauce also has a very interactive website where an order can be placed. It also features a blog and online store with a range of their own limited edition products.

The Mama’s Sauce team is a young group of print and design fanatics who have a drive and passion for what they do. This adds to the fun-working environment they have established. They are also very personable with their clientele so it is more like a family than your normal customer-business relationship. There is sense of community with this company, as it acts like a hub for creative people to come to and explore new things.

One of the biggest challenges Nick faced starting his company was committing. As soon as Nick said out loud he was going to do this he realized he actually has to commit physically, emotionally, spiritually, and mentally and birth this business. There was no negotiation with anyone, except himself. He told himself to just do it. Nick describes challenges as something that put you the test instead of being a hurdle. A challenge makes you stronger and prepares you not to make specific mistakes again in the future so you can build your business stronger instead of taking two (2) steps forward and one (1) step back.

I asked Nick how he prefers to negotiate with customers and contractors since he has to deal with them on a day-to-day basis. From his response I realized affiliation was very important to him because face-to-face conversation reduces personal distance so it’s easier to avoid stereotyping and other misconceptions. Nick is the owner of a business and acts professional on all levels, so when it comes to negotiating with your clientele and contractors, it’s key to always do it in person if possible. These ads to the personal touch his business focuses on so much.

The greatest advice I got from nick was to be true to yourself when negotiating. Be prepared and know what you want. Depending on the negotiating, in the end you’re selling yourself and that’s why it’s key to be professional. In the beginning of your career, it’s always wise not to be too aggressive if negotiating with someone. Depending on the issue, it’s better to think logically, ask for advice and try to achieve mutual gain. As a young adult entering the working world, I thought this was great negotiating advice from Nick.

Have a look at the Mama's Sauce website HERE