Mariko Tanaka is a Brooklyn based studio specializing in one of a kind, functional handmade ceramics

I’m the founder of Rabbit and Dragon, a small Brooklyn based studio specializing in one of a kind, functional handmade ceramics, specifically in homeware and tableware. I fulfill wholesale and custom orders for clients including Small Home, Brooklyn Botanical Gardens, Fab.com, Urban Outfitters among others. In addition, R+D Studio regularly collaborates with other makers and designers to produce glassware, textiles, and limited edition prints. 

What is the scariest thing that happened to you while being an entrepreneur (that you can share)? How did you overcome it? What did you learn? 

Starting a new business is a leap of faith into the unknown.  It can be scary in the beginning to put yourself out there and believe that you are providing something that other people would be interested in. The first pop-up show I ever did in New York, was that kind of experience.  For several years, I had been making functional ceramics on my own in the studio, and this was the first introduction I had to selling my work in public.  I learned that people were in fact excited to come across my work and learn about my process. This experience propelled me to take it further and start my own brand eventually.

Is there one “rookie mistake” that new entrepreneurs keep on making? What is it? Did it happen to you?

Yes, definitely the first time I had a large wholesale order from a big client, I was asked to design and produce custom ceramic pieces in large quantities with a very short lead time. I spent weeks working late into the night and into the weekends to fulfill the order and was exhausted.  An important rookie lesson I learned is to give yourself the time you need to create the best product possible, even if means speaking up and telling a client that you’ll need more time before you start. It’s always a better outcome, less stress, and I even try to add some buffer time in case anything might go wrong now.

What does competition mean to you?

Competition can be a good motivator, it’s important to stay informed and know of what’s happening in the marketplace and in the field.  I’m also a design oriented person, so I like to see what others are creating, but most important is to not stop pushing boundaries and challenging yourself.

What is your proudest accomplishment in 2016? What’s the biggest goal for 2017?

I’m very proud to have my  works featured in some great publications in 2016, such as Vogue, Goop Holiday Gift Guide, Brooklyn Magazine’s 100 Brooklyn Design Objects We Love, and Coastal Magazine.  My biggest goal for 2017 is creating a new line of sculptural home decor, and applying for a trade show. In addition, I would love  to collaborate with a chef and test out my custom dinnerware for a special pop up event!