Annual Sponsor Spotlight: Meraki

Meraki (pronounced MEH-RÄ-KEE): 

“To do something with all of yourself (soul), passion, creativity, or love; when you leave a piece of yourself in your work.” 

When Christa Adymy and Tamarra Wickes were collaborating with other industry leaders to start a uniquely different consulting firm, specializing in all aspects of Commercial Furniture, they began with a shared vision: to change the status quo and create positive change in an industry that has not been re-evaluated in over five-decades. Through early engagement, education, transparency, and efficiency their teams focus on a holistic approach connecting design, real estate, construction, and procurement and thus, Meraki Consulting Group was born. They are “all in” with their creativity, extensive experience in pioneering design solutions, and strong passion for supporting people. February’s CREW Tampa Bay Annual Sponsor Spotlight shines its light on these two amazing entrepreneurs who emulate “Meraki,” by putting themselves, their souls, their passion, their creativity, and their love into their work, resulting in a success story where everyone wins. 

At Meraki Consulting Group: Christa is Founder, CEO, and Tammy is Principal, Founding Partner. Both these strong, independent women grew up and rooted their careers in New York. With an unwavering dedication to global exploration and cultural immersion, their career projects have helped reshape the landscape of cities and cultivated environments where each project serves as a testament to the transformative power of people and inspiration. Christa’s background in Business, English and Art Education led her to specialize in FF&E process design, product knowledge, and integration. Her notable career-markers include consulting for the Whitney Museum, Tavern on the Green, National Urban League, Sony Headquarters, Univision (Global), Fanatics (Global) and the Perez Art Museum; to name a few. Tammy’s background is grounded in architecture and interior design. She has achieved LEED, AP status, an IFMA award for Design and Construction of a Facility over 500,000 SF, and nominations such as Women of Valor. Both lead with a profound commitment to cultivating environments that reinforce the meaning of people, partnership, education, and experience. They work to teach and inspire others, build market share, create team structures, streamline processes, and ensure solid connections; all while smiling and having fun.  

Defining Success and Inspiration: Christa is inspired by the simplicity of freedom, fresh insights, and creativity; motivated by basic principles of being kind and doing the right thing. She encourages people to pursue their passions, stay balanced, and believes “if you can change your thoughts, you can change the world.” Emerson’s philosophy of success resonates with her, in how success comes from within and is defined by what it means to you. Tammy is driven by a desire to make a positive impact, investing in building relationships, and fostering collaboration. She fully believes that success is achieved when you have created that optimal balance-- finding happiness by doing what you love. They both recognize that people inspire people, and therefore reinforce, ‘we are better together.’ 

What Others May Not Know: Christa and Tammy both share separate international journeys across the globe, which have allowed them to experience a broad perspective of diverse cultures, designs, and customs. These influences are incorporated into their lives today. Christa knows that chapters in life cannot be planned, so she focuses on moments in time, and embraces change. Tammy’s travels have ignited her passion for learning other languages and exploring various cultural histories. Christa and Tammy met in the industry over 15 years ago and re-connected here in Tampa- St. Petersburg, which led to a renewed friendship and further anchored the creation of Meraki. 

Defining A Perfect Day: Though they are business partners, they are also friends. Christa lives on the beach, enjoying all elements of nature, the peaceful morning hours, boating, biking, and painting. Tammy enjoys creative projects, swimming, the beach, and live music. They are constantly surrounded by their favorite animals, friends, and family, while enjoying the beautiful Florida weather from sunrise to sunset. 

CREW Tampa Bay: Christa and Tammy (Tampa Tammy) recently joined CREW Tampa Bay. Meraki Consulting Group became a 2024 Annual Platinum Sponsor, and both are looking forward to stepping into various roles within the organization. They thank everyone for their immediate camaraderie, kindness, networking support, and look forward to the continued education, support, and friendships CREW has to offer in the future.