For many, printing is just ink on paper. But for Maria Caram, owner of Minuteman Press in Mendota Heights, it’s a way to connect with customers, solve problems, and bring ideas to life. Originally from the Dominican Republic, Maria never imagined owning a print shop one day—but her journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and a love for learning.
The Journey of Business Ownership
Maria first came to Minnesota in 1985 as an exchange student at the University of Minnesota, where she studied computer science. Her initial career path led her to the corporate world, including a long tenure in database management at Northwest and Delta Airlines. After retiring from the airline industry, she wasn’t ready to stop working. She first explored entrepreneurship through a successful cigar-rolling business. But Maria soon found herself searching for something more.
“I wanted something I could do full-time, year-round,” she recalls. Leveraging her own experience designing materials for her cigar business, she decided to invest in a Minuteman Press franchise. The Mendota Heights location had already been established for about a decade, but she stepped in to take ownership two years ago, embracing the challenge of running a small business.
From day one, Maria immersed herself in the world of printing, learning the latest techniques, understanding customer preferences, and building a team that shared her vision.
Challenges and Triumphs
Like any business owner, Maria faced obstacles when she started. “I assumed it was as simple as pressing ‘print,’ but it involves much more,” she admits. “Each design requires adjustments, templates, multiple software programs, cutting, and fine-tuning to ensure the printer produces exactly what we need.”
When it comes to competing with large online print providers, Maria explains, “There’s something special about working with customers directly, making sure they get exactly what they need. We’re not just an online store where you upload a file and hope for the best. We ask questions, make recommendations, and take pride in helping our customers put their best foot forward.”
Despite the challenges, she finds joy in the tangible nature of printing. “Seeing something go from a digital file to a beautifully printed product—it’s rewarding.”
Maria is passionate about fostering connections. “I always tell people: work hard, make connections, and maintain them. Those relationships will become your support system, both personally and professionally.”
“The biggest lesson I’ve learned is to stay adaptable. Print is constantly evolving, and so are the needs of our customers. We stay ahead by offering innovative solutions and maintaining strong relationships with our clients,” she shares.
Despite the challenges, the rewards have been even greater. Seeing a client’s face light up when they receive their finished product or hearing how a well-designed piece helped a business grow is what fuels her passion every day.
“Print isn’t going anywhere,” she said with a smile. “It’s evolving, and we’re evolving with it.”
Family First
Outside of work, Maria is passionate about her three sons. “I look for any excuse to see them whenever they call.” She is also an avid pickleball player and enjoys the fun and new friendships that come with playing with different groups of people.
When asked about what advice she would give her younger self, Maria responded, “The one thing we can be certain of in life is that things change, but be open to it because in the end, with some faith, everything will fall into place. Every experience will shape you into a better person.”
With her leadership, dedication, and unwavering commitment to quality and service, Minuteman Press in Mendota Heights is set to continue making a lasting impact—one print job at a time.