Discover the story behind the fashion business, Five Loves Boutique, in our exclusive interview with Maria! Learn how she curates stylish, size-inclusive clothing and accessories for all shapes and sizes. Read more!
An Interview with Fashion Business Entrepreneur, Maria
- Where are you located? What does your family look like? Humans and not.
I live in Fort Dodge with my husband and 5 children. We also have a dog named Birdie. She’s a pitbull lab mix.
- Iowa State Cyclones or Iowa Hawkeyes? (Or favorite team?)
I really do not have a favorite team.
- How has your business evolved over time?
I have only been doing this for three years. I am still learning a lot, from setting up at markets to what people like and prefer. I am also working on social media and updating my website.
- What made you decide to start this business?
I started because I wanted to interact more with others and offer people different clothing options. Not just clothing but accessories as well, especially in a small town.
- Why has this been a good fit for you?
I have had the opportunity to meet so many great individuals that share the same passion.
- If you could choose one treat what would it be?
A treat I would enjoy is a family vacation. LoL
- What have been some struggles with starting this business?
A major struggle has been getting enough exposure.
- What has been the most rewarding part of your business?
The most rewarding thing is when people recognize me while I am out and tell me how much they like an item they purchased from me or compliments they receive.
- Beach or mountain? Why?
The beach. It is peaceful.
- How do you do what you do with your business? How does it work?
I pay attention to trends. I like to know what styles people like. I like to include trends for everyone.
- What hasn’t worked?
Having my business “online only” is sometimes difficult because people do not have the ability to see all the products I offer.
- What else are you doing that is awesome?
Um… I am a wife. We have been married for almost 21 years this coming June. I am a mother of 5. My oldest is Daniela and she graduates this year. My second oldest is Jesus and he is a Junior. My third kiddo is Marisol and she’s in 7th grade. Then there is Mateo who’s 5 and is in kindergarten. Finally, Rosario who is 3 and he will soon attend preschool. I also have a full time job.
- What have you learned now that you didn’t know before?
Having a business is not as easy as it seems.
- Favorite thing to do in your free time?
I enjoy going to the gym
- What piece of advice would you give to yourself when you started this business?
Everything takes time. Take one step at a time to build something.
- What is the next thing you are wanting to pursue?
I would love for my business to keep growing and be steady.
- Favorite thing to make for dinner?
I do not have a favorite meal to cook. Everyone just eats what I cook, which is nice.
- How do we find out more about you? Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, Etsy. Give me all of the ways to see your business/products!
Check out my Five Loves Boutique Facebook to see where I’ll be at!
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