Small Business Blog

What’s the secret to growing a thriving brand online in today’s ever-changing digital world—and how can small businesses stand out? Peg Fitzpatrick, acclaimed author of The Art of Small Business Social Media: A Blueprint for Marketing Success, joins us today to break it all down. Drawing from her own experience moving from traditional marketing to social media mastery, Peg shares expert insights on growing a thriving brand online. Listen in as she explains how small business and boutique owners can identify their ideal customers, create content that truly resonates, and more.

How does a personal gift idea quickly evolve into a thriving brand? Just ask Annabelle DeGrazio, a former lawyer turned entrepreneur, who joins us today to share her inspiring journey of launching a distinctive candle business from scratch. With no prior experience in candle-making, Annabelle committed to learning every aspect of in-house production to ensure top-tier quality and built a successful business. Her story highlights the power of finding a niche and embracing opportunities as they come, and it’s one you won’t want to miss! 

Ready to make smarter inventory decisions? In this episode of Boutique Chat, we’re joined by our very own Samantha Conner, Director of Wholesale at The Boutique Hub, to break down the pros, cons, and strategies behind shopping in-person at market vs. buying online through platforms like Hubventory. We’re sharing how to prep like a pro, use tools like the Boutique Hub’s market must-see lists, and build brand relationships that fuel long-term success. 

How do you go from shaping careers to reshaping the fashion industry for plus-size women? Just ask Tracy Christian, the visionary founder of Sante Grace! She joins the show today to share her remarkable journey from talent agent to luxury plus-size apparel designer. Her story is not just about launching a brand—it’s about challenging industry norms and filling a much-needed gap in the market with high-quality, sustainable clothing that truly empowers women of all shapes and sizes.

What’s the secret to growing a successful business while staying true to your roots? Join me as I chat with Kimmy Almon, founder of Kimmy’s Boutique, about her journey from side hustler to boutique owner. Starting in 2014 with online and pop-up shops—while juggling a full-time teaching career—Kimmy took a bold leap into brick-and-mortar retail. With deep ties to Waxahachie and Galveston, she reveals how her community connections and personal values fueled an unexpected yet rewarding expansion.

What does it take to turn a small astrology bookstore into a thriving retail destination? Joining the show today is Denise Welling, owner of Body Mind & Soul in Houston, who shares how she did just that. Offering insights on adapting to market trends and evolving consumer interests, Denise discusses how cultural shifts have influenced retail success and how she has created a holistic customer experience that fosters community engagement and long-term business growth.

What does it take to become an entrepreneurial powerhouse in the retail world? Tony Chinn, a seasoned retail expert, joins us today to share his incredible journey from starting as a greeter at Guess to launching his own successful entrepreneurial venture. With experience at iconic brands like BB, Kitson, Forever 21, Agassi, and Akira, Tony’s story is a testament to the power of intention and vision boards when it comes to achieving lasting success. Listen in to hear practical advice for retailers and insights into maximizing retail success.

What does it take to build a thriving business while staying true to family values and legacy? In today’s episode, live from the Dallas Market Center, I’m joined by Marty and Claudia Leon as they take us through the rich history of the building and their own business evolution. As a family deeply rooted in both the industry and the space, their insights are not only valuable but truly inspiring. Listen in as they open up about the dynamics of working as a family, finding the right balance and setting boundaries, and mastering successful, consistent marketing strategies. 

Want to save money, save time, be better at content creation, and be a better boss? Who doesn’t? Today, I’m joined by my friend Kinsey Soderberg, owner of Feel Good Social and Authentic AI, and we’re digging into all the different ways you can use AI to make your life easier. She sheds light on how she has been working to find a healthy balance with using AI tools that allows for better productivity without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

What does it take to build a thriving business while staying true to family values and legacy? In today’s episode, live from the Dallas Market Center, I’m joined by Marty and Claudia Leon as they take us through the rich history of the building and their own business evolution. As a family deeply rooted in both the industry and the space, their insights are not only valuable but truly inspiring. Listen in as they open up about the dynamics of working as a family, finding the right balance and setting boundaries, and mastering successful, consistent marketing strategies.