Meet Jaime Martin of Cultured Threads
Happy Boss Babe Wednesday! I’m thrilled to introduce you to a Boss Mom of 4 who is also a competitive tennis player and the Owner of a cute & curated boutique called Cultured Threads in Valrico. Jaime is originally from Long Island, but moved to Boston for 15 years to start a life & family with her husband. After having left Boston just a few years ago, she misses the city she called home, but finds pieces of what she loved about Boston all over Tampa, including Hyde Park Village. Something that Tampa has that Boston simply did not, was community. Jaime said she received nothing but the full support of other local business owners here, and that has made all the difference as she started her new journey as an entrepreneur. Jaime’s boutique originally opened in her home and has grown into a retail space, but what’s remained the same is her commitment to her customers. As “the honest girlfriend”, she’ll never let a woman leave her shop unless she truly looks her best. Jaime has also used customer feedback to her advantage and broadened the styles of clothing she offers so she can accommodate everything from flowy, bohemian vibes to fitted, chic looks. I hope you enjoy her warm spirit, words of wisdom, & honesty about raising a family, running a business, & trying to stay human. Enjoy her words & stay boss. xx
-G
Tell us about yourself and what you do!
I am a mom of four who LOVES fashion! I am a big city girl at heart but have grown to love living here in Tampa. I decided to follow my passion and open a women's clothing and accessory boutique.
How did your business begin?
I saw a HUGE need to bring trendy, high quality clothes at amazing prices to this area. I originally started selling clothes out of my home by appointment only. Through the support of my family, friends and community, I was able to open my own "tiny boutique". I decided to keep my space small so my overhead costs would remain low. This allows me to offer an affordable price point. It's the best of both worlds!
What’s 1 challenge you’ve faced and 1 success you’ve had since you’ve created your business?
One challenge I have faced is trying to stay relevant on social media. I feel like I am fighting an uphill battle every single day. I just keep doing my research and plowing through. One success I have experienced is opening my own store front.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received and has it come in handy for you?
The best advice I have received so far is to collect my customer’s emails at checkout. This allows me to create a direct email marketing campaign without having to worry about the social media algorithms. I have seen an increase in my sales since taking these words of wisdom into consideration.
When are you at your happiest?
I am at my happiest when vacationing with my family. I love the down time!
What do you tell yourself when things get difficult?
Stay strong and continue moving forward. If something doesn't work, learn from it and move on!
What are you grateful for?
My LIFE! I have an amazing support system. I am so grateful everyday that I was able to pursue my passion.
What’s 1 personal goal and 1 business goal you plan to accomplish this year?
My personal goal is to run the Boston Marathon. My business goal is to make every woman that comes into my shop feel beautiful and special.
Where can you be found on a Tuesday afternoon?
Playing tennis.
Where can we find you on a Friday evening?
In my pajamas on the couch.
Where can you be found on a Sunday morning?
On my boat or at the beach.
Finish this sentence:
I love: root beer floats.
I’m always looking for: my kids.
My inspiration is: my mom.
I’ll never: skydive.