Today we’d like to introduce you to Dina Capehart.
Dina, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I’ve always dreamt of having my own clothing boutique. I didn’t know what type, but I knew I wanted it to be something special. Born in Canada, which at that time was part of the British Commonwealth, I was heavily influenced by its fashion, music and their wicked sense of humor. As a result, I worked in the creative world of tv, advertising and pr.
At the age of 30, I had a wonderful opportunity to assist my brother to open up an art gallery in Palm Beach. Once I drove over that bridge, I never looked back. I found paradise. I eventually married the local society photographer and we had a daughter Lily. When she was 10yrs old, she developed a unique hobby that I thought was the “do what you love to do the most and success will follow” moment for her. She became internationally known as the “lizard whisperer” and we started a company called “Lizard-Ville”. Over time we realized it wasn’t about making money from the product but more about spreading kindness to all animals, even lizards.
During the years of being a “stay at home mom”, I found my passion and began collecting vintage and couture clothing. It was close to a milestone birthday when I happened to stumble into a furniture consignment store. The owner was looking to rent out the back section. My dream came true. Next thing I knew, I was calling friends to consign their things and along with some of my vintage collection, soon filled the 300 sq ft space. Within 5 months I had to relocate to accommodate both customers and new consignors. I’ve been here at the Gatsby building since then, and amazed by the positive response and repeat customers and consignors who share the same passion and taste for fab and funky fashion.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Generally, it’s been a smooth and exciting road. The struggles I encountered was learning the “business” side of running a store. From having employees to taxes and learning the financial end of things though all have ended up being learning experiences.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into the Dina C’s Fab & Funky Consignment Boutique story. Tell us more about the business.
My passion is vintage clothing, shoes & accessories. I look at my store as a rescue place for fashion from the 1940’s- 1990’s to current couture. Anything produced in the USA, Italy, France, Spain, S. America, Canada, Netherlands, Germany, Australia.
What I’m known for are my accessories. From a fab or funky jacket to chunky ear clips, a great handbag, cuff bracelets, headscarves or belts. I also love great fabrics. From a vintage brocade topper coat to a current floor length boucle coat. We also assist in styling. Whether it’s finding pieces for a certain look or helping build and coordinate their wardrobe. I would have to say what sets me apart from others is that I’m not really into “labels” but the “look”.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
What a great question!
I really believed in “Lizard-Ville” and the endless opportunities it had as a brand. However, with mounting bills and inexperience, I couldn’t find a way to sustain it.
It was only when I opened my boutique to help pay the bills, that I realized I had found my dream! I found my “do what you love to do the most and success will follow”.
Contact Info:
- Address: 1609 S. Dixie Hwy Ste. 2 “The Gatsby Building”
West Palm Beach, FL 33401 - Website: fabandfunkyvintage.com
- Phone: 561-659-1420
- Email: dinacfabandfunky@icloud.com
- Instagram: @dinacfabandfunky
- Facebook: DinaCs.fabandfunkyboutique
- Twitter: @DinaCsFabFunky
- Yelp: www.yelp.com/biz/dina-cs-fab-and-funky-consignment-boutique-west-palm-beach
- Other: poshmark.com/closet/dinacfabfunky
Getting in touch: VoyageMIA is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
