Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Calvelli.
Rachel, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
I worked in a boutique back in 2009 while I was attending Parsons School of Design in NYC. Being in that atmosphere inspired me to want to own my own shop one day. I went on to work for Bloomingdales as a visual display artist. My job was to create shops in the department store for the different brands they carried. I moved to Florida in 2012 and was very discouraged by the lack of good-paying creative jobs. It was really hard for me to find work down here. So, one day, just out of curiosity really, I contacted a local broker to see retail spaces in west palm beach. I ended up finding my first store’s location almost immediately! I knew once I walked into the space that I could start my business there. June 2016, I ended signing the lease and that was the beginning of Simplicity in Mind!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It has never been a smooth road, but everything always seems to work itself out! I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve wanted to quit, but something in me always tells me to keep going! I think the biggest struggle is trying to make ends meet on a month to month basis. Having a brick and mortar shop is extremely expensive, especially when employees are involved.
Simplicity in Mind – what should we know? What do you guys do best? What sets you apart from the competition?
I literally do everything! I consider myself a visual artist. I built my brand entirely on my own. From the store space, merchandising, set up, buying, window displays to our online presence- photography, graphic design, social media, etc. I do it all!
I think I have a very clear vision that sets me apart from others. I know exactly the type of woman I want to target and really make sure I’m portraying her lifestyle online and in store.
I am also a huge supporter of small businesses and source all of my inventory from other small businesses. I am in the process of transitioning everything I carry to ethically made merchandise. I prefer quality over quantity and also knowing that my money is being used to support another person’s dream.
What moment in your career do you look back most fondly on?
Honestly, I never give myself enough credit. I guess I’m proud of myself for taking the risk and opening my business, and not giving up when times get rough- but at the same time, I am nowhere near where I want to be yet!
Contact Info:
- Address: Pop Up shop:10300 Forest Hill Blvd #228
Wellington, FL 33414Studio showroom
200 S Olive Ave
West Palm Beach, FL 33401 - Website: www.simplicityinmind.com
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/simplicityinmind
Image Credit:
All images taken by me @rachelcalvelli, Photo of myself taken by Shaye Babb
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