Today we’d like to introduce you to Naci Atchley.
Hi Naci, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
My store started as a passion, mainly for shopping for small boutiques for my children. I have two girls, Bristol 7, and Ceattle 8, styling them and having them look cute has always been something that I truly enjoyed since they were babies. However, being on a teacher’s salary it was never easy finding stylish clothes at affordable prices that made them stand out. When we moved to Navasota we quickly realized the need for children’s clothes and accessories without having to drive 30-plus miles.
After launching online this summer, God put it on my heart to pursue it full-time. I was falling in love with this community and what it stood for and wanted to help provide for the community. After a few hiccups, our current location opened up for availability. I received advice from local business owners, prayed over the building and God provided. Our doors opened on September 29th, 2022. The support from this community has been such a blessing and we could not have grown this far without their help.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
After seeing my current location one time, I loved it. However, God quickly shut that door when someone came in and decided they needed it more. I was devastated but trusted in God’s plan. I continued trying to grow my online business while still teaching. A few weeks later I received a phone call that the other business-backed out. I was excited yet fearful. I went on a Saturday to see it one more time, sat, and prayed for him to direct my path. I signed the lease that Monday! Getting the building ready was no easy task.
I wanted to be open for our local Sip and Shop that was coming in 3 short weeks. With the help of great friends and long hours, we turned my vision into a storefront. Inventory was extremely low but we managed to open and have a successful Sip and Shop which was a great introduction to our community.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
After being a teacher for 10 years, and having two girls of my own I feel like I have a pretty good sense of styles that children like. I originally had kid’s clothing starting at 7 years and older.
After receiving feedback from the community we started carrying children’s clothes from 2T to Youth X-Larges. We have a wide variety of sizes to help accommodate families with several children. Our goal is to be a one-stop shop for families and give the boutique experience without normal boutique prices.
Before we let you go, we’ve got to ask if you have any advice for those who are just starting out.
I would say trust yourself, trust your process and trust God.
There will be good days and bad days, even bad weeks. I’m still learning this even a few months in. Consistency is key and knowing your buyers is even more important. I love seeking advice from other boutique and business owners, and building that supporting network has been so helpful.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.railroadjunctionboutique.com
- Instagram: @railroad_junction_boutique
- Facebook: @railroadjunctionchildrensboutique
