Today we’d like to introduce you to Cassandra Cruz.
Hi Cassandra, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today.
My name is Cassandra, Cassie for short, and that is where the boutique’s name stems from, Cassie N Classy Boutique.I have a loving partner, and we have 2 little boys. I also work full time Monday-Friday, and I enjoy running my boutique on evenings and weekends. . When I initially started, I was selling ColorStreet at pop-up markets. While I was at these markets, I noticed that a good handful of the clothing boutiques did not carry my size.
Then, I had this little idea. I wanted to open the boutique to be size-inclusive and budget-friendly, so the boutique was established November of 2021, with just doing local pop-up markets around town. I hopped from Tomball, Cypress, Katy, Pasadena, and Montrose. At first, it was a mess, and I was all over the place, but as time has passed, I found my footing, and now I do markets a few times a month and manage both store fronts.
This year I opened my first shop with Painted Tree Boutiques in Sugarland; we are located in Booth space B1. My loving partner supports me, and with that, we opened up our second shop with Painted Tree Boutiques in Cinco Ranch; we are in booth space A10. I still do local markets a few times a month in Katy, Cypress, and Tomball area.
This little boutique has grown so much this year, and I am truly proud to see where it goes next.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
At first, it was trial by error, and once I found my groove it was amazing to see many clients’ positive reaction to the quality, the prices, and styles of all the clothing.
Going back to when I say it was trial by error, I truly mean it: I would get clothes that are 4 sizes too small, and some clothes were torn. It was a mess and so stressful. Now that I found my footing I curate my collection from local women’s own businesses that provide great quality of clothing.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
For over 6 years now, I have been a consultant for Pure Romance, and they taught me a lot about how to empower and educate women. I translate it to my business; I want people to feel good, along with looking and be comfortable in the clothes I am offering.
With the Boutique, I carry blouses, dresses, rompers, holiday theme t-shirts, and lingerie that are size-inclusive. That range from small to 3xl.
Now that I have a better grasp on my inventory, I ensure that everything is of nice quality and within reason for the everyday shopper.
When people take the time to meet me at markets, they can see the love and care I take in helping them pick out something that is right for them.
How do you think about luck?
Some people may say luck does not play any part in life/business, but it honestly does. With a little bit of hard work and luck you can go far.
So, I would say a lot of it is luck. I was very lucky to get into some markets and meet the right people to help me find other markets that help expand my opportunities.
I am very lucky to find a life partner to support me and help in any way he can. Like taking care of our kids while I go out every weekend to grow my boutique.
I am very lucky to have a family that is fully supportive of my endeavors and are willing to be there to help me.
Pricing:
- All Clothing $14-$30
Contact Info:
- Website: https://cassienclassyboutique.square.site/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cassienclassy_boutique/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cassienclassyboutique
