Today we’d like to introduce you to Caitlin and Chris Shipman.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Caitlin and Chris. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
We are a Daughter/Mother-In-Law duo who have always had the dream to own a boutique. Last August, we were having one of our “one-day” talks that we have had a hundred times. For some reason, we both knew it was time to stop dreaming and start putting our ideas into action. Over the next few weeks, we got our ducks in a row and made our first trip to the bank to set up a business account. That day, we made our first deposit. In the form of change. The looks we got walking into the bank carrying in shoe boxes full of change were different, a little judgy and strange.
We have worked extremely hard to get to this point. We always get asked how we are able to get along since owning a business with in-laws is a tad unconventional. Truthfully, we disagree often but communication is key and we always work it out.
Great, 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?
Of course, not! One of our biggest obstacles was really narrowing down who our target audience is. We are different in age, body type and style. We each had our own idea of the buyer we wanted to go after. How did we figure it out? We molded both of our ideas together and created something, what we think, is really special. The pieces that we pick out our great for all ages and body types. Women in their 50’s and 60’s can wear them along with women in their 20’s and 30’s.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about Common Roots Boutique – what should we know?
Common Roots is a boutique for everyone. This was really important to us. Chris and I are both in charge of buying. She will sometimes pick out stuff that I am not a huge fan of but then, it gets here and sells so well and looks amazing on! Having two people that are different in age and style is so helpful.
One of my absolute favorite parts of owning this business is getting to style our clothes. If you go to our Instagram or Facebook page, you will probably see me in the mirror with one of the pieces on and styled four different ways. It’s really important to me to style with items most people already have in their closet. We want to make sure you are buying something from us that you can wear multiple ways and with items you already own.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
Being true to ourselves and our customers, customer service, and making sure our customers know exactly who we are as people. Seeing reviews or comments from happy customers is the biggest motivator.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.commonrootsboutique.com
- Email: commonrootsboutique@gmail.com
- Instagram: commonrootsboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/commonrootsboutique/
Image Credit:
Kimberly Lorraine Photography (our headshot)
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