Today we’d like to introduce you to Misty Koopman
Hi Misty, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
After working in the corporate world as a Marketing Director/Graphic Designer for almost 20 years, to then staying home to raise my three kids, I realized I wanted to create my own thing and allow myself the opportunity to design and start something new, different and let all my crazy ideas out! (ADHD & right brained haha). At the time, I had a hard time finding local, trendy clothes for my kids and a fun space for birthdays and events, especially for tweens. I dove into researching and learning all I could about retail and even getting my own label. I first started Lil & Lief Boutique (Lief is Dutch for sweet) out of my dining room and online. I lugged tons of products and setup booths at all the local vendor markets, fairs, trade shows, etc to actually get a chance to talk to people and hear what they were interested in and hoping for. It was a lot of work, but helped me gain so much knowledge. I loved the experiences and the getting to know my customers aspect and knew I found my jam. (I also learned to respect fellow artists and vendors and the work they do. Several now sell in my store). I was destined to open my own brick n mortar. So in October 2023, I opened Cotton Candy Kidz. I needed a new name that people could pronounce lol and one that was fun and all encompassing. Clothes are made of cotton, kidz can be all ages and leaves a bit of mystery as to what exactly is in the store. Cotton Candy Kidz is a unique, trendy kids boutique with a party space, “The place for fashion & fun!” We have clothing, shoes, accessories, gifts for boys & girls, baby to adults. There are tvs, kids table, blocks & books for them to be entertained. It’s a fun space that is designed to hit all the senses from sparkling lights, hanging cotton candy to smelling a candy scent. A place kids want to call their own, where they want to be and where they want to shop. But, also a place parents can actually get them to pick out what they like. We have a wide range of styles and price points. Our party space hosts an array of birthday parties where kids pick a crafting activity and all their friends leave with something tangible whether it’s a hat or shirt, etc. We also host sip & shop events for moms, cookie decorating classes, kids yoga, parents night out & more!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
It’s been a relatively smooth road, thankfully things fell into place as if the universe confirmed this was meant to be! It’s been so fun and exciting, but also challenging with learning more about the business side and all of the compliances. I struggled with deciding on how much inventory to initially purchase, because you can’t predict how busy you’ll be. Also, learning more about what fashion is in style and staying ahead of trends. I’d love to be the store that customers can rest assured I’d have the latest, cool products. I still wake up and it hits me “wow, I did it”.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I worked as a Marketing Director for almost 20 years for a global supply chain solutions company in Memphis. I also created websites, graphic design and consulting on the side. I’ve helped so many people start up their businesses. I love the design of it all. I know I should only give 2-8 possible logo options, but my brain goes crazy and I give them 20 lol. I love being creative, making things and DIY. I make some of the items in my store and am constantly thinking of new, unique things to add. I’m mostly proud of the people I get to meet. I’ve gotten to know so many sweet families, that become friends. Thankful for that opportunity. The kidz that come in with big smiles. I always acknowledge them and say hi. I love it when I hear them say “this is my new favorite place”.
Are there any important lessons you’ve learned that you can share with us?
Stay humble. Stay real, be you. Give yourself grace. Never judge a book by the cover. No matter how hard, keep putting out positive energy and be thankful.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://Cottoncandykidz.com
- Instagram: Shopcottoncandykidz
- Facebook: Shopcottoncandykidz
