When you hear the words, Pay it Forward, what does it mean to you?
According to the Oxford Dictionary, Pay it Forward, defines the meaning as: “Responding to a person’s kindness to oneself by being kind to someone else.”
Our local businesses deserve some love after the challenges from Covid-19 and our recent struggling economy. Every month two Lake County businesses will be highlighted through a unique series of questions.
The catch is that I will not choose the next business to interview, but the current spotlighted business will choose who I will interview next. Local businesses will Pay it Forward.
Our first Lake County business to Pay it Forward is Infinity Consignment Boutique, which owned by Kristen Miller.
Infinity Consignment Boutique is a unique upscale consignment boutique that offers designer-name & boutique brands. This includes denims, purses, athletic and outdoor apparel, dresses – all seasonal clothing. Infinity also spotlights our local artists by selling handmade jewelry, candles and so much more.
1. Why did you decide to start your own business?
I wanted the freedom that comes with working for yourself. I wanted to be able to build something from the ground up and say, “I did that!” And most importantly, I wanted to do something I was passionate about that did not feel like “work.”
2. What advice would you give to someone just starting their own business?
Don’t get behind on the back office stuff. Start out doing things correctly and the right way. (I would definitely recommend an accountant or financial advisor). A lot of young people start “businesses” and don’t realize the dues they need to pay (like sales taxes) and how much overhead really is. Also, don’t expect to be rich overnight. It can take 5 plus years for a new business to be “profitable”.
3. What routines do you follow each day?
I try to have my coffee and breakfast at home to save money. I never try to rush in the mornings but it can be hard with two young children. I always try to get to my store an hour early to deal with any back office and accounting tasks for the day. And recently, my goal has been to make sure I get ready every day (hair, makeup, etc.) so that I feel good about being the face of my business.
4. What is the hardest part of being an entrepreneur?
The financial uncertainty is really hard. Also, being an entrepreneur means you are constantly thinking of new and improved ideas and that can get a little overwhelming sometimes.
5. What is your favorite part of being an entrepreneur?
I love the freedom it gives me to make my own hours and spend my free time how I want and when I want. If I want to work more, I can. If I need a week to rest and reset, I take it. And I love when people compliment the aesthetics of my store. I feel proud of what I’ve built!
6. If you could have dinner with anyone in the world (living or not) – who would it be and why?
Probably Marilyn Monroe. I just love her style and how she was such a fashion icon for unique reasons and never followed the “trends”!
Infinity Consignment Boutique
Open Mon. 11 to 4 – Tues., Wed., Thurs. 11 to 6 – Fri. 11 to 4 and Sat. 11 to 6
165 N Main St., Lakeport, CA
Instagram: @infinityconsignment
Kristen Miller would like to Pay it Forward to:
The Kitchen Store and More
568 Lakeport Blvd
Owner: Gillian
