Today we’d like to introduce you to Tia Smith-Bolton.
Hi Tia, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I’m from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, but I currently reside in Dallas, Georgia. I received my Bachelor of Arts from the Southern University and A&M College. I later received my MBA from American Intercontinental University. I am also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated.
I always dreamed of starting my own business, but I wasn’t sure what kind of business to start. It was not until after I had my daughter Tailyn in 2012 when it hit me that I should open an online baby girls clothing and accessories boutique. When I would shop for my daughter’s clothes, I hardly was impressed with some of the styles that I saw in the stores. I wanted her clothes to be unique, different, and stand out from other kids’ clothing.
Shortly thereafter, I began to research all the elements I would need to ensure the success of my new venture. I was nervous but excited at the same time. However, I was confident and knew that everything would work out. After praying about it and discussing it with my family, I stepped out on faith. I registered my business and launched Tailyn Made in 2013.
A couple of years went by, and I knew I was ready to expand. I didn’t want to limit myself to ready-to-wear clothes for baby girls. I wanted to create a variety of products of my own design. I decided to add custom-made stainless steel tumblers, shirts, and accessories to the Tailyn Made inventory. To my surprise, the tumblers became my most popular product. Customers raved about my unique designs and the quality of the tumblers themselves. This product took off so fast that I turned my full attention towards creating custom tumblers. The success of my tumblers and custom accessories allowed me to eventually resign from my corporate job and pursue my dream of becoming a full-time entrepreneur.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Entrepreneurship is hardly ever a smooth ride. While growing Tailyn Made, I experienced the loss of loved ones, the difficulties of balancing my time and the early challenges of building my customer base. Along the way, I kept the faith and never gave up.
My most unexpected challenge was trying to have the strength, energy, and mindset to continue Tailyn Made after my mom passed. I was feeling completely lost and numb and wanted to give up everything. I took a mental break and stepped away from Tailyn Made. I did a lot of thinking and focused on self-care as well. During that time, I realized that my mom wouldn’t want me to give up everything that I worked so hard for. So I decided to turn my pain into purpose. As Tailyn Made continues to expand, I know my mom is smiling from above, and I will continue to make her proud.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I design and make custom stainless steel tumblers, shirts, and accessories. I am mostly known for the quality and uniqueness of my custom tumblers. I am very proud of the range of my designs. I have classic designs that appeal to a broad customer base as well as contemporary designs that reflect current events or the latest trends. What sets me apart from others, aside from quality, is my excellent customer service.
Who else deserves credit in your story?
First, I give thanks to God. Without him, my success would not be possible. I would also have to give credit to my first example of entrepreneurship, my grandfather. He instilled in me the values of becoming a successful business owner. My strong support system, which is my family and close friends, who deserves credit as well for continuously lifting me up. Last but not least, my mom. She was my biggest supporter and cheerleader. She believed in me, encouraged me and always looked out for my best interest.
Pricing:
- Custom tumblers start at $30 and up
- Shirts start at $20 and up
- Accessories start at $12 and up
Contact Info:
- Email: info@tailynmade.com
- Website: www.tailynmade.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/tailynmade1
- Facebook: Tailyn Made Tumblers
Image Credits
JB Vision Media
