Today we’d like to introduce you to Marissa Caraballo.
Hi Marissa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have always had a knack for creating things and hunting for things. When covid19 first hit and I lost my job, I was thinking of every possible way that I could make money. I started thinking about things that I loved to do and thus bloomed the idea of Venus Coffin. I have always been an advocate for shopping secondhand as it is so much better for the planet and for our pockets. I started brainstorming on ideas of how I could upcycle thrifted things such as bleaching old t-shirts or adding some fringe and patches onto old denim jackets. From there, I also started creating style bundles which are perfectly catered to my buyer – all styles and sizes. I think everyone deserves the right to feel good in their clothes without breaking the bank. The sustainability factor of it all is truly just the cherry on top.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Owning your own business is always an uphill battle but such an incredible reward. There were plenty of times where I just wasn’t finding inventory, wasn’t selling and had to put my passion on the backburner to pay my bills. It’s also always a struggle dealing with that voice in your head that’s constantly pestering you and asking if you’re good enough. If there is one thing I have learned from all of this, it’s to take the leap – it’s worth the fall.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I specialize in thrifted goodies for all shapes, sizes and styles! I started off by making custom goth croc orders and selling them off of a Depop storefront and became pretty busy for a while. I wondered what more I could do and thought back to all of my clothes I have done DIY projects on in the past. There was just always something off when I would see a store selling a distressed band tee for $50. I always thought to myself, “I could do that for way less.” I bleach, dye and distress t-shirts and I always work on upcycling vintage denim jackets as well. I have added fringe, sequins, patches – you name it! Another thing I do that I think is really cool is I make style bundles and put together secondhand outfits for my customers based on their preferences after I have them take a style quiz and a brief consultation! I know shopping can be very hard and overwhelming for people. I like to be the middleman and find something to make someone feel beautiful and confident in. It’s a luxury we all deserve.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
My dream has always been to own a vintage shop of my own! I would love to still act as a personal shopper for people who are interested but also have a storefront where I can broadcast all of my other goodies and creations.
Pricing:
- $30 small bundle
- $50 medium bundle
- $75 large bundle
- $100 goth crocs
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/venuscoffin/
