Before coming up to UF, I would always hang out on Anna Maria Island, just five minutes from my home. I would often go to this vintage/up-cycled clothing boutique named Relish Marketplace, and I became very close with the owner, Rhonda. She was one of the most inspiring and entrepreneurialy-minded people I have ever met. She had come up with a very unique store concept and was always looking for new ways to improve and diversify her products even further. At one point, she also bought the cafe that was next door to her shop. She had a very clear vision for the atmosphere that she wanted for her boutique and cafe, somehow making a niche for herself with off-beat products and ideas while also making herself approachable to all. She turned the cafe into a southern-inspired cafe with a twist, serving anything from Nutella lattes to fried green tomato BLT sandwiches to the best blueberry scones I'd ever had. She hired me on as barista/front of the house, and working for her was one of the best work experiences I've had. I was always learning something new and I loved to watch her work, always excited for her next new venture.
Shortly after I left for school, Rhonda closed the boutique and cafe and moved to Ohio to be with her family. Since moving there, she has opened a new cafe with a similar concept. I know that Rhonda will be very successful in wherever her ventures take her, as she is an infectious people-person with a highly creative mind. I believe that these are key attributes to being a successful entrepreneur.
While I initially enrolled in ENT3003 simply for the business elective credits, this class has already become a lot more to me than that. Prof. Pryor's passion for the subject is as infectious as it is obvious. I am very excited to see what all I learn from this semester, as I feel like I will grow not only in entrepreneurial skills but also as a person. I hope to walk away with the ability to see everything as an opportunity, even when it seems that I have reached a closed door.
xoxo The EntrepreTraveler
Hi Marissa! I love the point you made about how being a people-person and possessing creativity are two essential attributes that an entrepreneur must possess. It is clear to see how significantly Rhonda inspired you with her unique and successful businesses. I think just like her you will be able to seek out the opportunities around you and create a successful future. Our stories are similar in that we both got to experience first-hand the success of someone we were close to. Having role-models like Rhonda and my dad expanded our views of what is possible and makes me hopeful for our futures. If you want to check out my blog post here is the link: http://charlysbizblog.blogspot.com/2016/01/my-entrepreneurship-story.html.
ReplyDeleteMarissa,
ReplyDeleteWhen I saw the photo on your blog post, I was shocked! I live in Bradenton, FL and had admired Relish for years! I was heartbroken when I found out that the sweet abode was no longer the shop I once loved to visit and look for treasures at. I hope that Rhonda is doing well with her new project!
I love your passion for creativity, upcycling, and entrepreneurship. Keep doing what you're doing, girl, and I'm sure that you will take hold of many wonderful opportunities in life!
If you get a chance, check out my blog!
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Wow that's so crazy Megan!! I've lived in Btown my whole life before coming up here for school. And I was so sad when we closed too. Next time you're home definitely check out Retro Rosie's if you haven't already done so, I think you'd love it. The Chameleon is great too! :)
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