We had the good fortune of connecting with Tori Gottlieb and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tori, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I decided to start my business about a year after the birth of my youngest son, Shea. I had always worked in fashion but decided to leave the workforce right before my eldest son, Jackson, was born. We relocated our family from Long Island, New York to Miami Beach, Florida and I started to look for a job. None of the positions I applied for seemed to work out but I wasn’t discouraged. I took that as a sign that it was time for my “maybe I’ll start my own business someday” idea to become a reality. My vision was clear, I was passionate about children’s clothing and more specifically I was super passionate about matching family outfits. It’s easier to find Mommy+Me for girls than for boys and Daddy+Me is even trickier! I began to research brands that made the same pieces for men and women as they did for children. I started with the brands I knew and loved for my kids and myself and discovered new brands at trade shows and on social media along the way. Before I knew it, Mini Mavericks was born!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
What makes Mini Mavericks unique is our curated matching family styles. We provide a one-stop-shop for all things family matching. Nothing makes me happier than making my customers lives easier and providing a fun and effortless shopping experience. Starting a new business brings many challenges. Keeping tabs on two toddlers while trying to operate my business full time has been a unique challenge but I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’ve learned to connect with other like minded business owners and lean on them for support and advice. Navigating through challenges with someone in a similar boat has been super helpful. I’ve learned so much from the women I’ve connected with through social media. Work hard, dream big, find your support system, and keep reminding yourself that you got this!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
My favorite place to go for brunch is Lido at the Standard Hotel. The view is amazing, there’s a nice breeze that comes from the bay it’s my top brunch spot. Another favorite hangout of mine is The Bath Club, wonderful service and a beautiful beach experience. For a night out my favorite spot is Carbonne; that Spicy Rigatoni is worth all the hype! For a weekend lunch and activity I love going to MIA Market in the design district. There’s something for everyone, follow lunch with a little shopping and you’ve got the perfect weekend afternoon.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to shoutout my friend Yas Moreh. She is the owner of a children’s store in New York called New Beginnings. She has been so gracious and helpful with her time and advice as I’ve navigated starting my own business in this industry. She is also a mother and new business owner and has shown me so much compassion along the way I really look up to her.

Website: shopminimavericks.com

Instagram: @shopminimavericks

Image Credits
Nathalie Donado

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