Meet Tia Smith-Bolton | Owner of Tailyn Made

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tia Smith-Bolton and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tia, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
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.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
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.

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.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
For breakfast and/or brunch I recommend Toast on Lenox in Buckhead. Afterwards, go visit Ponce City Market rooftop to hang out. For dinner, go to Two Urban Licks.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
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.

Website: www.tailynmade.com

Instagram: @tailynmade1

Facebook: Tailyn Made Tumblers

Image Credits
JB Vision Media LLC