We had the good fortune of connecting with Victoria Paul-chatman and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Victoria, other than deciding to work for yourself, what was the single most important decision you made that contributed to your success?
The most crucial decision I believe I’ve made that has led to my success is simply never giving up. I’ve always kept in mind that faith without action is meaningless, so I consistently put in the work, both personally and professionally, to align my goals with the right opportunities for growth.
Embracing lifelong learning, whether through reading, seeking mentorship, or staying adaptable, has been crucial in helping me navigate challenges, seize opportunities, and keep evolving in my journey. This commitment to growth has allowed me to stay ahead, innovate, and turn setbacks into stepping stones toward success.
I also consider myself a spiritual person, and I rely heavily on the universe and my connection to forces beyond our control to guide my decisions in life.
Forward thinking, being proactive, staying teachable, and reading extensively on personal and professional development, success, and entrepreneurship have all played significant roles in my journey.
Being a leader and not following the crowd has also been essential. I grew up being the person who pours into others, focusing on my own path while also encouraging those around me. I was raised in the hustle of the city, but I’ve always made it a point to do my own thing, while paying it forward along the way.
What should our readers know about your business?
The Graytin Haus Boutique & Co. is a boutique department store that elevates high-quality, mission-driven, and minority-owned brands by providing them with dedicated retail space.
• We partner with leading e-commerce brands to create immersive PopUp and Sample Sale experiences, offering unique brand installations that captivate customers.
What sets me apart from others is my deep-rooted entrepreneurial spirit, shaped by a strong family foundation and an unwavering commitment to self-reliance and resourcefulness. I’m most proud of my ability to take initiative and turn challenges into opportunities. I’ve come a long way in my business journey, and while it hasn’t always been easy, the difficulties I’ve faced have only strengthened my resolve.
Getting to where I am today required persistence, hard work, and a willingness to learn from every setback. One of the biggest challenges was navigating the unknowns of entrepreneurship—there’s no blueprint for success, and that can be daunting. However, I overcame these challenges by staying adaptable, seeking out mentors, and continually refining my approach. Each obstacle taught me the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the value of building a solid support network.
I want the world to know that my brand is built on authenticity, integrity, and a passion for helping others achieve their goals. My story is one of determination, guided by a belief that anyone can create their own success with the right mindset and dedication. My journey is far from over, but I’m excited about what the future holds and eager to share my experiences to inspire others.
As Susan Jeffers proclaimed in her book titled, “Feel the Fear and Do it anyway!”
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
My best friend is in town, and we’ve planned a week full of exciting activities.
We’ll kick off the mornings with runs along the Beltline, people-watching and picnics at Piedmont Park, pizza at Nina & Rafi, and hikes at Stone Mountain. Our itinerary will be packed with fun, active, and relaxing vibes, but we’ll also leave room for spontaneity—sometimes the best moments are unplanned.
Our first morning stop will be at Sweathouze Vinings for a detoxifying sauna session in a double room, complete with vitamin C-infused showers. I’ll also book us a guest pass at Burn Boot Camp for a 45-minute HIIT workout.
Afterward, we’ll brunch at one of ATL’s popular spots like Milk & Honey or Toast on Lenox.
On the first and third Fridays of each month, the High Museum hosts a hip and high-frequency guided tour with extended hours, where we can enjoy art, music, and cocktails.
No visit to Atlanta is complete without a stop at Braves Stadium Ballpark for a baseball game, socializing, and shots!
In the evenings, we’ll explore low-key and exclusive venues with mixed mature crowds and major vibes, such as Spaceman, Boogaloo, Garden Room, Gypsy Kitchen, and Rooftop LOA, all offering scenic views and great atmosphere.
At least one evening will end at Sublime Donuts, the best 24/7 vegan donut spot in Atlanta. Speaking of vegan food, we’ll definitely swing by Slutty Vegan for a One Night Stand burger and fries.
Her final day will be spent at Chateau Elan Winery, followed by a sip and shop at The Graytin Haus Boutique—because no trip to Atlanta is complete without visiting a friend’s boutique! We’ll also stop by Foxs on Roswell Rd, and cap off the day with a 5-star dinner at Poor Calvin’s, featuring their Lobster Fried Rice and Pomegranate Martinis.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Many people and countless books have shaped and fueled my entrepreneurial spirit. However, I want to first acknowledge my late grandmother, Grace Paul, my mother, Jennifer Paul, and my two aunts, Helene and Marion Paul, who all played a crucial role in raising me.
Born in the late 80s in Brooklyn, NY, my journey began with a move at age 5, when my mother relocated our family from Brooklyn to a quiet suburban neighborhood on Long Island, just 45 minutes from the city. My mom and her sisters were determined to elevate their lives.
Growing up in a household of strong West Indian women from the Caribbean, specifically the island of Hispaniola (Haiti), was no easy feat. Each woman brought her own confidence, style, pride, and strong opinions, teaching me invaluable life lessons that continue to guide me today. This sense of pride and independence, infused with charisma and grace, was central in our home.
From an early age, I understood that my destiny was in my own hands. If I wanted something done, I had to take the initiative. My proactive approach, coupled with pride and independence, has propelled me further in life than simply wishing and waiting.
My family taught me to be open-minded, resourceful, and to always treat others the way I want to be treated.
In terms of literature, I especially want to commend Stephen Covey for his impactful book, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.
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