Catherine Shadeed is the owner The Boutique Truck, the first mobile boutique in Columbus. What started as an entrepreneurial idea five years ago is now a popular stop for local fashionistas, and the truck can be found at various events around town as well as at private parties. Shadeed was kind enough to answer a whole bunch of questions for us via email, about being an entrepreneur, loving Columbus and her favorite style advice. Read her answers below:
What made you decide to open a fashion truck? Was there a particular defining moment, or was in a culmination of a few different factors?
I have always wanted to be an entrepreneur and own my own store!! About five years ago, I began looking for a brick and mortar space and quickly realized I wasn’t sure where I wanted my store - and also realized how high a lease could be! I kind of put my plans on the backburner for a month or so until I saw an article in a magazine about fashion trucks out in California! It honestly was a literal light bulb in my head, I was so excited about the concept and did some quick research to learn there were no fashion trucks in Columbus or even Ohio yet – I wanted to be the first!! ;) I immediately went into action putting together a business plan, and of course talking to my parents to make sure I wasn’t completely insane! :)
What made you decide to base your truck in Columbus?
I always joke that I’m a “homer” – I absolutely LOVE Columbus and all of the wonderful things it has to offer!! I moved here to attend The Ohio State University (“GO BUCKS!!”) and haven’t thought about leaving since! I also knew that Columbus is an incredibly supportive community and that a new and innovative idea, like a fashion truck, would be received with open arms here!! Not to mention we are a fashion mecca here in the middle of Ohio!!
What is your favorite part about owning a fashion truck?
The clothes of course!! ;) Honestly though, I love fashion and helping to make people feel good about themselves – I love the personal connections I’ve made with my loyal customers, I consider many friends now, which I think is so amazing!
How would you describe your personal style?
Casual boho – I love being comfortable, it leads to confidence!! A pair of distressed jeans and a floral tee – that’s a go-to for me!
What is the best piece of style advice you've ever received?
It’s not necessarily one I received, but a quote I just love so much: “Confidence is the sexiest thing a woman can wear.”
Learn more about The Boutique Truck, including how to host a private shopping party, the boutique's Hostess Reward program, and where to find the truck next, at www.theboutiquetruck.com
