 Learn how Peppermint Boutique has grown from a local boutique into a thriving retail business by staying connected to customers, adapting to industry trends, and using strategic resources to plan for the future. Can you tell us a bit about Peppermint Boutique and what sets you apart from other boutiques in the area? “I started Peppermint Boutique in 2012 when I was laid off from my corporate job, and it's basically a women's apparel gift and home goods store, which focuses on apparel that is predominantly made in the US, but we do import quite a bit as well. All of our jewelry is also made by local artists, and most of our accessories and home goods are all made in the US, so we don't really import anything. We're very proud of having a boutique that caters to not only locals, but also we ship a lot of it. It's basically a women's apparel and gift boutique centered around bringing apparel that is very accessible at a very good price point. We are also very size inclusive, so we have extra small all the way up to 4x, so people do feel included.” What processes or tools does your team rely on to identify upcoming trends and ensure the boutique continues to grow in a competitive retail environment? “The way we try to stay ahead is I observe trends; this is a very interesting thing, but people don't know that politics and fashion are actually linked. So, I always observe, if this is what's going to happen, we can expect some clothing that is loud, we can expect some things that are maximalist, things like that. Also, there's always a growth and luxury tier of fashion. With the rest of my team, we have memberships at different publications, like Women's Wear Daily. It's a daily publication that sends you trends on what's new. They will send you what's going on at Paris Fashion Week or in Italy, things like that. But also, the girls are always on TikTok telling me, ‘This is trending on TikTok’ or ‘They're wearing this or that.’ I'm not on TikTok, so my team will show me what's new and up and coming. But there's a bunch of really great folks out there, like ‘I Deserve Couture,’ and they're just people who are observing fashion and taking the data in terms of like color or movie trends. It’s really pop culture and politics; all of these things really fuel what we wear on the daily.” When you first approached Finger Lakes SBDC, what were the biggest goals, challenges, or opportunities you hoped to address for Peppermint Boutique? “When I first actually reached out, it was because I was opening a second business that was very different from the first one. However, I realized that I could use help at Peppermint as well, even though it's been around now for 14 years. It really kind of helped me get my goals centered as well as understand where it is that I'm actually kind of taking a loss. Overall, it was to give me a better picture of what our business finances look like. I've always considered myself a pretty savvy person when it comes to managing money, but there were just holes and gaps that I wasn’t able to see by using your services, and it also helped me think about the future. So, looking at future predictions and making a big, structured Google document, if you will, to be able to see an overall view of the business without thinking about just one aspect that I could improve or take away from. My goal was also to increase my productivity as an owner of the business, increase our sales, and see where we could cut back. The goal really was to take a look at it, see if the business is still as healthy as it has been, and also look towards the future as to how we could improve and grow.”  Can you share a specific success or milestone your business achieved with the support of the Finger Lakes SBDC, and what part of their guidance made the biggest impact?
“The best part about the business and working with SBDC was the fact that when we took that particular document and presented it, I was able to get a line of credit. That’s always a success when you are able to present something and get what you need out of it. That was really nice for me, because without money, you're not going to be able to, continue the business. So the line of credit was success number one. Number two, it also allowed me to see that the business is positive and that it is making money and it is continuing to grow. Even though the growth isn't as fast as I want it to be, it's still higher than average growth. That was a very great way to see the overall health of the business and to see that it's still doing really well; for me, that was a great marker.” What advice would you share with fellow entrepreneurs looking to use partnerships like Finger Lakes SBDC to enhance their operations and long-term success? “I would advise someone who is coming to this organization to do a little bit of homework before getting there. Get a little business plan at least ready to go, because Mohammad helped me with so many different parts of that business plan that I didn't know I needed. I always tell everyone, and what my best friend, who has run a business for 25 years, told me, you need an accountant. So, before you do anything, make yourself available to a good accountant who can help you navigate some of the structures of money, so you understand that right away. The third thing I always tell someone is don't be intimidated by it. Go into it with an open mind because you will learn something you didn't think you needed to know. So those are my top three things that I would share with someone who's just starting out.” Checkout Peppermint Boutique at shop-peppermint.com/
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 Danielle King, LPN, licensed esthetician, and U.S. Army veteran, is the founder of Skinmuvaa and Skyn Therapy Wellness Spa, a results-driven skincare brand and wellness concept rooted in healing, integrity, and education. Launched originally in 2018 and rebranded in 2023, Skinmuvaa reflects Danielle’s evolution from bedside nursing to full-time entrepreneurship and cosmetic formulation.
From Healthcare to Entrepreneurship Danielle’s transition from nursing to entrepreneurship was deeply personal. After struggling with her own chronic skin conditions, she sought professional treatment but experienced a severe adverse reaction—followed by a lack of support from the provider. That moment became a turning point. Drawing from her medical background and passion for skin health, Danielle committed herself to creating a safe, ethical, and restorative space where proper protocols are followed and clients are genuinely supported. While the journey has been self-propelled and demanding—often leading to burnout--Danielle credits her success to building a strong foundation, maintaining clear mindset goals, and investing in mentors and advisors to strengthen her business acumen. “Even with help,” she notes, “you ultimately have to rely on yourself.” Purpose-Driven Product Formulation At the core of Skinmuvaa’s mission is a commitment to steroid-free, natural skincare that heals rather than creates dependency. Danielle’s formulation philosophy prioritizes ethically sourced and responsibly processed ingredients, with an emphasis on botanicals that work synergistically with the skin’s biology. Rather than relying on harsh chemicals that may provide temporary relief, Danielle focuses on long-term skin restoration. She explains that while chemical-based products can mask symptoms, once the skin adapts, issues often return more aggressively. Skinmuvaa products are intentionally developed to strengthen the skin barrier, reduce inflammation, and support lasting skin health. Growth and the Future of Temple Wellness by Skinmuvaa What began with vending events and small-batch production has grown into a business preparing for its next phase: a brick-and-mortar wellness spa and manufacturing space, known as Temple Wellness by Skinmuvaa. Danielle envisions scaling the business through staff expansion, increased service offerings, and broader production capacity. Future growth plans include white labeling and private labeling services, allowing other brands and professionals to bottle Skinmuvaa-formulated products under their own labels. This expansion positions the company for both regional and national distribution while creating additional revenue streams. The Value of SBDC Partnership Danielle’s partnership with the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has been instrumental in transforming her vision into a sustainable business. Through SBDC support, she finalized a comprehensive business plan, developed 2–5 year financial projections, and clarified her long-term growth strategy. “The projections gave me a clear idea of where I’m going,” Danielle shares. “They allow me to adjust direction as needed while staying aligned with my goals.” This planning has strengthened her confidence, decision-making, and readiness for expansion. Certifications and Market Access As a service-disabled veteran–owned business and newly certified MWBE (October 2024), Danielle is strategically positioning Skinmuvaa for broader market access. These certifications, combined with SBDC guidance, are opening doors to new funding opportunities, institutional partnerships, and large-scale distribution channels. Looking ahead, Danielle plans to research and secure compliant manufacturing options within New York State to support scalable production and meet regulatory requirements for national growth. A Space for Restoration Today, Skyn Therapy Wellness Spa stands as a destination for clients seeking customized facials and therapeutic skin treatments for chronic conditions such as acne, eczema, hyperpigmentation, sensitivity, and barrier dysfunction. Every service is tailored, blending advanced esthetics, purposeful formulation, and calming therapeutic elements. Danielle’s mission is clear: to create an environment where skin is respected, concerns are heard, and healing is prioritized—reflecting both her healthcare roots and entrepreneurial resilience. Find Danielle's services here: Home | Skyn Therapy Wellness Spa  In the heart of the Village of Webster stands an automotive repair shop, its doors open to the community since 1939, weaving a tapestry of history and tradition. Recently, this storied establishment found itself at the center of a remarkable journey, one fueled by passion, determination, and the invaluable support of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
A Vision Takes Shape: It all began in February 2022 when a determined individual walked through the doors of SBDC, eyes set on a bold endeavor - acquiring the beloved Automotive Repair Shop. With aspirations of ownership, the client sought guidance in navigating the complexities of purchasing both the building and the business. Armed with ambition and a clear vision, they embarked on a journey that would shape the future of this cherished establishment. Navigating the Path to Ownership: Collaborating closely with SBDC, the client embarked on a journey of discovery and preparation. Together, they meticulously crafted a comprehensive business plan, meticulously addressing every aspect of the venture. From financing options to staffing considerations, from tax obligations to marketing strategies, no stone was left unturned. With SBDC's expert guidance from business advisor, Tim Bock, the client navigated through the intricacies of the process, ensuring a solid foundation for their future endeavors. A Partnership of Progress: As the journey unfolded, SBDC emerged as a steadfast partner, offering unbiased advice and unwavering support every step of the way. From reviewing business plans to providing insights on financial matters, SBDC served as a beacon of knowledge and expertise, guiding the client towards their goal with confidence and clarity. Embracing Tradition, Embracing the Future: Today, as the client takes the reins of the Automotive Repair Shop, they do so with a deep sense of pride and excitement. Eager to carry forward the legacy of the business, they embrace its rich history while charting a course towards a bright and prosperous future. With the support of SBDC and a steadfast commitment to excellence, the client is poised to write the next chapter in the story of this cherished establishment.  Embarking on a journey from a love for fashion to a distinguished educator, Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion's story is one of passion, perseverance, and transformation. With a career spanning thirty years, Dr. Pamala has not only excelled in the fashion industry but has also become a beacon of inspiration in the realm of personal and professional development.
From Runway to Classroom Dr. Pamala's affair with fashion began in middle school, where her innate sense of style and flair caught the attention of many. Excelling as a model in high school fashion shows, she seamlessly transitioned from the runway to the classroom, driven by a desire to share her expertise with those aspiring to make a mark in the fashion industry. Totally “You-nique” Academy In response to the growing demand for her training, Dr. Pamala founded the Totally “You-nique” Academy. This academy goes beyond the traditional modeling and fashion show production training, offering a comprehensive suite of personal and professional development programs. As a Keynote Speaker, Dr. Pamala imparts coaching and transformational strategies, covering a wide array of topics such as job-readiness, etiquette, re-entry life skills, confidence building, rites of passage, college prep, corporate onboarding, time management, crisis management, and money management. The Polished Professional Dr. Pamala is not just an educator but a polished executive level professional. Known for her meticulousness, ethics, and passion for meeting benchmarks, she thrives in challenging environments. Her ability to navigate high-functioning environments and engage with stakeholders at all levels makes her the go-to person for impactful presentations. Educational Milestones: In August 2023, Dr. Pamala achieved a significant milestone by earning her Doctor of Education (EdD) from St. John Fisher University. Complementing her academic achievements, she holds certifications in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from USF Corporate and International Social Graces from the British School of Excellence. Community Impact and Institute of Excellence Dr. Pamala's influence extends far beyond academia. Having secured contracts with Debutante organizations, nonprofits, corporate executives, MBA students, and minority scholars, she is set to open The Totally “You”-nique Institute of Excellence Training Center in January 2024. This institute will specialize in academic enrichment, etiquette, financial literacy, reentry programs, social-emotional learning, workforce development, and personal development, showcasing Dr. Pamala's commitment to holistic education. Dr. Pamala shares her experience working with the SUNY Brockport Small Business Development Center, “Chloe Anderson through SBDC has guided me to networking sources that my business can service and positively impact our community and many enterprises”. Dr. Pamala Brown-Grinion's journey from the glamour of fashion to the noble realm of education is a testament to her resilience and commitment to making a difference. As she continues to inspire and empower, her upcoming Institute of Excellence is sure to leave an indelible mark on the educational landscape. Dr. Pamala is not just one to look out for; she is the one to hire for a transformative educational experience. To learn more visit www.totallyyou-nique.com/ |
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The Small Business Development Center at SUNY Brockport is part of a partnership program with the U.S Small Business Administration and administered by the State University of New York. Funded in part through a Cooperative Agreement with the U.S. Small Business Administration. All opinions, conclusions or recommendations expressed are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views of the U.S. Small Business Administration. All U.S. Small Business Administration funded programs are extended to the public on a nondiscriminatory basis.
