Name- Makayla Knight
Age- 20
Year at Belmont- Sophomore
Why did you choose Belmont?
I picked Belmont because it offers one of the best Entrepreneurship programs in the country and it’s close to home for me.
You’re an entrepreneur, can you tell us about your business?
Hippington is located in downtown Springfield, TN. Hippington specializes in carrying clothing and accessories that are made in the USA, made by local artists and designers or are a part of the Fair Trade Association.
When did you know you wanted to start your own store?
I knew I wanted to own my own business my junior year of high school, which is when I started the business. For the first couple of years I would set up at local events and festivals. It was at one of these festivals that I found the current location for Hippington’s brick and mortar.
How do you choose what items to carry in your store?
I originally got the idea for Hippington after attending numerous craft shows and events in the Nashville area. I realized that most of the artisans I met did not have a permanent location to sell their products and I wanted to change that. From day one I have only wanted to carry clothing or accessories that were made in the USA or by local artists and designers that I have come into contact with. I also liked the idea of carrying products that are part of the Fair Trade Association because I liked the idea of getting to give back to those who made them. I also like that each item is unique and tells a story.
What is your favorite thing about Hippington?
My favorite thing about Hippington is getting to showcase the work of local artisans and designers. I also enjoy getting to interact with my customers one on one and truly getting the chance to develop a relationship with them. Another thing that I enjoy about my business is that I know the story behind every product and how it was made, so I am able to share that knowledge with my customers.
What advice would you give other aspiring entrepreneurs?
I would tell other entrepreneurs that if they have an idea or hobby that they are passionate about then they should pursue it. I would also suggest that they do their research and see what the market would be like for them. Research will only make them stronger. The last thing I would suggest is never letting anyone stand in the way of what you intend to do.
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