Sara Chakeris, 20, is a University of Mississippi sophomore studying for a degree in general business who saw an opportunity and sprang into action. When she is not studying or doing other school-related activities, she makes money operating a clothing pop-up shop.
Brewster is just one example of many Mississippi entrepreneurs who use Instagram to market their merchandise. Instagram and other social media sites have become a new marketplace for small businesses.
Nicole Harlow has always liked jewelry that tells a unique story. From going through her mom’s jewelry box, to visiting New Mexico’s finest leather shops with her dad, Harlow knew she wanted to pursue jewelry-making as a career.
To many outsiders, the South is racist, uneducated, country, and uninformed about events outside Mississippi. At first, these were my opinions too, but living here and experiencing it, the outside world has their views wrong.
Sometimes work is more than just business. Kari Bailey opened the Oxford store Elliott Lane in August of 2015 and strives to have a personal relationship with her customers.
A Vietnamese-style iced coffee and breakfast tacos are a unique way to start the morning in Oxford.
Lakia Taylor was inspired from birth by family members to create her own business. The University of Mississippi junior marketing major with a minor in entrepreneurship said her grandfather has his own upholstery business, and her dad was the first lease owner of Dairy Queen in Mississippi.
One Ole Miss student is helping the women of Oxford look their best for special occasions and most importantly, for themselves. Mani Minks Lash Services serves Ole Miss students, University-Oxford residents, and beyond if they are willing to make the drive.
Mary Kelleher has always been creative. Thanks to Instagram, her uniquely painted jean jackets may soon result in profit.
Oxford Vintage has faced transitions and challenges since the company was founded in 2008 by two Ole Miss students who wanted to cater to a fashion-forward crowd.
The owners of a clothing boutique that originally opened in Jackson before expanding to Oxford in 2017 have opened a new store in Nashville.
Consumers are always looking for fun gift ideas, unique purchases, and last-minute grabs. Whether it’s a birthday present or something special for Valentine’s Day, Riley Kellum, 21, has a creative solution for shoppers.
Downtown Grenada is experiencing a renaissance. The historic Grenada square and surrounding areas were once home to many vacant, abandoned buildings. But after several large investments in the past few years, the area is emerging from despair. With a new aesthetic and energy, downtown Grenada could soon become a tourist destination.
The University of Mississippi is known for having one of the best accounting schools in the country. Ole Miss is also known as the “Harvard of the South” for its outstanding law program. The university, however, is lacking in the fashion department. During one of my IMC 205 classes, my professor introduced us to some upcoming IMC classes. Mr. Scott Fiene, who is the assistant dean for curriculum and assessment, listed just a slide full of 300-level IMC courses. One included IMC 361 Fashion Promotion. I immediately got in my course favorites and added the class. I knew this was going to be the closest I could get to a fashion course at this school.
When University of Mississippi integrated marketing communication majors Lindy Goodson and Elizabeth Lanford were trying to come up with an outfit last year for (sorority) bid day, they never expected their creativity would lead to a business and office space at Insight Park on the UM Campus.
In an effort to reduce waste for our environment, more people are turning to used clothing. Thrift stores are popping up on every corner, and customers are looking for unique items. Whether it’s finding that perfect dress for formal or shoes that complete an outfit for a fraction of the price, there is treasure to be found at the bottom of bargain bins. Some people know how to capitalize on the treasures they find, and others add their own touch to clothing.
If there is one thing that can be supported in a college town, it is a T-shirt shop. However, the idea of selling Ole Miss and Greek life T-shirts in Oxford has become a saturated business market, with a number of T-shirt designers and retailers moving to town to support this need over the last couple of decades. Two entrepreneurial college students came to Oxford and identified a deficit in the market for cool vintage clothing.
Pop. Fizz. It’s that satisfying sound you hear when you open a soda that triggers your caffeine addiction. It’s also a place for clothing addicts. Popfizz Boutique, with locations in Oxford and Jackson, is a popular place to find the latest trends. The stores are owned and operated by four Ole Miss alumni who never imagined it would be part of their future.
When most Oxford locals hear the words “Rafters” or “The Annex,” they may only think of bars on the Square. Few know about the venues’ music influence. Each business owned by the Chadwick family has its own unique music style, and much work is involved in distinguishing them from other Square businesses.
When Leigh Harville was teaching second graders two years ago, she never imagined she would one day work from home and control her own career. Today, she is her own boss. This is a result of her passion for helping others fueled by the freedom multi-level marketing provides.
