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AnnaCalisa, Den Bisema
As the founder of AnnaCalisa, LLC, I've successfully transitioned from an Etsy shop to a physical boutique in the Burlington Mall. My achievements include designing a popular 3-D style mask in six sizes, which gained widespread popularity and supporting local artists and women-owned businesses through my boutique. My journey from a donation project to a thriving boutique, while managing my roles as a mom and a seasoned sales manager, marks a significant success.
AnnaCalisa is a boutique specializing in customized masks, jewelry, clothing, and personalized gifts. Rooted in my passion for design and creation, the business also supports women-owned designers, local artists, and small businesses, offering a platform for independent crafters.
The inspiration for AnnaCalisa came during the COVID-19 pandemic when I recognized a need for well-fitting toddler masks. My daughters' difficulty in finding masks that fit them led me to use my sewing and designing skills to create a range of masks. This endeavor, fueled by my passion for design and driven by the joy of creating something my children loved, evolved into a full-fledged business.
What makes AnnaCalisa unique is its blend of personalized craftsmanship and commitment to supporting the community. Our boutique not only offers customized, high-quality products but also serves as a hub for supporting and empowering women in business and fostering creative talent among local artisans.
The desire to grow beyond an Etsy storefront and establish a physical presence in the retail world motivated me to seek SCORE's assistance. Their reputation for helping startups scale and the availability of valuable resources made them an ideal choice for guidance and support.
SCORE played a pivotal role in the growth of AnnaCalisa. With the guidance and resources provided by SCORE, particularly from my mentor Michael Thompson, I was able to expand my business avenues, develop effective strategies, and strengthen my networking with other small businesses and independent crafters.
My mentor, Michael Thompson, has been instrumental in the development of AnnaCalisa. His insights into business strategy, networking, and small business management have been invaluable in expanding my business and enhancing its operations.
