January Small Business Spotlight: The Tiny Tassel
By: Southern Hospitality Company
Welcome to Southern Hospitality’s January Small Business Spotlight, where we shine a light on the creative, vibrant entrepreneurs who bring heart, color, and innovation to our community! As we dive into the New Year, we couldn’t be more excited to introduce you to a business that radiates pure joy and energy—The Tiny Tassel, founded by the ever-inspiring Mimi Striplin.
A Burst of Color and Charm in Charleston
Nestled in the charming streets of Charleston, The Tiny Tassel is much more than a boutique—it’s a vibrant celebration of handmade style, joy, and creativity. Since opening in 2015, this local gem has been dazzling the community with its cheerful clothing, statement jewelry, and one-of-a-kind gifts. Plus, it champions other BIPOC and female-founded small businesses, proudly standing as the only Black and Asian-owned women’s boutique in Downtown Charleston, SC.
Mimi’s mission is simple: bring joy to the world through fashion. “I started The Tiny Tassel with a dream to create accessories that make people smile,” she says. And smile they do! Whether you’re dressing for a wedding, a night out, or simply want to add a little sparkle to your day, The Tiny Tassel is the place to be.
From Passion to Profession: Mimi’s Journey
Mimi’s entrepreneurial story is a colorful adventure in itself. “I’ve always loved making things, and that passion never went away. Eventually, it led me to start The Tiny Tassel,” she recalls. Inspired by Charleston’s rich history, playful energy, and vibrant surroundings, Mimi’s designs pop with bold colors and patterns that perfectly capture the essence of the city.
But let’s be clear—it wasn’t always a straight path. Like any true entrepreneur, Mimi faced her share of twists, turns, and surprises along the way. But what sets her apart is her ability to roll with the punches and stay true to her creative vision.
Embracing the Unexpected and Celebrating the Fun
In the world of small business, you never know what to expect, and Mimi is all about embracing the surprises with a big smile. “Don’t hold tightly to anything,” she advises. “Be open-handed and flexible, and sometimes, the unexpected can turn out to be exactly what you need.” It’s this mentality that keeps The Tiny Tassel fresh, exciting, and ever-evolving.
And speaking of fun—work at The Tiny Tassel isn’t just about checking off to-do lists. It’s about enjoying the ride! One of Mimi’s quirky traditions is the occasional appearance of Baby Bop, her childhood stuffed animal who serves as the “HR Manager” (yes, you read that right!). “It’s weird and a little crazy,” she laughs. “But it reminds us not to take ourselves too seriously. Life’s too short!” This lightheartedness keeps the team bonded and joyful, even on the busiest of days.
Making a Real Impact: Customers and Connections
Mimi truly treasures the moments when a customer’s life is touched by her work. She recalls one heartwarming story: “A customer bought a pair of tassel earrings and wrote a letter about how those colorful earrings made her day brighter during a tough time. It really hit me how something as simple as a small accessory can have such a big impact.” Moments like these fuel the team’s passion and remind them of the positive ripple effect their creations have on the world.
If The Tiny Tassel had a theme song, Mimi says it would be “Life Will Be” by Cleo Sol. “It’s a reminder that no matter what’s going on, we can spread goodness and joy because that’s what we’re here to do. When we focus on joy, we can truly change the world.”
Mimi’s Tips for New Entrepreneurs
Looking back on her own journey, Mimi has some advice for anyone thinking about diving into the world of small business: “Don’t forget to have fun—like actual fun, every day! And, don’t wait too long to apply for capital before you need it!” It’s all about balancing the creative excitement with the practical realities of running a business.
And if you’re looking for a little more wisdom, Mimi also wants to debunk the myth that retail is just about selling products. “Retail is so much more than that,” she says. “It’s about creating experiences, making people feel seen and represented, and building a space where the community can come together.”
A Motto for Life (and Business): Make Life More Joyful
At the heart of The Tiny Tassel is a simple yet powerful motto: Make life more joyful. “Joy is deeper than just happiness,” Mimi explains. “It’s about finding the good in any moment, no matter the circumstances.” This mindset fuels everything Mimi and her team do—from the designs they create to the way they interact with customers.
Stop by The Tiny Tassel (or Shop Online!)
If you’re in Charleston, stop by The Tiny Tassel and let the magic of this place sweep you off your feet! Not in the area? No worries—you can explore all their joyful offerings online. Whether you’re looking for the perfect accessory, a meaningful gift, or simply something to brighten your day, The Tiny Tassel has got you covered.
Here’s to Mimi Striplin and The Tiny Tassel—may your tassels always twirl, your creativity know no bounds, and your joy continue to shine brightly!
Be sure to check out Mimi’s full story and shop her fabulous creations at The Tiny Tassel:
Website: TheTinyTassel.com
Visit in person: 46 Spring Street, Unit B, Charleston, SC 29403
Find them on Socials: @TheTinyTassel
Photos provided by The Tiny Tassel
Know of a small business that would love to be featured on our site? Email Collaborations@SouthernHospitalityCo.com
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One response to “January Small Business Spotlight: The Tiny Tassel”
The Tiny Tassels has such cute pieces! Love their story and vision!