We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mia Montero . We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mia below.

Mia , appreciate you joining us today. What’s the backstory behind how you came up with the idea for your business?

I fell in love with the idea of hat making when I worked for a hat maker in my hometown during college. I knew nothing about it, and had no understanding of how a hat is made. Seeing the process and watching the hat be made perfectly for the customer was so inspiring! I had to learn and my boss was so kind in teaching me and giving me all the tips of how to become a hatter.

Mia , before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

For my hats, I am located in Lafayette, LA and call myself the Magnolia Hatter. I chose Magnolia because it is the Louisiana state flower and incorporates my culture into my art. I think thats what sets me aside from others – adding the true cajun flare to the mix. I am proud of myself, because starting a business is tricky, but trusting yourself and making the jump is the hardest part. I’ve been making hats for a year now, and am so proud of how far I’ve come in that little time.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Social Media. I started making hats for myself and friends and posted every creation to social media! My clients started rolling in from there. It’s so fun working with my customers in creating a hat that they love and represents them. but also is noticeably made by me.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I think its making sure you treat your customers well. Making them feel they’re important and encourage to be bold in the hat designing process. I hear lots of times how the client loves a style but “can never wear it” or they “can’t pull it off.” When I hear that, I try to encourage them to go for it! They are always so happy they went with that choice!

Contact Info:

• Website: miamontero.com
• Instagram: @miamonteromusic / @themagnoliahatter
• Facebook: @miamonteromusic / @themagnoliahatter
• Twitter: @miamonteromusic
• Youtube: @miamonteromusic
• Other: TikTok – @miamonteromusic

Image Credits
@heartofflesh and @lindsaykatephotography