We recently connected with Alyce Gresham and have shared our conversation below.

Alyce, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Some of the most interesting parts of our journey emerge from areas where we believe something that most people in our industry do not – do you have something like that?

One belief I hold that differs from many in my industry is that community impact and prioritizing people over profit are far more valuable than viral success or quick monetization. In a world driven by likes, followers, and sales, I’ve learned that building genuine connections and empowering those around me creates a more meaningful and lasting influence. Early in my journey as a thrifter, podcaster, and confidence curator, I focused on trends and algorithms but felt disconnected from my purpose. When I shifted my focus to uplifting my local community through authentic experiences, such as thrift events and candid conversations, I saw the true value of fostering relationships.

Prioritizing people over profit has also been a game-changer for me. Instead of chasing financial gains, I’ve found more fulfillment by creating spaces where people feel valued and included. By centering my work around the community, I’ve built a loyal and engaged following that supports my mission, not just as customers but as contributors to something greater. This approach may take longer, but the connections I’ve made and the impact I’ve seen prove that true success comes from putting people first.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

I’m Alyce Rose, a mom of two and a passionate thrift reseller through my pop up thrift shop, Thrifty Rose Thriftique. I’ve always had a love for building community, uplifting voices, and helping others find confidence through authentic experiences. My journey into thrifting, podcasting, and curating events began with a desire to empower people, especially in overlooked spaces. What started as a personal love for thrifting and sustainable fashion quickly evolved into a platform where I could bring people together, not only to shop but to connect and share their stories.

Through Auntie Outside, I provide event reviews and recommendations for millennials seeking live music, good vibes, and spaces where they can relax and enjoy themselves in Jacksonville. Whether it’s highlighting local spots or attending events, I curate experiences that help millennials find the perfect places to unwind, have fun, and connect with others. Auntie Outside is your go-to source for discovering laid-back, music-filled events and community-driven activities that celebrate Jacksonville’s local culture.

I’m proud of the growing community and the authentic connections formed through both Auntie Outside and Thrifty Rose Thriftique. My followers trust that they’re not just getting information or products, but they’re becoming part of a movement centered around inclusivity, empowerment, and shared experiences. Whether you’re reading my event reviews, checking out what’s happening in Jacksonville, or browsing through my thrift finds, you can expect authentic engagement, great vibes, and a welcoming space where you can always find something to enjoy.

Any insights you can share with us about how you built up your social media presence?

Building my audience on social media has been an exciting and evolving journey, full of lessons and growth. When I started, I didn’t have a grand strategy or a big following — it was all about sharing what felt authentic to me, and that continues to be my foundation.

Start where you are: You don’t need fancy equipment or thousands of followers to begin. Use what you have and be resourceful.

Know your why: Understand why you’re creating content and let that drive your decisions. When you’re passionate, it shows.

Be patient: Building a social media presence takes time. Growth won’t happen overnight, but if you stay consistent and authentic, it will come.

Engage meaningfully: It’s not enough to post. Get involved in the conversations happening around your content, and support others in your niche.

Don’t fear the unfollow: Everyone won’t be for you, and that’s okay. Focus on building genuine connections.

Remember, it’s about quality over quantity and staying true to yourself. That’s the magic formula that helped me grow.

What else should we know about how you took your side hustle and scaled it up into what it is today?

My journey with Auntie Outside began with Thrifty Rose — a segment focused on thrifting and sustainable fashion. I started by hosting live sales and pop-ups, which allowed me to connect directly with my audience and showcase plus-size fashion in a vibrant, engaging way. These events quickly gained traction, building a loyal community of followers who appreciated the authenticity and fun of the thrift experience.

As Thrifty Rose grew, so did the Auntie Outside brand, which expanded into hosting events that combined live music, good vibes, and, of course, the signature “chicken and chairs” ethos. This evolution from live sales and pop-ups to a full-fledged brand was driven by the genuine connections I made with my audience and their enthusiastic response to my content. Embracing the growth and staying true to my passions, I transformed a side hustle into a thriving business, constantly evolving while keeping the authentic, down-to-earth spirit that started it all.

After being laid off in June, I’ve found myself at a crossroads, contemplating whether to dive into my side hustle full-time. The journey has underscored the importance of embracing both the unknown and unexpected opportunities. My advice is to explore your options, remain adaptable, and keep your faith. While the path might seem uncertain, staying true to your passions and authentic self will help guide you to where you’re meant to be. Trust that each step, even the challenging ones, is steering you toward the right direction.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://msthriftyrose.com
• Instagram: @msthriftyrose and @auntieoutside
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alyce.greshambacon

Image Credits

Jaguar Dress Photos: Bracey Photography
Other Images:Key Shantai