In this episode of the REalized Gains Podcast, Steven & Jordan sit down with the sister duo behind Lady Mae Boutique, Sharon and Donna, to talk about how they built a retail business in Portland starting from a basement during the pandemic.
Sharon and Donna share their journey from Honolulu to Portland, their backgrounds in nonprofit work and fashion design, and how burnout from corporate roles pushed them to take a leap into entrepreneurship. What started as a small operation selling clothes out of a basement quickly evolved into pop-ups, markets, and eventually a brick-and-mortar boutique on Alberta Street.
They break down the realities of running a retail business—from signing leases and managing inventory to navigating slow seasons, inconsistent income, and the importance of community support. The conversation dives into what actually drives customer loyalty, why in-person retail still matters, and how creating a personalized shopping experience sets them apart in a world dominated by online shopping.
Sharon and Donna also share lessons on marketing, building a brand without paid ads, and why word-of-mouth and relationships have been their biggest drivers of growth. They talk candidly about the risks of entrepreneurship, working with family, and what it really takes to build something sustainable.
If you’ve ever thought about starting your own business, opening a retail store, or building a brand from scratch, this episode is packed with real-world insight you won’t want to miss.
Steven Tran
📞 Call / Text: (971) 285-2002
📧 Email: steven@diverserg.com
Jordan Lee
📞 Call / Text: +1 (503) 887-3619
📧 Email: jordan@jordanleemortgage.com
#REalizedGainsPodcast #PortlandSmallBusiness #BoutiqueOwner #WomenInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #RetailBusiness #PortlandOregon
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