Meet Misty Koopman

Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to Misty Koopman. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi Misty, really happy you were able to join us today and we’re looking forward to sharing your story and insights with our readers. Let’s start with the heart of it all – purpose. How did you find your purpose?

How did I find my purpose? Hummm….. I think that at the age of 47, I can better answer this question. I do believe I have finally found my purpose. It didn’t hit me all at once, it wasn’t until I evolved spiritually and challenged myself to do things that were scary or new like becoming a mom and starting a small business and opening a brick n mortar. Growing up, I experienced emotional abuse and wasn’t given things easily and started working at 16 to support myself. Juggling school, sports and social life all while working 20 hours a week. At 19, I moved out of my parents home, worked a full time job and went to college at night with no financial help. It wasn’t always easy, but all of the hardships over the years only made me stronger to prove I could do anything on my own and it molded my work ethic and what kind of person I wanted to be. Over the years, I switched majors a few times and climbed the corporate ladder to Director of Sales & Marketing. This was when I first knew I found my jam. I didn’t realize just how creative or thought provoking I could be and working could also be fun. In 2009, I met my husband who is Dutch and he opened my eyes to the world, other cultures and how different and amazing we as humans truly are. After 18 years, I quit my job to become a mom. I now have 3 children who completely changed my life for the best. I was meant to be a mother. They bring out so much love and joy. Raising them and through my life experiences and even the loss of several close loved ones made me realize how special life really is and to love hard, express your feelings, take chances and follow your dreams! So how could I cultivate a job that allows me to be me while still being a devoted mother? That’s when I created Cotton Candy Kidz, a place for fashion & fun! I wanted a space that is fun, colorful & touches off senses that kids would actually want to be in and want to come to. Not only is it a boutique, but its also a party place for birthdays, popups, workshops & more! A place my kids can also be with me and be themselves. I enjoy meeting customers and interacting with all of the kids making them feel welcome and loved. It gives me so much pleasure and a full heart to see their smiling faces or when they come in to show me they are wearing their new outfit, or for their party or just for a quick hug. I love all the connections it brings me. That’s when I knew I found my purpose and I’m exactly where I should be! Woa, I did it! When I first opened my stored, I struggled with fear, doubt and worry. I prayed, manifested, pushed through and everything fell into place . I could of easily let the hardships of my past get the best of me. I encourage everyone that no matter how hard your life may of been, never give up! All it takes is self-reflection to figure out what truly makes you happy, hard work, and passion! Finding your purpose is so fulfilling, don’t live with regrets, you are more powerful than you know!

Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?

As previously mentioned, I worked in the corporate world for a long time. After having kids, I knew I wanted to be more flexible and I love crafting and fashion. It was also hard finding new, trendy styles for my kids. So i first started an online kids boutique out of my dining room. I dove into research, learning the trade and selling at all the vendor markets, fairs and pop ups. It was a lot of work carrying bins and bins to each event, but it was worth it. I got to meet people and ask what they were looking for and ask the kids what they were into. This helped me figure out what I should focus on and buy for my future store and what could set me apart from the rest.

I am focused on providing a fun, friendly shopping experience as well as an exciting party space with endless options! I love building relationships with people and being creative. Having Cotton Candy Kidz gives me the best of both worlds. I carry baby to adult sizes in boys and girls that include many tween brands which was hard for people to find before. I also have toys, accessories, shoes and more! IA one stop shop if you will. I also create some products I sell in the store.

There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?

I think the three qualities that were most impactful in my journey was having patience, learning as much as I possibly could and working hard and not giving up on my passion and what I wanted. Taking IT classes early in life and having a marketing background definitely helped me. I also create websites and graphic design as side work, which also helped. My advice is to pursue your passion, set yourself up early by taking classes in the field(s) that would broaden your future. Even if you don’t know what you want to do, take courses that will be beneficial no matter what you chose as your career. Get experience. The best way isn’t learning what to do, but actually doing it. Most importantly, give yourself grace.

What do you do when you feel overwhelmed? Any advice or strategies?

I have to admit I feel overwhelmed frequently. Between being a mom, household duties, juggling all the sports/projects between three kids, being on 2 different PTA’s, being a room mom, on committees and running a small business all with ADHD, it can be a lot, thankfully I have a hands on husband. But, I love the chaos. It’s almost a challenge lol. I try to breathe, reel in all my thoughts and prioritize. I keep an updated calendar/planner and just take it day by day. Thinking too much too far ahead can cause more stress, Also, find your tribe. I’m blessed with amazing friends that are a great support system. Even if it’s just to boost your mood or to carpool, feeling like you aren’t alone in your journey helps so much!

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