Meet Kayla Serota

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

Kayla, thank you so much for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re really interested in hearing about from you – being the only one in the room. So many of us find ourselves as the only woman in the room, the only immigrant or the only artist in the room, etc. Can you talk to us about how you have learned to be effective and successful in situations where you are the only one in the room like you?

Being the only one in the room that stands out—whether through my style, my ideas, or my approach to business—has honestly become one of my biggest strengths. In the vintage and small business world, it’s easy to feel out of place when you don’t fit a certain mold or aesthetic, but I’ve learned to see that as an advantage.

Running Quirky Cactus Co. has taught me to lead with confidence in my own perspective. My brand thrives on individuality, creativity, and color—things that don’t always match the crowd, but always make an impact. I’ve learned that authenticity draws the right people in. Instead of trying to blend in, I focus on showing up fully as myself, trusting that the people who connect with that energy are the ones meant to be in my corner.

When you’re “the only one in the room,” it can feel intimidating—but it’s also a reminder that you’re breaking ground in your own way. I’ve learned to embrace that, to speak up even when my ideas are different, and to use my uniqueness as a tool for connection rather than comparison.

Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?

I’m the owner and curator of Quirky Cactus Co., a vintage-inspired brand that celebrates nostalgia, individuality, and the joy of collecting the unexpected. My work revolves around sourcing, styling, and reimagining pieces that tell a story — from retro home decor and novelty gifts to upcycled treasures and one-of-a-kind jewelry. Every item I choose has character, charm, and a sense of humor — I like to think of my shop as a mix between a time capsule and a treasure hunt.

What makes Quirky Cactus Co. special is the personality behind it. I’ve never wanted to fit into a single aesthetic or trend — instead, I embrace color, playfulness, and imperfection. My goal is to help people create spaces and moments that reflect who they are, not just what’s popular online. I think there’s something magical about bringing old pieces back to life and seeing people connect with that same spark of nostalgia or joy that I felt when I found them.

Lately, I’ve been focusing on expanding my markets across Texas, curating small themed collections, and collaborating with other small businesses and artists whose work aligns with my values. I’ve also recently added small collections into Vagabond Vintage locations across the DFW area to offer in-person shopping for customers when I’m not set up in the metroplex at a market.

At the heart of it all, Quirky Cactus Co. is about creativity, connection, and storytelling. Whether I’m setting up at a market, photographing a new find, or chatting with customers who share my love for quirky treasures, I’m reminded every day that this is what I was meant to do — turn passion and nostalgia into something that brings people joy.

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back, the three qualities that have been most impactful in my journey are resourcefulness, adaptability, and authenticity.

Resourcefulness has been at the heart of everything I do. I started my business on a shoestring budget — repurposing what I had, learning as I went, and finding creative ways to make things work. In the vintage world, that skill translates into more than just sourcing inventory — it’s about problem-solving, styling with intention, and thinking outside the box. My advice to anyone starting out is to use what you have and start where you are. You don’t need a perfect setup to make something beautiful or meaningful.

Adaptability came next. The small business world changes constantly — from market trends to social media algorithms — and I’ve learned the importance of staying flexible. Not every market goes as planned, not every product takes off, and that’s okay. Each challenge is an opportunity to pivot, learn, and grow. My biggest tip is to see setbacks as redirections, not failures.

And finally, authenticity has been my foundation. There’s a lot of pressure to follow trends or do what seems successful for others, but the real magic happens when you build something that reflects you. People connect with genuine passion, and that connection is what turns customers into a community. For anyone early in their journey, I’d say — lean into what makes you different. That’s your biggest strength.

How can folks who want to work with you connect?

Yes, absolutely! Collaboration is one of my favorite parts of running Quirky Cactus Co. I love partnering with other small businesses, artists, and makers who share a love for creativity, storytelling, and nostalgia. Whether it’s a pop-up event, a themed collection, a styled shoot, or a unique product collaboration, I’m always excited to work with people who value authenticity and fun as much as I do.

I’m especially drawn to women-owned and local businesses that bring their own personality and craftsmanship to the table — people who aren’t afraid to mix the quirky with the classic or experiment with bold, unconventional ideas.

Anyone interested in collaborating can connect with me through Instagram (@shopquirkycactusco) or by email at [email protected] . I’m always open to new ideas and creative partnerships that make the vintage world a little more colorful and connected.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://quirkycactusco.square.site/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopquirkycactusco/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/quirkycactusco