Meet Rubi Rocha

We recently connected with Rubi Rocha and have shared our conversation below.

Rubi, 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?

My disability is visible I use a wheelchair due to a car accident, and early on I realized I could either let that define my limits or redefine what success looks like for me.

I’ve learned to stay focused and grounded without letting comparison get to me, even when I see others doing things I want to do. Instead of shutting down, I adapt. I communicate. I ask for help when I need it whether that’s getting around at buyer markets or during shoots and I don’t see that as weakness. It’s part of how I keep going.

My hands are also disabled, yet I create handmade necklaces, model, photograph, design my website, and the list goes on. I’m involved in every part of my business because it matters to me, and because it proves to me that I’m capable even on the hard days.

Being a boutique owner is challenging for anyone right now, but my reality adds another layer. I have to be mindful of pain days, flare-ups, and moments when my health needs to come first. That balance has taught me patience and resilience. I still show up just sometimes differently than others and I’ve learned that doing things my way is not only enough, it’s powerful.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

My story is a traumatic one that shaped everything I do today. I became paralyzed as a teenager after a car accident and had to quickly adapt to a new way of living, including navigating high school from a wheelchair after once being a twirler. After 16 years of therapy and working toward independence, I finally felt ready to pursue the dream I had always loved…fashion.

Dressing up gave me confidence, and over time people began asking where I shopped. That curiosity turned into Six Thirty Shop, which I launched three years ago and fully own and manage today.

My brand is truly for every body. I focus on stylish pieces that prioritize comfort, including stretchy waistbands that work well for wheelchair users and anyone who values ease. I’m also known for hair accessories and non-tarnish, hypoallergenic jewelry, making inclusivity a core part of everything we offer.

New arrivals are coming this spring and summer, featuring matching sets, spring floral pants, and beautiful dresses designed to feel as good as they look.

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?

Resilience came from learning how to keep going after my life changed so suddenly. Progress didn’t happen overnight, and there were many moments where things felt slow or unfair. Owning a boutique will sometimes be slow but I learned to focus on consistency instead of perfection and giving myself grace on those hard days.

Adaptability has been essential, both personally and professionally. I learned to adjust my expectations, problem-solve in real time, and build systems that work for me, not against me.

Self-trust took the longest to develop. I had to learn to value my perspective and understand that doing things differently doesn’t make them wrong it makes them unique. Also by believing in my own vision and not comparing myself to other boutiques. When you trust your vision, you’ll find the customers who truly love your style.

Who has been most helpful in helping you overcome challenges or build and develop the essential skills, qualities or knowledge you needed to be successful?

My family has been the most helpful in every part of my journey. They support me in ways that make it possible for my business to exist at all from setting up tents at in-person markets to helping with checkout when I can’t be there all day. Their support allows me to show up in the ways I can, without feeling limited.

My dad also plays a huge role by helping ship out packages, making sure orders go out smoothly and on time. Six Thirty Shop is named intentionally it represents the six members of my family who support me, and the fact that I started my boutique at age 30. The name itself is a reminder that this has never been a solo journey.

My parents even drive me five hours to the Dallas Buyers Market so I can personally curate collections for my customers. Having that level of support has allowed me to focus on creativity, quality, and vision, knowing I’m surrounded by people who believe in me and what I’m building.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sixthirtyshop.com
• Instagram: @sixthirtyshop
• Facebook: https://facebook.com/sixthirtyshop
• Other: tiktok ; @sixthirtyshop