Hidden Gems: Meet Lorraine Campos of Third Rodeo Boutique

Today we’d like to introduce you to Lorraine Campos.

Thank you so much for sharing your story and insight with our readers. To kick things off, how did you get started?
My business story began out of necessity & survival. Several years ago, I struggled and needed money to pay hospital bills, so I tried selling my designer clothing and handbags on eBay and Poshmark. Once I realized I had a knack for merchandising and styling items for photos, I began selling everything out of my closet and eventually started to sell for clients, too. In November 2019, I completed all my licensing to start my boutique. I had always dreamed of having my clothing label and my boutique. I chose the name “Third Rodeo” because I knew my store would have boho western merchandise and because in my own life, I had a lot of setbacks and challenging times, but I knew those things gave me the grit and experience I needed to build my own business.

In March 2020, when the pandemic began, I had just received inventory for my boutique, and I was uncertain how things would work out. Still, I started selling out of my home and would do pickups, door drop-offs, sold off social media, & got to work on creating my e-commerce site. In July 2020, my website launched. I continued to run my business from home until the option to do pop-up events started again. I now do pop-up shops throughout Arizona. I have also done one-on-one styling and personal shopping with customers, which I plan to do more of in the future.

I grew up in a small town and am a true blue country girl, and I always loved the Western aesthetic. I have a very Boho-Western style, so that’s the vibe that’s reflected in Third Rodeo.

We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
When COVID hit in 2020, I was worried it would hinder my growth and I’d have to postpone my launch. I’ve always been incredibly stubborn and persistent (which has been instrumental in owning a business), so I got creative in how I could continue to market my boutique and gain customers. Since everyone was at home, e-commerce ended up being a huge asset. As the industry changes, I also learned how the economy dramatically impacts small businesses. Inflation has affected a lot of business owners, and I have seen many people give up or close their doors. I have experienced what it feels like to have slow times when you’re not sure your business will survive. It’s effortless to get discouraged, but I think that’s when you have to keep pushing forward. I constantly remind myself the struggle is part of the story.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Third Rodeo Boutique offers clothing, jewelry, and accessories with a Western Boho style. I also debuted brand merch in my first year of business for both men and women. I pride myself on offering quality, durable pieces that stand the test of time and unique items. I am that girl who will go hunting, fishing, and riding horses but then come home and glam it up. That juxtaposition of grit + glam is reflected in my boutique. That’s the Third Rodeo woman, in a nutshell.

Alright, so to wrap up, is there anything else you’d like to share with us?
As my business evolves and grows, my goal for the future is to do more pop-up shops and events. I also plan to write a book about my business story offering entrepreneurial advice to others. I want to share that the economy is volatile, but small businesses are the backbone of our communities and country. I appreciate everyone who shops from Third Rodeo. Whenever I get an order, I’m reminded to never give up on my dream, which is a beautiful gift.

Contact Info:

• Website: third-rodeo-brand.myshopify.com
• Instagram: @thirdrodeobrand
• Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/thirdrodeobrand
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@thirdrodeobrand