Today we’d like to introduce you to Tamala Levin.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I have owned and operated Acquire Good in Hingham for a little over a year. I was drawn to the idea of being part of a community where I could combine my sales and service skills (pretty much wrap them together with a bow – literally). For over 11 years, I had worked in the Sports & Entertainment business as a Director of Client Service. It was truly an amazing adventure that I am grateful for everyday. However, life changes and balancing work/life with 2 kids under the age of 4 began to look very different than when I was once juggling work/life in my of 20’s. Working a typical day plus weekends, games and events began to take its toll on both myself and my family.
One night my husband came home from an event where he had run into a good friend, who had mentioned that his wife, Suzanne, was considering selling her retail shop in Hingham. I didn’t think much of it at the time but the next morning I said to my husband, ‘ What if I bought the shop?’ After hours of conversation and ‘what if’ scenarios, I did it. And I must say my husband is amazing. During this process, he fully supported my ideas, truly believed in me and listened to the roller coaster of emotions that accompanied this change.
I bought Suzanne’s Gift Boutique in Hingham. I am thankful everyday to Suzanne for creating such an amazing shop and for trusting me to take the reigns. She guided me and passed the torch. I operated Suzanne’s (as-is) for 4 months then closed the doors, renovated, re-stocked and opened Acquire Good in June 2017.
Has it been a smooth road?
There have been very few ‘bumps’ in the road. I knew this venture was opening doors to an industry that I knew very little about, so I was prepared for the challenge. I am fortunate that my family and friends have been extremely supportive. I am forever grateful for their encouragement and positive influence.
One small piece of advice that I can lend to others who are looking to ‘re-invent’ themselves is to understand your strengths and weaknesses. Be resourceful. Being confident, humble and positive will make this journey much more rewarding for both yourself and others.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into Acquire Good story. Tell us more about the business.
Acquire Good is a unique gift boutique in Hingham Square that blends modern simplicity with New England Coastal style. We specialize in gifts including custom, hostess, baby, wedding, tabletop, bar ware as well as home decor. This location has been home to a gift store for over 20 years. My goal is to maintain a few of the mainstream brands that the community has come to rely upon, plus blend-in new ‘must see’ items. Within the last month alone, we have acquired five new product lines from local vendors and artists in New England. We do our best to support the community as they have so graciously supported us.
In addition, we love to party! AG has teamed up with local organizations to host events, launch products and open our doors (and discounts) to the community.
Along with the cool, unique and reliable merchandise, I am proudest of the amazing staff that continues to help our customers each and every day. It is so refreshing to walk into the store and feel the energy of my team.
Do you have a lesson or advice you’d like to share with young women just starting out?
As a young women, I was willing to work hard and fully commit to my role. I had been raised to do the right thing and to take a realistic approach to any challenge that presented itself. However, a lot of my decisions are based on passion and feeling. Be passionate about life and the choices you make.
Also, recognize the importance of relationships. I have been blessed with a number of influential people in my life. The smallest encounter can lead to something amazing. Know those moments and embrace them.
Contact Info:
- Address: 132 North Street
Hingham, MA 02043 - Website: acquiregood.com
- Phone: 781.749.5111
- Email: tamalalevin@acquiregood.com
- Instagram: @acquiregood
- Facebook: @acquiregoodgiftboutique
Image Credit:
Bernie
Getting in touch: BostonVoyager is built on recommendations from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you know someone who deserves recognition please let us know here.
