Meet Vanessa Mala | Vintage Shop Owner & Pilates Instructor

We had the good fortune of connecting with Vanessa Mala and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Vanessa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?

In 2009 when I was introduced to Etsy, I thought to myself, maybe I could just do this ETSY business as part time thing and see how it goes. It went well for the first few months, but then I wanted to dive in all the way, so I could be my own boss. In 2010 that happened.I was tired of sitting behind a desk working for someone else. I wanted to do something I loved, something that was fun and making a difference in the World.
My vintage clothing hobby that became a full time job.
Even thought it’s just vintage clothing I know it’s not a huge impact on the World, but helps by showing people to buy second hand, eco fashion, shop smarter etc.

Now my 2nd favorite hobby fitness, keeping the mind and body connected. It has bought me into the career I currently have as a Pilates Instructor. Comes full circle when I think about making a difference in the world, even if it’s just for that one person who enjoyed my class that specific day. Some one is happy and I made that happen! 🙂

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
“What is the spark that keeps you going?” I ask myself that every morning, each day it’s a different reason. I never try to let it get boring or repetitive. Either I’m selling awesome vintage pieces or writing up routines to make sure my clients have a great workout. I never let it get boring.

Always trust your gut feeling when it comes to doing business with others.

I hope I have inspired others to do what they love, it can be a scary thing to start your own business, but you will never know till you try.
You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Shopping on 19th street and second hand shops in Montrose & Eado.

Coffee Shops Duo and then Pilates 😉 and Brasstacks in Eado.

Trips to the Art Museum and Natural Science Museum.

Outdoors Memorial Park Eastern Glades.

Dining, so many awesome food spots in Houston, but Nobie’s has been one of my favorite’s recently.
Finn Hall, Post HTX or Railway Heights has an awesome selection of all the food that’s make Houston the melting pot of culture it is.

Monkey’s Tail for some margaritas.
Drag Brunch is always a must in my book!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
My husband for always encouraging me to keep going, my dad Louis, my twin sister Valerie for helping me take care of the little one when I first started. Those friends & family who showed up to all my vintage pop ups, and store front openings.
Coryne & Sarah from Fashion Truck Festival for making things happen when they did.
My other fantastic colleagues at both pilates studios I work at Duo Coffee & Pilates and Body Rock Pilates.

Instagram: heightofvintage and heightoffitness

Image Credits
Sally Villarreal for the BodyRock Photo