One of Us: Kelli Votaw

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As the owner of Beachside Embroidery & Monograms, a Southern Style Boutique, Kelli Votaw specializes in creating one-of-a-kind gifts and apparel for both children and adults. She lives in Ponte Vedra with her husband, Ty Votaw, and daughter Grace.


What services does Beachside Embroidery & Monograms provide?

We offer a wide selection of unique gifts and children’s clothing as well as the latest fashion apparel and accessories. Our focus is embroidery, but I also offer vinyl decals as well. In addition to personalizing our products, we can personalize items from outside our store.

What prompted you to start the business?

When I first moved here from Louisiana, I found that it was difficult to find a local business that personalized items with embroidery. After doing some research, I determined there was a market for such a business. At first, I worked out of my house but the business quickly outgrew that arrangement and I have been in the store front at the corner of Roscoe and Canal since October 2015.

What are some of the more popular items that people request?

Quick gift items. Personalized corkcicle canteens and tumblers have been extremely popular. Now that the holidays are approaching, a lot of my customers have already started bringing in their Christmas items.

What is the most unusual project on which you’ve worked?

The most unique item I stitched on was toilet paper. I was creating a house warming gift basket and wanted it to include something more than just guest towels so I stitched the same design I used on the towels onto a roll of toilet paper. It is actually not very difficult and makes a super cute bathroom display.
 
Do you do mass orders or do you focus primarily on customized, individual pieces?

My main focus is customized, individual items but I also offer corporate orders.

Are there any charities in which you’re involved?

I am a big supporter of the local schools. We are a new business partner with Ocean Palms Elementary and I donate auction items for local groups/charities when asked. I think it’s so important to give back to the local community.


How do you enjoy spending your free time?

I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I also love to research new ways to improve my business, whether it is finding new products, new displays or new ways to help my customers. As a small business owner, it is difficult (in a good way) to shut off my head and my heart and not think about new ways in which the business can succeed.