Women who Inspire - KaLynne DeMello

When I first opened on Union Street, I was nervous about A LOT of things! I was taking the biggest risk of my life. Was I making the right decision? How will people respond to my ideas? Is this business really going to work? My friends and family were incredibly supportive. At the end of the day though, there was still this overwhelming feeling of constantly wondering what did I get myself into and why am I doing this all by myself?

Then, I met Kalynne, owner of the Mad Lila on the corner Purchase and Union Street. It was the day before I was planning on opening and I wandered next door to introduce myself to my new neighbor. I’ll be honest, I was so stressed out that day, I don’t remember a whole lot about that conversation, but I do remember leaving thinking to myself “ok awesome, I’ve got a cool neighbor at least.” In the days and weeks to follow, she quickly became one of my closest confidants.

I couldn’t have asked for a better neighbor. What are the chances that I would start this journey next door to a woman my age, experiencing everything I’m going through at the exact same time and who I genuinely enjoy talking to and spending time with? She and I keep a watchful eye out for each other, we’re constantly bouncing ideas off each other and we’re there for each other to get through the bad days and celebrate each other’s victories. Don’t get me wrong. We still both worry about whether or not we made the right decisions, but at least we’re doing it together now! I sat down with her recently to ask her some more specific questions about her journey to get to dNB for my recurring series, Women who Inspire.

1. Where does your love of vintage come from?

My love for vintage really stems off of my Dad’s love of antiques. We used to visit antique shops and vintage shops when I was a kid and I really fell in love with how unique everything was! It was like a treasure hunt for us!

2. What attracted you to dNB?

I’ve always had a deep love for New Bedford since I was young. There’s so much beauty in this city that a lot of people don’t see! Growing up I was always downtown either playing music at open mics, attending shows, or taking pictures with my friends!

3. What do you want people to know most about your brand?

I’d like people to know that when they shop at The MadLila, they’re not only helping the environment by shopping second hand but, they’re also helping local women in need! I donate a portion of my sales to buy necessities for women around the NBMA area! I also accept donations of general hygiene products if anyone is interested in helping out!

4. What are your future goals for the Mad Lila?

I have many goals that I would like to achieve! One being that I would like to bring in some upcycled clothing to the shop. I used to rework shirts and turn old belts into jewelry when I was younger and made some really cool pieces. I think it would be fun to have some truly unique items in the shop! Another goal that I have is already in motion. You’ll have to wait for the details on that one though, so stay tuned!

5. How would you describe your personal style?

Honestly, I don’t think I really have a style! I like to wear whatever I feel good in! I am having a lot more fun with my clothing now that I opened the shop though. Thrifting every few days for the store has really allowed me to experiment with what I wear!

Check out the Mad Lila at 741 Purchase Street! Her inventory is constantly changing with new arrivals dropping every Thursday! Thanks for being a part of making our small business dreams happen!