Meet Bessy Centeno | Owner of Bessy’s Boutique

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

Hi Bessy, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
The thought process behind Bessy’s Boutique was rooted in my journey as a single mother with a deep love for fashion. When I opened the boutique in 2001, my goal was to create a space where I could balance my career aspirations with the flexibility to be present for my children as they grew up. Now that they are adults, Bessy’s Boutique has evolved into a cherished oasis where I can both work and unwind. It’s become more than just a business; it’s a testament to the dreams I had for my family and a place where my passions and my desire for a fulfilling, relaxing and creative environment have beautifully converged. The boutique stands as a legacy of resilience and creativity that I hope continues to inspire.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
The journey to where I am today has been far from easy. Building a boutique from the ground up came with its share of challenges. There were times when overcoming obstacles seemed daunting, but I’ve always believed in pushing forward and adapting. Each challenge taught me invaluable lessons about resilience, creativity, and the importance of staying true to one’s vision.

Despite the hurdles, reflecting on how far we’ve come fills me with pride. The love and artistry I pour into every aspect of Bessy’s Boutique are acknowledged and appreciated by our wonderful community. It’s this ongoing appreciation that fuels my commitment to keep moving forward. The boutique is not just a business; it’s a testament to dedication, passion, and the belief that what we create has the power to make people feel special. This is what I want the world to know about Bessy’s Boutique and my journey.

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.
If my best friend were visiting lets say just for a day and I wanted to show them the best time ever, I’d start with a relaxed morning at our wonderful neighbor, La Chula Cafe, located in the same shopping center as Bessy’s Boutique. Their coffee and acai bowls are the perfect way to kick off a day of exploration.

Next, we’d head to The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens. It’s the ideal spot for strolling and taking in the beautiful surroundings—whether admiring art, exploring the lush gardens, or simply enjoying a peaceful walk.

After all that walking, we’d make our way to Pizza of Venice in Altadena, CA. Their commitment to making everything from scratch means you can always expect delicious, freshly made dishes that are sure to satisfy.

To top off the day, I’d take them to Colorado Street, renowned for its charming businesses and vibrant atmosphere. We’d spend some time exploring and soaking in some local culture.

We’d end the night with a cozy dinner at home. I love cooking and hosting, and there’s nothing better than a relaxed evening with great food and even better company.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d like to dedicate my shoutout to my family, whose unwavering support has been the cornerstone of Bessy’s Boutique. My children, who have grown up alongside this business, have been my greatest source of inspiration and motivation. Their belief in my dreams and their patience as I balanced work and family have meant the world to me.

Additionally, I am deeply grateful for the community that has embraced and supported us over the years. The local network of fellow business owners, organizations, and residents has played a crucial role in our success. Their encouragement, collaboration, and shared spirit have helped Bessy’s Boutique flourish into the cherished oasis it is today.

Every success at Bessy’s is a testament to the collective efforts and support of these incredible people, and I am profoundly thankful for their role in our story.

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bessys boutique