Meet Leslie Sanchez | Shop Owner

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

Hi Leslie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I never actually dreamed of starting my own business. I was originally a maker/vendor at the shop, and when the original owner decided to move on, she asked if I wanted to buy it from her. After discussing it with my husband, I realized it was an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. So, I decided to take a chance and move forward. My thought process during this transition was simple: If I already love the place and what it stands for, then what do I have to lose?

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 Little Shop on The Mile is a feel good gift shop located in Stockton’s Miracle Mile shopping district, tucked in a parking lot surrounded by popular local restaurants. As the first maker/vendor shop in Stockton, we launched during the pandemic in 2020. To distinguish ourselves, I remain committed to my brand and vision, which has helped us become known as the “feel-good shop” or, as some customers describe it, a cute place that brings them happiness.

I prioritize making everyone feel welcomed and comfortable in my shop. I cherish the good conversations and laughter shared with our customers, which add to the shop’s warm and inviting atmosphere. I value the relationships and conversations I’ve had with our customers and am proud of what we’ve achieved in such a short time. Our shop is truly loved by many in the community, and it’s always cool to see people traveling from cities like Sacramento or San Francisco just to shop us.

When taking on this business, I didn’t realize all the roles I would have to juggle to keep it running. There’s so much involved in the day-to-day operations that many people don’t even realize. For small business owners, even on your days off, there is always some work that needs to be done or a message that needs to be returned. Owning a small business has taught me resilience and adaptability, showing me that even in the face of challenges, persistence and a positive mindset can lead to great returns. While this journey hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly in balancing business and home life, it has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I’ve had. Over time, I’ve learned that being a small business owner doesn’t require adhering to corporate norms. If my family needs me, I adjust my schedule accordingly. We only have one life, and I don’t want to miss out or take that for granted.

One of the things I am excited about is starting a website for the shop. It’s a goal I’ve had for a while now but it’s actually in the works for next year so stay tuned for that. I can’t wait for people from all over to be able to shop with us.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Of course, we’d visit Stockton’s Miracle Mile shopping district. With so many great choices, it’s hard to pick favorites, but here are some recommendations:

After a visit to The Little Shop on The Mile, we should definitely stop by Dragonfairy to see the owner, Paige. Dragonfairy is a metaphysical shop just around the corner from me, specializing in tarot readings and Reiki, and offering crystals, candles, and much more. We’d have to stop by N9NE to see what cool one of a kind vintage pieces we could find.

For lunch, we’d head to Thai Me Up, a fantastic Thai restaurant. For dessert, we could choose between House of Shaw for delicious baked goods or Ululanis Hawaiian Shaved Ice. If we want to catch up over drinks, La Palma is a must— their mangonada margarita is the best!

For more shopping, I’d suggest checking out Puffy’s Thrift Mercantile and venturing to Yosemite Street Village to visit Shop Julia Elizabeth. For dinner, we’d definitely go to Fired Pizza, a newer but highly popular spot in Stockton with great food and drinks. Or if my friends wanted sushi I would suggest we go to a family owned and operated restaurant Masa Japanese Lounge.

If Visit Stockton is hosting any events that week, we should make sure to attend—they always put on excellent events.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I always believe in giving credit where it’s due. The Little Shop on The Mile was originally created by Kirsten of Haven Kiyoko Kids. For months, it was understood that I would be purchasing the shop from her while she pursued other ventures. During this period, she continually encouraged me about making the shop even greater than it already was.

As I transitioned into the role of shop owner, I couldn’t have succeeded without the support of my husband, Michael. On many of those early days when I questioned whether I had made the right decision, his reassurance and encouragement helped me navigate through the tough times. He’s definitely seen all my tears of joy and stress throughout my small business journey.

I’m grateful for my two sons, family, and close friends who support and encourage me; they are some of my biggest cheerleaders.

Also, the shop wouldn’t be what it is if it wasn’t for all the creatives, local makers, and small businesses it features. We would not be thriving without the support of our community and their decision to shop small and support a local business. We truly appreciate the support from our customers—it means the world to us.

Instagram: TheLittleShop_onTheMile

Facebook: TheLittleShoponTheMile

Yelp: The Little Shop on The Mile

Other: very excited that we are working on a website for next year www.thelittleshoponthemile.com