Welcome to 411 in the 510’s segment: Meet the Bay Area Small Business Owner. In this area, we interview small business owners doing what they love. Whether it’s their complete 9-5 or a side hustle, we love to see it! 

It’s time to go shopping with Sheila, owner of Chi Hai’s Closet. Their curated picks will want you to “add to cart.”

OK – time to brag about Chi Hai’s Closet. What do you do?!

I curate and sell vintage clothing. My main focus is true vintage to the 90s. Everything is curated with love and care!

What’s the best thing about being a small business owner?

I think one of the best things about being a small business owner is once you get your business going and just keep growing it, is the payoff and just overall the opportunities and friends I have made along the way. I know every decision I have made, whether good or bad, has led me to where I am now, and without them, I probably wouldn’t have met some people I considered close friends. 

What advice do you have for aspiring small business owners? 

I think one piece of advice I would give is to be yourself. (Feel free to puke after reading this response) I know it’s pretty cheesy and cliche, but I think it’s so important to genuinely be yourself because you are the face of your business! I love to post memes and crack jokes (well, attempt to) because I am a lowkey-silly person. Sometimes, being personable can help you connect with customers and peers.

What’s something you wish someone told you about starting a business? 

TAXES!!!!!! Honestly, one thing I would want to warn anyone before starting a small business of any kind is taxes. Especially the more you want to get into your business and expand, just know that eventually, 1099 will creep up behind you and scare you because you will owe the government $4K and your newborn. (Sort of kidding!) But luckily, expense deductions do help lower what you owe by the end of the year, so be on top of keeping track of your expenses!

Contact Chi Hai’s Closet

Instagram: @chihaiscloset