Today we’d like to introduce you to Alyssa Quitugua.
Hi Alyssa, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
My journey really started with my mom. She owns a CPR company called Life First CPR, and I began working alongside her as an instructor, helping teach classes all over Central Texas. That experience showed me early on the power of serving the community and helping others.
Later, my mom expanded into the holistic world with her business, Phoenix Botanicals. I helped her make products, organize herbs, and most importantly, sell at local markets. Those markets taught me so much -not just about business, but about people, connection, and how much heart goes into every small vendor’s work.
After about a 4 years , I watched her client base truly blossom. That’s when I started thinking how can I make things easier and better – not just for vendors, but for the community as a whole.
As a military brat originally from California, I’ve had the chance to live many places, but I truly fell in love with Texas. It’s where I grew up, from 6th grade through 12th, and it’s where I became who I am today. Opening our store in Cove felt like giving back to the same community that helped raise me. It was the beginning of something special -a space that brings people together, supports small businesses, and continues the spirit of connection and growth my mom inspired in me.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
One of my biggest challenges has been stepping out of my comfort zone. I’ve always been more of an introvert, not naturally a “people person.” But running a community-focused business means connecting — really connecting — with people every day. Hearing the stories of local vendors and customers softened me in ways I didn’t expect. It helped me open up and realize how important those human connections are. I’m truly grateful for that growth.
Another challenge was learning the ropes of event planning. I didn’t have any prior experience in that world, so every market, mixer, and community event has been a new learning opportunity. There have definitely been moments of trial and error, but each experience has taught me something valuable — about organization, creativity, and resilience. I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
My mom and I work together as a bit of a dynamic duo — she’s the heart behind the holistic and natural side of our space, while I focus on the creative and community side. My specialty has always been in design and layout — creating a welcoming atmosphere in our shop that feels good for both customers and vendors. I love making spaces that not only look beautiful but also flow in a way that encourages connection and conversation.
What I’m most proud of is the local community we’ve built. I spend a lot of my time networking with other small businesses, collaborating with local creators, and finding ways to keep our money circulating right here — supporting families, dreams, and our own neighborhoods instead of big corporations.
What truly sets us apart is our intention. We genuinely care. There’s no competition, no greed — just a shared goal of lifting each other up. My focus has always been to give local creators and customers a space that feels safe, supportive, and rooted in community. When people walk into our shop, I want them to feel that difference — the heart behind it all.
Can you talk to us about how you think about risk?
I think risk is inevitable when you run a small business. It takes a lot of heart, courage, and faith to keep things going — especially when you’re building something from the ground up.
One of the biggest risks I’ve ever taken was throwing my very first farmers market — in just 27 days. Before that, I was managing another local boutique, so I had a good idea of how things worked behind the scenes. When that shop suddenly shut down, my first thought wasn’t about the business — it was about the vendors. Many of them rely on their sales to make ends meet, and I couldn’t just watch them get left behind. So, I dropped everything and jumped in headfirst to make sure they had a place to sell and thrive. It was risky and exhausting, but it also sparked something amazing — the start of what we have today.
Do I see myself as a risk taker? Honestly, before all of this, no. I used to play it safe and stay in my comfort zone. But now, running a business means taking risks all the time — trusting your gut, standing up for what’s right, and believing in your vision even when it’s scary.
Right now, one of the biggest risks I’m taking is speaking out against city officials who are proposing new fees that could hurt our local businesses and residents. I’ve never been one to stay silent when something feels wrong. I believe if you’re doing the right thing, you can stand tall — even when it’s not the easy path.
Pricing:
- Market fee 10×10 spot is $25
Contact Info:
- Website: https://artisanalleyboutique.com
- Facebook: https://facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575063500635
Image Credits
Ctx Drone Services
Copperas Cove chamber of commerce
