Meet Becky Ortega | Owner of Crooze (Children’s Clothing Shop)

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

Hi Becky, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Well, I can’t say I dreamed of starting a children’s boutique all my life because I would be lying. The idea of my business grew as my life molded into where I am now. After having my first-born son, I noticed not a lot of stores carried simple basic modern boy clothes or my style of boy clothing. I started to find other small shops/boutiques that had some items that I loved. I was hooked. It’s then that the idea started to sprout. I found joy in shopping for items from different shops and reselling them when he would grow out of them. I started to notice all the outfits I put together sold. I thought if only I can bring in a little of all my favorite styles into one place. A year later I had my second son and I was still obsessing over shopping these small shops and the ideas of what I would do differently or carry in my shop kept coming, it was an idea I had in my head for over a year at this point. I knew there was a market for it I just had a lot of self-doubts. Finally, in 2020 I pushed myself and did it.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
When ideas started coming to me I wanted to focus on price points. I wanted to have a shop of quality items without breaking the bank. Many big chain stores for example: forever 21, have great price points with still putting out stylish and quality items, so the concept was to do just that.

One thing I’m proud of is how I’ve balanced work and home life. I’m very excited for what the future holds for my shop, I know it will only continue to grow as long as I continue to put in the work. I’ve had some bumps on the road so it has not been all easy. One thing I do repeat to myself is “Failure is not the opposite of success: it is part of the success”-Arianna Huffington. If you don’t fail you don’t learn.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Fort Worth is a beautiful city, I’m happy to be living here. There is plenty of things to see and do. The first place I would take them would be The Stockyards, the rich culture of the old western style is what fascinates me the most about FW, tons of places to eat or drink there, even catch a rodeo. The second would be downtown FW and visit Sundance Square it’s beautiful and I enjoy taking a stroll through there. The cultural district is home to museums and West 7th street where there are some fun restaurants, bars, lounges for a great night out.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Yes, of course, I would like to thank a few people. First, my sons, because they are the inspiration behind everything I do and why I do it. Second, my husband, Without him I wouldn’t be able to stay home and raise my boys while still chasing this passion of mine, he inspires me to keep going and achieve higher goals and keep growing. Third, everyone who has supported me and my business by shopping my items, sharing on their social media, anyone who has messaged me letting me know they love my items, they are who truly keep me going. Lastly, God, because I know he has had this plan for me all along.

Website: Shopcrooze.com

Instagram: @shopcrooze