We’re looking forward to introducing you to Tiffany Reyes. Check out our conversation below.
Tiffany, it’s always a pleasure to learn from you and your journey. Let’s start with a bit of a warmup: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
Honestly…I never thought I would say this……but fishing.
When I was a kid, my dad used to drag me on fishing trips, and I dreaded every minute of it. We lived in Las Vegas, so imagine sitting in that desert heat, waiting for a fish that never bites. I remember thinking, this is the most boring thing ever. I just wanted to go home. turn on the AC and play solitaire on my chunky colorful Mac.
But life’s funny that way. Somewhere along the line, I gave fishing another chance and I fell in love with it. It’s calm, quiet and it forces me to slow down. Which as a teacher, business owner, and mom, it is basically impossible most days. Just being near the water rests me. It’s like my brain can finally take a deep breath.
Now I even bring my kids along. I thought they would hate it like I did but surprisingly they are all in. They have their own rods and everything. Hearing them say “when are we going fishing next?” makes my heart so full. It’s become this unexpected family thing. It is peaceful, messy, and perfectly ours.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Tiffany, the maker, mom, and creative behind Mermaid Kove. After having kids, I started making shirts for them for special occasions, birthdays, holidays, all the fun stuff. Then friends and family started asking for their own, and that turned into helping with birthday party decorations. Before I knew it, I was making classroom décor for my own class too. When the pandemic hit, I figured it was the perfect time to take a chance and turn what I loved doing into something bigger and that’s how Mermaid Kove was born.
I design all kinds of custom products from cups, shirts, sweaters, bookmarks, keychains, tote bags, party décor, party favors, and so much more. I also create digital designs like invitations, flyers, eBooks, templates, social media marketing materials, teacher worksheets, and shirt designs. I love bringing people’s ideas to life and adding those personal, creative touches that make something feel extra special.
The name Mermaid Kove comes from my love for the ocean and my kids’ ocean inspired middle names, it’s a little piece of us in everything I make. The ocean has always been my calm place, so it felt right that my business would carry that same peaceful, creative energy.
Mermaid Kove has grown right alongside my kids. What started as something small for them has turned into this creative space that’s evolved with me through every season of life. It’s more than just a business, it’s a reflection of who I am as a mom, teacher, and maker who loves finding beauty and meaning in the little things.
✨ At the end of the day, all you need is Mermaid Kove. 💜
Great, so let’s dive into your journey a bit more. What did you believe about yourself as a child that you no longer believe?
When I was younger, I used to believe that being quiet or shy meant I had to stay in the background. I was the type to avoid the spotlight and let others take the lead. But as I’ve grown, as a mom, teacher, and business owner, I’ve learned that my voice matters too. I don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to make an impact. I’ve found confidence in being myself, in creating, and in connecting with people in my own way. Now, I see that the things I once thought made me “too quiet” are actually my superpowers, they’re what make me thoughtful, creative, and real.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: You are enough. This is one of my favorite quotes. I used to second guess myself all the time. I was always worrying that I wasn’t smart enough, creative enough, or brave enough. I thought I had to be perfect or do everything “right”. Looking back now, I wish I could tell her that she already had everything she needed inside herself. She didn’t have to compare, overthink, or push so hard to prove her worth. She was already exactly who she needed to be.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What would your closest friends say really matters to you?
If you asked my closest friends, they’d probably say that what really matters to me is my family, my kids, my friends, and the little village I’ve built around me. I care deeply about the people in my life and the connections I’ve nurtured. I love creating things that bring joy, help others, or make someone’s day a little brighter. For me, it’s really about showing up for the people I love and keeping our community strong.
Okay, so before we go, let’s tackle one more area. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’ve found a balance between work and family, when I can make money doing what I love but still be there for the little things: school drop-offs, soccer games, karate tournaments, and all the moments in between. I love knowing my kids are happy and that I’m present for them while still building something of my own. And honestly, nothing beats sitting by the beach or any body of water, that’s my ultimate reset. There’s just something about the water that always brings me back to calm.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.mermaidkove.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mermaid_kove
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffany-reyes-740709284/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MermaidKove
- Yelp: https://yelp.to/UAzdjW_KS8
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Mermaid_Kove
