Monday, July 14, 2025
In light of October being National Women-Owned Business Month, it is important to remember that women-owned businesses are a vital part of the community. This month is an opportunity to recognize the achievements and challenges faced by women who own and operate businesses, just like Carina Eufracio, The Parrot Imports owner.
The Parrot Imports was originally established in 1995 by Carl and Vera Grubb. Following their passing, Eufracio and her family had the honor of purchasing the store in 2017 from their daughter, Cynthia Grubb.
“My mother had been with the store since 2002, and I joined in 2007,” Eufracio said. “We both loved what we did, so when the opportunity to buy the store came up, we knew it was the right decision.”
She expressed that their main goal when buying The Parrot Imports was simple - to continue doing what they loved.
“We also knew the process would be smoother for us, especially without the language barrier when purchasing inventory,” she said.
When Eufracio and her mother first took over the store, significant investments were made while adding their own personal touches to the space.
“My mother and I dedicated most of our time to the store, as hiring additional help wasn't really an option,” she said. “My mother has always been my greatest inspiration. If I can become even half the woman she is, I will consider my life a success.”
She explained that her family helps as much as they can with the store, but her parents are the ones mainly doing the most behind the scenes.
The majority of the establishment’s inventory is imported from Mexico. Eufracio’s parents personally take trailers down to source out their products. Whenever the opportunity arises, the store will carry locally made items as well.
“I’ve always said that my parents pick out the inventory, and it’s my job to sell it,” she said. My brothers are involved as much as they can be, and my younger brother even helped build one of our larger trailers.”
She expressed that her store stands out because it offers a large inventory of pottery, metal artwork, and custom furniture.
“This diversity allows us to meet our customers' needs effectively,” she said. “Additionally, by cutting out the middleman, we’re able to keep our prices affordable.”
“I believe I came into this world to help people, and The Parrot Imports is a place where I can fulfill that purpose,” she said. “Whether its helping customers realize their vision or simply providing a space for them to sit and chat, I’m dedicated to making a difference. I’m especially passionate about transforming houses into beautiful homes.”
Eufracio has been involved in business management on and off since 2011 and said that she always tells anyone looking to start their own business that it’s one of the most rewarding experiences you can have.
“Long days are common, but I know that in the end, all the hard work will pay off,” she said. “Along the way, I’ve made many friends, some of whom have even become real estate clients.”
She mentioned that although she has never been much into social media, she knew that she had to adapt and learn that world to help with management and sales.
“Embracing online sales became a game changer for us, and by the time the pandemic hit in 2020, I had it figured out,” she said. “That knowledge helped us navigate through those challenging Covid days, and is still a big part of our business to this day.”
She believes that it is important to always support local women-owned businesses no matter the occasion.
“I make it a priority to support local businesses whenever I can. Although I get busy and can’t always leave the store, seeing other local businesses succeed brings me joy,” she said. “I’ve always believed there’s enough pie for all of us to get a slice.”
