One Bow at a Time

For cheerleaders, accessories play a vital role in bringing out their best appearance, and none stands out as prominently as the bow. It’s the cherry on top, the dazzle that completes the look. Whether it’s during an all-star competition’s dazzling lights or cheering the crowd from the sidelines, the bow remains an integral part of the ensemble.

There’s an old adage in cheerleading circles: “Fear the bow.” It’s not about the accessory itself, but rather the spirit it represents. The bow is like a badge of honor. In all-star cheerleading, it signifies readiness and ambition. So when you see a bow, know that those athletes mean business.

A prominent name in the cheerleading accessory industry is Build A Bowtique. Founded by Alice Roland and Linda Martinez in 2011, this company took off when the duo attended a local cheer competition and sold their unique bows. With backgrounds in computer programming and marketing respectively, Roland and Martinez used their combined experience to innovate in the world of cheer accessories.

Their innovative approach? Allowing cheerleaders to customize bows on-the-spot at competitions. “Clients select ribbons and share their vision. Within 30 minutes, we bring their idea to life,” Martinez explains. From rhinestone-embellished bows to their signature “Cheer Talk” collection, they cater to a vast range of aesthetics.

Roland and Martinez’s journey together began at Tampa Bay Allstars, where they met when their daughters, both now 33, were just 9. Their journey from there to founding Florida Wildcat Allstars showcases their deep-rooted passion for cheerleading. Their understanding of the industry, having been coaches and gym owners, gives them an edge. They know the importance of durability and cost when it comes to cheer bows, and they strive to provide unique designs tailored to every team’s uniform.

The success story of Build A Bowtique is a testament to hard work, adaptation, and a knack for understanding market needs. They were pioneers in introducing mass-produced rhinestone bows, setting a new standard in cheer accessory aesthetics.

But it’s not all about business for the duo. Over the years, they’ve had their share of memorable moments, like the time they custom-made a unique bow for a coach’s graduating seniors. The emotional response it garnered was worth more than any sale.

Build A Bowtique sets itself apart with its attention to detail and unparalleled customer service. They developed a technique early on to ensure their bows remain stiff, enhancing their lifespan. This focus on quality ensures that many gyms use their bows for multiple seasons.

Reflecting on the evolution of cheerleading, with its changing routines, regulations, and even uniform standards, Martinez acknowledges the bow’s growing importance. Its future, she believes, is as bright and dynamic as the sport itself.

For those eyeing the cheerleading industry, Martinez’s advice is succinct: “Understand your customer, maintain product excellence, and always prioritize customer service.”

For those looking to connect with the pioneers of the bow business, Build A Bowtique is accessible via their website, Facebook, Twitter, and even offers international shipping. While their focus is primarily on cheerleading, they have occasionally ventured into creating bows for other sports like softball and gymnastics.

In the ever-evolving world of cheerleading, one thing remains constant: the significance of the bow. As Martinez aptly puts it, it’s as vital as the “right shoe” to the ensemble.