Tara, Tara, Taradise

By Angie Caple '14,'15
Published Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2015

Family is one of the most important things to Tara Atsalis ‘12, and she has a managed to take her heritage and turn it into a career. Passionate isn’t enough to describe what Tara feels towards her work, and it is shown day to day through the new launch of her shop, Taradise. While many wish to go to Greece at some point in their lives, Tara is bringing those desires close to home, in Stuart, FL. Recently named best new business of the Treasure Coast by Indian River Magazine, after only being opened for six months. It’s safe to say the future is bright for Tara, and it’s only just begun.

Originally from Wilmington, Ohio, Tara grew up in a small town environment where everyone knew everyone; without the social media. Upon her high school graduation, Tara knew that she needed to go to an art school, and Lynn University happened to be the place for her. She immediately got involved with the fashion program and was able to get precious experience throughout the south Florida area. Tara designed two handmade collections within her final years at Lynn, as well as working with major vendors across the coast. Because she gained this vast experience at Lynn, Tara was able to make a rather smooth and successful transition into the real world.

Following graduation, Tara had an internship with a New York Denim Company; where she was able to gain heavy experience in the realms couture design, public relations, freelance work, sales with high end buyers, and even handle selling as well. This is when her instincts came into play, something that has been adapted from her Greek culture, to start pursuing her own idea of paradise. After moving to Miami to harness this new idea, Tara began making her own fabrics, clothes, and bracelets – all in her apartment. After recognizing her undeniable talent, she developed an interest in her family heritage and wished to know more. She then took a trip to Greece, which immediately inspired certain ideals which would then be the basis of her boutique, Taradise.

Greece is a utopia, where many don’t have the opportunity to experience, but is known to be captivating with its rich culture. When stepping into Taradise, you feel as if Greece has come to you. Tara has managed to bring unique products from the island, to her very own shop. Tara is carrying on the legacy of chios mastiha, which is used for Tara’s authentic fragranced goods, which can only be found at her store. Although Taradise hasn’t been open for very long, she has been recognized in many European markets, and is planning to expand on an international basis. The future is extremely bright for Tara Atsalis, and she represents her family and Lynn University in the brightest light.