Malena Martinez, who was born in Wilmington, Del., and later moved to Chadds Ford, is the Owner of Malena’s Vintage Boutique in West Chester.

Martinez studied Fashion Design at the Pratt Institute in New York City. She credits her fellow small business owners as having the biggest impact on her career.

“I am constantly impressed and inspired by other small business owners,” said Martinez, who began working in her industry when she was 16. “Even speaking with people who own businesses whose model and products are the polar opposite of mine has been helpful.”

Martinez’s proudest professional achievement is helping the environment.

“We have created a formula to determine how much shopping at my business has benefited the environment,” she said. “At this point, more than 36 tons have been saved from landfills.”

Martinez has three favorite Chester County restaurants, none of which are far from her business in West Chester.

“I love the Brickette Lounge for a relaxed time and Pietro’s Prime for a fancy martini,” she said. “Also, Kooma has fantastic food.”