Meet the Women Behind Little Local Miami: The Duo Empowering Small Businesses One Market at a Time
Inside Little Local Miami: How Two Friends Turned a Casual Idea Into a Movement for Small Businesses
In a city brimming with flash, fast trends, and big-name brands, two local entrepreneurs are rewriting the story of what it means to shop small in Miami. Katelin Stecz, founder of the digital marketing firm Write Workx, and Kylie Wang, longtime Coral Gables resident and managing editor at Coral Gables Magazine, are the minds behind Little Local Miami — a community-driven platform designed to connect Miamians directly with local artisans, creators, and makers.
What began as a late-night conversation over drinks has grown into one of South Florida’s most talked-about grassroots ventures. Their aim is simple yet impactful: make it easier (and more fun) to shop small.
“There has to be a way for small businesses to cut through the noise of Instagram, ads, and algorithms,” said Katelin. “We kept coming back to that same question, and Little Local became our answer.”
A Platform Rooted in Purpose
Little Local defines itself as more than just a marketplace — it's a mission. The platform is free for small businesses to join, with only a modest commission charged per sale. But more than the financial model, the co-founders emphasize intention and accessibility.
“Shopping local is about putting money back into the community,” Kylie explains. “You get transparency, craftsmanship, and the opportunity to know exactly who made your product.”
Markets That Matter
One of the platform’s most defining elements is its curated events. From their Summer Solstice Market at CocoWalk to cozy crafting nights like “Beads & Bubbles”, these events blend commerce with community. Purchases at these gatherings are made directly through the Little Local app, an intentional feature that bridges in-person energy with online ease.
“Yes, it’s another app — but once you’re set up, you’ve got access to dozens of Miami’s best local vendors, all in one place,” Katelin said.
Workshops with a Twist
Little Local’s workshop series has quickly become a fan favorite. Candle-making classes, flower arranging, and jewelry creation aren’t just trendy experiences — they’re led by vendors featured on the app, giving attendees a hands-on way to support local makers.
“It’s more than just crafting. You’re learning from the artisans who live right here in your city,” said Kylie.
Curated With Care
The Little Local vendor list reads like a who’s-who of Miami’s emerging creatives — from Nadezhda of Kasiopya, to Madelyn of Brewing Life Kombucha, and Eddie from BLISS Imprints. Selection isn’t based on popularity but quality and intention.
“We’re not trying to be Etsy. We’re curating a high-quality local experience,” said Katelin.
Building a Movement, One Pop-Up at a Time
Whether it’s a vendor market at Books & Books or a Sunday pop-up at CocoWalk, community building is baked into every aspect of the Little Local strategy.
“We want people to think of Little Local when they hear about a cool class or market. Our goal is long-term connection, not just transactions,” said Kylie.
The Digital-Physical Bridge
With their Instagram page drawing in new customers and partnerships with venues across the city, Little Local is becoming a recognizable brand in Miami’s indie scene. But their app is where the magic happens — consolidating local shopping into one easy hub.
“Our dream? That someone scrolling for candles remembers our workshop, logs in, and buys directly from a maker they met,” Katelin shared.
Growing the Local Ecosystem
While still in its early stages, Little Local has already made an impact. Some vendors now rely on the app as their main digital storefront. And while specific sales milestones are still developing, the emotional wins are undeniable.
“Every dollar spent with us goes straight to someone’s dream,” said Katelin. “It’s someone’s side hustle, their passion — or maybe even their escape from the 9-to-5.”
What’s Next for Little Local?
This fall, the team is rolling out a full slate of new markets and creative workshops, with possibilities including screen printing, jewelry making, and more collaborative events with local creatives. And looking ahead?
“We want to be the go-to platform for shopping small in Miami,” Kylie said. “Eventually, we’d love to support even more types of small businesses — but for now, it’s all about building this community, person by person.”
Whether you’re browsing artisan goods from your couch or making a custom candle with your best friend at a weekend pop-up, Little Local Miami is reminding us what local really means: community, creativity, and connection.
🛍️ Download the app | 📅 Check out upcoming markets | 📸 Follow @littlelocalmiami
About the Founders: Katelin Stecz is the founder of Write Workx, a boutique digital marketing company specializing in brand strategy for small businesses. Kylie Wang is the managing editor of Coral Gables Magazine and a lifelong Miamian passionate about community storytelling and local culture.