Never Say Never—A Story of Growth, Trust, and an Incredible Team

By - Amanda Ackley

Amanda Ackley and Isa Fernandez - Owners, The Bookmatters

Just 2 ½ years ago, I swore—swore—I would never, ever, under any circumstances, have another business partner. My past experiences? Let’s just say they were... less than ideal. I may or may not have some lingering PTSD from that last one. Ouch.

But here we are. And the lesson? Never say never.

If you’ve spent any time at The Bookmatters, you know I’m surrounded by the most incredible team in the universe. No exaggeration. Meet Isa, Bailey, Kenzie, and Jordan—brilliant, independent, hilarious women who make me laugh until my face hurts.

*Bailey is our branding genius—the creative force behind our entire "vibe." (Check out her website for stunning custom stationery and invites. I’ve already placed my Christmas card order!)

*Kenzie is pure sunshine, bringing our social media to life with her creativity and energy.

*Jordan is the reason I read my first dark romance novel (she insisted), and she’s the queen of exceptional customer service.

When I opened The Bookmatters in October 2022, I was still healing from the closing of The Blue Manatee. Before even signing the lease, I knew I needed Isa and Bailey by my side. They had been with me through the Manatee days, and there was no way I was moving forward without them. Thankfully, they said yes (a testament to either their loyalty or their level of crazy—probably both).

Isa, in particular, changed my life from the moment she joined Blue Manatee. Fearless, sharp, and full of initiative, she tackled projects, streamlined operations, and—most importantly—had my back through the hardest moments. She knew where things were headed before I did, and when it all fell apart, she stayed strong when I couldn’t. She helped me close the doors of one chapter in January 2022... only to help me open the doors to a new one in October 2022.

Here’s the thing: I didn’t open The Bookmatters alone. We did. From day one, this was never a one-woman job. Over the past 2 ½ years, this team has turned a little bookstore into a profitable business (which is no small feat in the bookselling world). And at the heart of it all? Isa. 

She has always run The Bookmatters like she owned the place. And now, she officially does.

The best part? This week feels exactly like last week. Because Isa’s dedication to this business has never wavered. Owner or not, she loves The Bookmatters and the community it serves.

I may have 25 years on her, but she’s taught me one of the biggest lessons of all: With the right person, at the right time, anything is possible.And that’s why you should never say never.

The Bookmatters✨ Female Owned and Operated ✨