What inspired you to start your own boutique?

I launched my boutique shortly after my daughter was born, she was my inspiration in terms of motivation.  As far as who and what inspired me then and still inspires me is my beautiful black peers.  Who are grinding and giving all of themselves to push to the next level and really make this generation of women phenomenal.  I’m proud of being a black woman, because of all of us grinding for our passions and looking great in the process.

What is unique about your clothing?

I think what’s unique about my clothing is me really, the fact that I’m relatable to my audience.  I also source clothing that the everyday woman from many different walks of life can wear and be comfortable yet fashionable in.  I think my clothing flatters many different body types and not just the “Insta model” body that’s heavily promoted right now.

For a first-time buyer, what items would you recommend to purchase from your website?

This is a good question! My favorite is anything denim.  Right now and probably always I will have a denim dress, jumpsuit or set.  The denim jumpsuit I would recommend at the moment is “Dream Girl” It retails at $40.00 and I think that a steal for an entire outfit.  Add your accessories and you’re good to go.

What are the pros and cons of being a business owner?

The major pro to me and what keeps me going is the love and support you feel from your customers after they make a purchase.  They feel beautiful, they send pictures and videos telling you how much they love what they bought.  So its gratifying in more than one way.  Another pro that really keeps me focused is knowing I can take matters into my own hands.  Create generational wealth for my child and my family all while doing something I genuinely love doing.  A con is that with anything you have not been taught you will have ups and downs, storms and sunshine, but then you realize flowers need water to grow.  Starting a business when you don’t personally know business owners can be challenging in the business aspect of things.  In business you will go through growing pains.  I originally started my business in 2016 and here I am in 2020 relaunching it yet again. “Storms are to replenish, what must grow” – Tabitha Brown.

What makes your business different from your competition?

Again, I think personal brand and identity is what makes us all different in a very saturated market.  I believe no matter how much competition you have, what sets you apart is you and what’s for you is for you.  I’m hoping when I engage with my customers they feel my personality, nature as a person.  That I really put my heart into every aspect of bringing the clothing to them, in a presentation that they’ll appreciate.

What is your fashion pet peeve?

I love the fluidity of fashion, but I must say I absolutely hate the over mixing of patterns and textures.  Sometimes less is more.  When you try extremely hard to stand out, sometimes you just look clownish.

What is the best comedy movie ever?

Probably a cross between the Bad Boys sequel and the Rush Hour sequel.  Haha, those are my favorites.  It made me smile just thinking about it.

What was your last local adventure?

Whew, my last local adventure due to quarantine was definitely my most recent photo shoot.  Extremely hot and humid weather.  It felt like me and the sun were dancing in heels on concrete in a sauna.

What is one thing that brings a smile to your face, no matter the time of day?

Online order notifications, lol.  It feels good to see them no matter the time, size of the order, nothing.  It feels like you’re living your dream when you wake up and see there are orders to fulfill.

Who is someone that has impacted your life or helped you become who you are?

My grandmother Phillis, for sure.  She has always given me the love and nurturing to become who I am.  My heart is golden as is hers.  I’m extremely grateful to have had someone love me, reassure me and water me in a way I needed to grow into the woman I am today.   She’s a person who really breathes positivity and I believe giving out positive energy brings it back to you full circle.  She’s taught me to manifest what I want and she pushes me to get it done.  That’s my girl, I know she got me for life.

How can everyone keep in contact with you on social media?

My business Instagram is @Influencebtq and my personal social media is @sunkissed.phee .  Thank you so much everyone, xoxo!