In this week’s interview, I chat with Channell from Good Vibes Clothing Boutique. 

She started her online boutique about 2 years ago and is scaling up and opening a brick and mortar location in the coming months. (Dreams do come true!) 

This is a massive accomplishment and you don’t want to miss what she has to say!

1) What is the name of your boutique?

Good Vibes Clothing

2) What type of boutique do you own and where can we find you?

Women’s Clothing/Plus Size and Junior’s. Some Men’s clothing as well.

My business can be found on:

My website www.vibesclothing.net

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100027638077358
Instagram : www.instagram.com/goodvibesboutique91

3) What inspired you to start your own boutique?

My love for being unique which translates to my clothing is what inspires me. My clothing is a part of my identity. It speaks for me. Whether I’m feeling pretty one day or maybe I feel more chill on other days….My clothing will express me as a person as well as my customers. I aim to make people become one with my clothing and feel good about themselves.

4) What resources have been most helpful to you as a new boutique owner?

Self research has been a huge help for my business. I’ve watched Youtube videos on how to market, shop for vendors, set budgets, etc….Also Facebook Marketplace has worked wonders for me. 

5) How did you feel when you made your first sale? What did you do to celebrate?

I felt accomplished. That moment made me feel as though I could do anything I set my mind to. Doesn’t matter if people know you, they will know my brand and that made me happy to know I can provide products that makes the people around me feel the same. I actually framed my first sale. That $20 changed my whole outlook on life. 

6) What was the final push to follow your dreams and start a boutique? What was the “aha” moment for you?

My ‘aha” moment was when I was informed of lay offs at my job. I knew I had always wanted to start my own business every since I graduated High School I just didn’t know how to start.  I was at a job that I really wanted to retire from but when the company fell into hard times I was let go without any remorse or compensation package. I was left to fend for myself. At that moment I realized I didn’t need to allow others to control my future I just needed my own will and determination. From that moment I registered by business name and never looked back. 

7) Tell us what a “day in the life” looks like for you now that you’re running your own boutique business!

OMG do the days even exist anymore!? My days consist of daily promoting! I make it a mission to post something everyday to keep customers engaged in my content. I am constantly looking for new items, finding new vendors, creating useful tools to help other aspiring entrepreneurs and help them pave their own way. I’m also busy finding new models and getting photo shoots done.  My life is busier than before and I LOVE it. I work for me and my business grows tremendously to do my hard work. 

8) What has been your biggest challenge as a boutique owner and how did you overcome it?

My biggest challenge was finding my target audience and getting the word out about my boutique. I started out thinking everyone needed to be a customer of mine but my range was too broad. Starting out I had no clue as to how I would get people to find out about my boutique. I tried talking to radio stations but their prices weren’t feasible for me just starting out so I had to use the old fashion ‘Word of mouth” technique. Placing business cards in every bag when a purchase was made…. Then I grew and started doing little ‘pop up shop” events! Worked wonders!

9) How do you stay inspired and motivated to run your boutique?

Seeing the positive feedback from my customers is what really drives me. Knowing that I’m not just providing clothing I’m providing an experience, a sense of hope for people that are scared to jump out on faith and do what makes them happy. 

10) What’s the best part about being your own boss?

Creating memories with my customers and having the freedom to control how my life/business succeeds. I don’t have to depend on someone else to get me to where I want to be. I know own that power and I won’t allow myself to fail. 

11) What’s your go-to favorite podcasts or blogs that you’d recommend to other girl boutique bosses?

I don’t really listen to podcast but I do follow a few blogs one being Sorella Boutique. She has a very similar story as mine and gives great advice and REAL advice to business owners. I also follow Jance Chartae very informative lady and so willing to help. 

12) What is your number one piece of advice for aspiring boutique owners?

Do your research! Research clothing material, research the market in your area and see if there is a growing need for your business. Learn to invest in YOURSELF! Take classes, attend conferences. Put in adequate time and don’t rush. The more you know the more you’ll grow. 

Questions about Channell’s boutique? Comment below!