Launched in 2015 by retail buyer and fashion stylist Jasmene Bowdry, BellaRosa Boutique was created with one goal in mind – to provide that extra boost of confidence every woman needs to step out into the world, no matter her personal style. Jasmene is a successful retail buyer and fashion stylist with over 10 years of experience in the fashion industry. As a buyer, she advises on current market trends and purchases, relevant brand lines for Fortune 500 companies such as Saks Fifth Avenue, Tiffany & Co, Sears, and more. Her fashion expertise also extends beyond the boardroom as she has styled top celebrities, with her work appearing in magazines VIBE, People, XXL and Forbes. Read our interview with the lovely Jasmene below…
What motivated and inspired you to start your own business?
The inspiration for me to break into fashion was the 1975 movie Mahogany starring Diana Ross. Although it was a love story, it showcased a woman who never gave up on her dreams, who was relentless in her endeavors and unapologetically herself. I watched that movie at least 100 times and each time I am ready to conquer any and everything. I also have a Bachelor’s degree in Fashion Merchandising and a Master’s in Business Administration along with over 10 years of experience in retail buying as well as fashion styling. Therefore, opening an online boutique was a natural career next step for me.
Tell us about your business.
BellaRosa Boutique is an online destination for stylish go-getters, sophisticated corporate climbers, and trendsetting influencers. BellaRosa understands that a woman’s confidence is the ultimate key. Our customers are women that know exactly what they want, and are relentless in the pursuit of those endeavors. Although her pizazz is undeniable, her BellaRosa ensemble adds that extra oomph. BellaRosa Boutique’s aim is to provide amazing service, competitive prices and the newest trends for women who finesse the workweek, date night and everything in between.
Are you currently running any promos/contests/giveaways that you would like our readers to know about?
Currently if you subscribe to our email and fashion newsletter on www.shopbellarosa.com you will receive 10% off your purchase. We are also running Free Shipping the entire month of December.
Where is your business based?
The boutique is solely online, however I operate the business operations out of my downtown apartment in Chicago, IL.
What were the first few steps you took to get your business up and running?
The first few steps I took to get my business up and running was securing my domain name and checking the registered business sites for the name as well. I didn’t want to have all these ideas and have them crushed because I couldn’t use the name. From there I did all of the legal requirements to be an official LLC.
What has been the most effective way of raising awareness of your business and getting new customers?
The most effective ways I have experienced of raising awareness and getting new customers has been attending events where BellaRosa Boutique is a vendor and customers can actually see and try on the clothing. A lot of boutiques display images that are not their own and once customers receive the items, it looks nothing like what they thought. So anytime I can get in front of customers to show them we have quality merchandise, it’s always good. Instagram has also been a great help. 60% of the site traffic comes from Instagram.
What have been your biggest challenges so far?
Some challenges I faced in the beginning process of my business were finding the right people to handle the things I was not an expert in. For instance, all of the legal documents required to start a business, the licenses, and fees etc. Also finding the right person to create my brand image was difficult at first. No one will be more passionate about your business than you, so finding people who can understand and properly execute your vision is imperative.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I researched and networked. I used a local law firm that specialized in small business to help with the legal aspect. I found my graphic designer/photographer/branding extraordinaire at a networking event I attended locally.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
At times it is very hard but my faith and belief in God is very, very strong. I pray constantly. I pray over my business daily. Being a small business entrepreneur means you do 99 percent of the work because you can’t afford to hire a team yet. And during those times, when sleep is non-existent, I ask myself “Why are you doing this?” and the purpose is so much bigger than me, I have so much I want to do with this brand and the boutique is just the starting point.
How do you distinguish yourself from your competitors?
I don’t focus on competition. I stay in my own lane and focus on the goals I’ve set forth. What’s for me is for me only.
What is the best advice you have received recently?
The best advice I have received recently was from a good friend. She said appreciate the small wins. New followers, increased traffic, more email subscribers etc, are all small wins. Everything doesn’t have to result in sales. So appreciate the other things that are happening in your business.
What advice would you give to other entrepreneurs?
If you have a vision – something that you can’t stop thinking about or dreaming about – find a way to make it a reality. That vision will lead you to your passion which leads to your purpose. Create a vision board and speak positive affirmations over it daily. Go hard for anything your name is attached to.
What is your favorite business tool or resource?
My favorite business tools are Later, Xero, MailChimp, Canva and WordSwag. I am also a part of some really good Facebook groups that help to inspire and keep me motived.
What social media outlets do you use? List them below.
Instagram @shopbellarosaboutique @JasmeneMache
Facebook www.facebook.com/shopbellarosaboutique
Website ShopBellaRosa.com
Email info@shopbellarosa.com
Hashtags #iRockRosa #BellaRosa
What is a good article or book you have read recently?
The last book I read was “Confessions of a Werkaholic” by Koereyelle Dubose. Prior to that was “Girl Code” by Cara Leyba.
What are you currently learning about for your business or looking for help with?
Starting a business doesn’t make you rich quick, if anything it makes you poor because many times you are paying for everything yourself. I am learning to be patient and trust the process. Money will come eventually, but if it never did, I am happy because this is my passion. I am looking for help with more exposure. I’ve had a few conversations with PR companies that can help facilitate that.
What are your goals for the next few months and how are you striving to achieve them?
My goals for the next few months are to keep pushing forward and learning from the process. I want to increase exposure for BellaRosa, have a few Pop Up shopping events, and continue to help women look and feel fabulous.