Connect Who or what is your inspiration in business?

My inspiration in business is my mom. She’s had her own women’s clothing boutique called “The Walk-In Closet” for 10 years & ironically, my store is directly across the street from hers. I was actually in her shop when I saw the “For Rent” sign in the window of my building.

How do you stay motivated?

I stay motivated by praying, having faith, & believing in myself. I tell myself, “God didn’t put these ideas in your head for no reason.” So if I have an idea, I don’t just sit on it, I put action to it. I know that it only takes 1 idea to change your life. You can have 10 ideas, 9 of them can “fail”, but the 1 that works can make up for those 9 that didn’t work out. I don’t look at something not working out as failing, it’s a lesson.

What would you do with the $25,000?

I would invest the $25k. I had to temporarily close my shoe store during COVID & that’s what made me realize that I need something essential. I would open up a smoothie/dessert shop in my hometown. We don’t have a smoothie shop there or any healthy alternatives really. My uncle is known for his desserts here, so I’d incorporate him as well. He tried opening his own spot years ago, but wasn’t able to unfortunately. I’d love to see that come full circle.