We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Jill Rarig. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Jill below.

Alright, Jill thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Owning a business isn’t always glamorous and so most business owners we’ve connected with have shared that on tough days they sometimes wonder what it would have been like to have just had a regular job instead of all the responsibility of running a business. Have you ever felt that way?

I had always wanted to be an entrepreneur and business owner. My opportunity came in 2020. I received a Type 1 Diabetes diagnosis and knew I would never be happy in a corporate job again. My health and the happiness of my family and myself was now priority number 1. I knew I would go back to work once the children were in school. So to prepare I started my business online. I was able to establish my online presence and get my ducks in a row. I learned as much as I could about Social Media platforms, online marketing and e-commerce apps. In August 2022 I opened my brick & mortar fashion boutique. I am the happiest with work I’ve ever been and can’t even imagine the alternative.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

I was pulled into the world of fashion in college. My roommate and closest friend brought me up to date with the classic and trendy lines. Fast forward 20 years. I’ve always yearned to be a small business owner and found myself drawn to fashion and e-commerce. I was able to use my business degree to lay the foundation. However, e-commerce is constantly changing and has required a Learning and growth mindset. With the changing dynamic of the global supply chain, I’ve focused my fashion business on Made in the USA brands and designers. Our clothing has always focused on closet staples and comfort. Our products are sourced through various online and in person wholesale markets. Being able to connect with other small business owners and curate a collection for my customers has been a dream. Working with these designers has helped me get a feel for the true trends worn every day on the street, not just the runway. I also focus on affordability and sustainability. Only 3% of our inventory is great than $100. That has allowed us to appeal to a broad audience. And we carry a Made in the USA sustainable bamboo clothing line. Focusing on Made in the USA has allowed us to connect with local artist.

Can you tell us about a time you’ve had to pivot?

The pivot point in my career was my Diabetes diagnosis. I needed a career that would allow me to focus on my health and not a corporate bottom line. There’s nothing wrong with a bottom line. I needed it to be for me and my family. Not someone else’s. This pivot has also allowed me to be the mom I want to be. Taking the kids to school, being home to cook dinner and be the primary caregiver. This is also crucial to me and the health of our family. I have been able to achieve more balance, and I don’t have to sacrifice time with my children to advance my career.

Let’s talk about resilience next – do you have a story you can share with us?

I opened two locations this summer but am in the process of closing one. It’s disheartening, and I’m really disappointed in my ability to market to the community and broadcast our value. But I am only one person. I will now be to able to zero in on my other location and focus my efforts there. I’m continuing with my branding and marketing efforts, and doubling down on our Made In the USA products.

Contact Info:

• Website: Black-Forest-fashion.com
• Instagram: @black_forest_fashion
• Facebook: blackforestfas1
• Twitter: @blackforestfas1
• Youtube: Black Forest Fashion
• Other: Our Google Business listing up to date

Image Credits
Sarah German