We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Katrina Armstrong a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Katrina, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today So, naming is such a challenge. How did you come up with the name of your brand?
Coming up with the name for my business was actually quite simple. I have read many times where people suggest you don’t use your name and/or face to represent your business. I personally disagree and feel as though my business is ME! It represents who I am and its me telling a story through fashion and style. Everyone who knows me, knows that I love to look great. My outfit is usually louder than I am (depending on the setting). I am certainly an Introvert with extroverted style! Every item I put in front of my audience will be something I would wear MORE than once AND I won’t mind spending my money on. I do not wish to hide behind a catchy name I am Katrina C and my business is KATRINA C….period.
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 have always cared what I look like and in most cases I stand out because I’m always looking for something different. I’ve never been afraid to wear what others may not like or wear yet. I would never buy an exact outfit from a mannequin. Usually I’m not gonna say a whole lot if I’m in an unfamiliar place, so I try to make sure my outfit is saying exactly what I’m thinking!
Today it is quite a challenge to be different as a retail clothing store since we have moved into the fast fashion mentality. Lots of boutiques are using the same retailers. Despite the challenges I truly believe I will be successful and grow within the industry. I plan to glow as I grow!
I have played with the idea of a brick and mortar boutique for many years. That idea is not gone completely, but as for now I’ve decided to build my market and clientele remotely over the US. That way I’m able to decide exactly where there is a demand for the style and grace that Katrina C delivers.
Since there are many boutiques with similar inventory it is important to find “your crowd” and give them something they can’t just get from anywhere. I have been promoting my boutique as one that drops HITS and not one hit wonders. These are items that can be worn in many different ways as well as to many different occasions. I also provide styling tips. One of my quotes, ” I won’t just sell it to you, I’m going to show you what to do with it”.
I want my ladies to shop “smarter ” and buy pieces that go with something they already have. We sometimes tend to buy things we’ll only wear once… where’s the fun in that! We’re not going to do that. We are mixing and matching and making these pieces work ok.
I am very proud of myself for taking this leap of faith and certainly appreciate that so many beautiful women trust my judgment when it comes to style.
We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?
People always say, well I’ve even said, Reach out beyond your family and friends because they won’t always support you. Baby not all friends and families are the same! My family and friends have been getting STYLED by Katrina C in numbers ok! When you are doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing, that thing shines through you so brightly that even people whom you’ve never expect will jump on board and rock with you!
When developing my brand I actually decided to include some of the people who shape who I am today. I humanized my collections and told a story with them. I didn’t make up a story that sounds good and catchy, I shared my REAL story. In a world full of fake and unauthentic content, people appreciate getting to know the REAL you.
Bottom line is, it feels great to be noticed by people you’ve never met, but the support of family and friends is TOP TIER!
Can you open up about how you funded your business?
I decided to start with a slow, simple and sustainable business design. I did not want to get in over my head so I plan to glow as I grow. The more money I make, the better my business will be!
I basically made the decision to fund my day DREAM with my day JOB!
When running a business, especially at startup, expenses will come from everywhere. You have to be able to maintain and keep them under control. My suggestion is to refrain from rewarding yourself until your profit level is more sustainable. As you make money, pour it back into your business until it makes sense to pull from it.
Be sure to research the cost associated with starting your business prior to launch. You don’t want to be at startup realizing you’re going to come up short. Keep in mind, what works for others may not work for you. Do your own research and consult with experts if necessary.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.styledbykatrinac.com
- Instagram: Styled by Katrina C
- Facebook: Styled by Katrina C
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