We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Lanita Porterfield a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Hi Lanita , thanks for joining us today. So let’s jump to your mission – what’s the backstory behind how you developed the mission that drives your brand?

I want women of all shapes and sizes to feel beautiful when wearing a dress from Virtuous Closet. Affordability is at the heart of our mission. We understand the importance of feeling great without breaking the bank. That’s why we offer high-quality, stylish dresses at prices that are accessible to everyone.

Lanita , love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

Virtuous Closet have formal clothing that is very affordable. Virtuous Closet is something that I have wanted to start for so long but I went into the military, then college , got married, and had two beautiful children. I think it’s very important for me to show my kids that they can accomplish their dreams after having children. My daughter was diagnosed with Autism and I want to be able to have the time and financial stability to get my daughter the best resources she needs. Life has taught me to be loving, kind, and to never give up . I take these experiences to Virtuous Closet and carry it in my customer service department, I am determined to make women feel celebrated, and beautiful with affordable beautiful pieces.

How about pivoting – can you share the story of a time you’ve had to pivot?

I have gotten comfortable in Corporate America and was ok with not fulfilling my journey of opening Virtuous Closet. My daughter was diagnosed with Autism and was none verbal and has to have Aba Appointments every day. There are also not many resources summer fulltime resources for special needs kids in Roanoke Virginia . I have come to a place where I have to pivot and eventually leave corporate America. These challenges has pushed me to launch Virtuous Closet because roanoke does not have enough resources for my special needs child. It has given me a drive to push to start Virtuous Closet. Sometimes being uncomfortable will propel you into your purpose.

Learning and unlearning are both critical parts of growth – can you share a story of a time when you had to unlearn a lesson?

Growing up I seen so many women once they have kids they give up their dreams and solely focus on their kids. No one ever said that to me but it’s something that I saw all around me. It is something that I have had to unlearn. I got pregnant as soon as I got married ,left the Army, and enrolled in College . I was happy that I had a bundle of joy on the way but I also for a second thought it may be over. I have had to prove to myself that accomplishing your dreams with having kids can be done, it just takes longer. It’s ok to take a break or pace yourself but I can’t give up.

Contact Info:

• Website: Virtuous-Closet.com
• Instagram: Virtuous Closet LLC
• Facebook: Virtuous Closet LLC

Image Credits
Roanoke Regional commerce.