We were lucky to catch up with Lexus Copeland recently and have shared our conversation below.

Lexus, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Let’s kick things off with talking about how you serve the underserved, because in our view this is one of the most important things the small business community does for society – by serving those who the giant corporations ignore, small business helps create a more inclusive and just world for all of us.

Yes, my business serves the underserved community. I feel my community is underserved in many ways. The biggest way my community is underserved is access to resources and opportunities and has been for 20+ years. Resources and opportunities that comes freely and easily to others. Whether it be proper tax filing, business exposure or something as simple as experiencing a hockey game. Most, importantly I have recently decided to continue my mom’s journey of philanthropy and started hosting community events/pop up shops where we not only showcase and highlight black underrated small businesses in our community while also giving back to the local community. My events not only allows the community to shop with us, but we also provide free resources like tax or business consulting and giveaways to experiences people may not be able to afford on a daily basis. This past weekend, I hosted a Back to School Bash where we we’re able to giveaway over 200 school supply bags, free prizes like game tickets and also allow the attendees to support local vendors all in one place. It was a success, everyone went home with something in the midst of having a good time and networking. We plan to grow and expand our purpose and drive in my local community. I want my business to be strongly correlated to my community. I know my community to know that they are seen, heard and appreciated. I’d want my events to be memorable in a positive manner for years to come.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Lexus Copeland, owner of Braceboutique and Legacy Lifestyle Clothing. I am a mother, serial entrepreneur, stylist and most recently,a philanthropist. I got in to the fashion and entrepreneurship industry in 2016 when I started my online clothing boutique. It was something that came natural to me because I’ve always loved fashion. People in my area would ask me for fashion advice, to style them, to purchase my personal pieces or inquire where I purchase unique pieces. So the idea clicked in my head! Why not give the people what they’re asking for?

I believe there are a few things that set myself apart from the rest. I solve everyday problems for my customers. Whether it’s helping them find outfits for special occasions, their body type or pieces to boost their confidence. I like to do the hard part for my customers when it comes to pairing the items I sell so their shopping experience is a breeze. Something like a one stop shop. Most times my customers come thinking it will be just a check out but they end up getting an experience and possibly a friendship. I don’t solely focus on the money, I genuinely care that they are satisfied. Because that one experience can turn into a lifetime loyal customer.

I am most proud of my growth in business itself. I have worked hard and am currently working even harder to double the growth. I thank God for allowing my brand to be in rooms, states and countries I have yet to travel to. Just having the ability and blessing to work with countless household names and genuinely create timeless moments in my pieces.

Everyone should know that my brand is limitless and welcoming to all. We have very affordable prices but yet quality items. Every item is hand picked and inspected by myself. If an item is not up to my standard it will not make it to the site. Bracey is my middle name. Each piece is something I would wear, that’s why Braceboutique is named after myself. It’s really a glimpse into my personal closet.

Have you ever had to pivot?

This is a great question, especially the phase that I have currently entered with my business. Most recently, in the past 5 months I have had to pivot in all three areas (business, career and life). When you have to pivot in one area, all three areas are effected. The life saying is very true, “never get too comfortable!” For the past 6 years I was definitely comfortable with the results of my business. As much as I didn’t want to, I had to get uncomfortable to grow. Back to the drawing board, I went. I didn’t want to get my business go entirely but I had to think of something new and catchy. I expanded my brand by physically getting in front of the people through events, so I can make in person connections and meet people that aren’t into tech. God has been dusting off my people skills, professionalism and marketing skills. Online and in person are two different categories. Online you have to prove yourself, yet in person you have to be yourself. I’m honestly thankful for the pivot because I’ve learned new strengths about myself.

Can you tell us about what’s worked well for you in terms of growing your clientele?

I know it sounds cliche but consistency, being consistent most important with anything in life. Secondly, I’d say don’t be afraid to grow and change with the times. I know personally when TikTok initially came out, I said “oh gosh, another app.” In all honesty, I wish I would have jumped on the TikTok trend when it was first created especially for my business. That is possibly the only app where I’ve literally seen not only businesses but people’s lives change not just over night but instantly.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://legacylifestyleclothing.bigcartel.com/
• Instagram: https://instagram.com/braceboutique?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
• Other: https://www.tiktok.com/@braceboutique?_r=1&_d=ea2293d01d37lf&sec_uid=MS4wLjABAAAAYbQNID2DjrDP8ghZGGhOUzphehe0ACwbvnznr6DCVvWdTN4-yZ9EatNUHeSML5qg&share_author_id=6999037610493903878&sharer_language=en&source=h5_m&u_code=dl025d28eceiid&ug_btm=b2878,b5836&sec_user_id=MS4wLjABAAAACt2hZI3UV9DtQ3-GQ_W9H4do9hvj7pD9guaaBbpPfKi11fBaZO3sI5OzzsyhDp4s&utm_source=copy&social_share_type=5&utm_campaign=client_share&utm_medium=ios&tt_from=copy&user_id=7012772703162631173&share_link_id=823DE0D3-DCEC-4DF1-A899-623145E48EA4&share_app_id=1233

Image Credits
Studio Shot: Brandon T. Instagram: @__BThomas__ Event Shots: Jamond C. @Beretphotos