We were lucky to catch up with Vanessa Duran recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Vanessa thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. How did you come up with the idea for your business?

From an early age, I was captivated by the enchanting world of fashion. Even as a mere five-year-old, I found immense joy in transforming ordinary socks into dazzling works of art, and crafting off-shoulder dresses fit for my beloved Barbie dolls. This creative pursuit ignited a passion within me that would shape my path for years to come.

Growing up amid a bustling household of twelve siblings, with a remarkable eight girls amongst us, fashion was an ever-present aspect of our lives. My older sisters, served as my ultimate muses. Their effortlessly chic ensembles became a constant source of inspiration, tempting me to borrow their garments despite their ill-fit on my preteen frame.

However, it was through the silver screen that my fashion journey truly took flight. The iconic film “Clueless” left an indelible mark on my sartorial aspirations. Cher’s impeccable sense of style captivated me, each outfit meticulously put together to create a visual feast for the eyes. It was from this movie that I gleaned the unwavering determination to someday establish my own boutique, a haven where fashion and self-expression could coexist harmoniously.

Today, I am beyond thrilled to announce the realization of that heartfelt dream. My very own boutique has blossomed into a vibrant reality, a sanctuary where individuality is celebrated and every garment tells a story. Drawing inspiration from the fashion luminaries who have guided my fashion odyssey, I strive to curate a curated space that transcends the ordinary, offering an extraordinary selection of hand-picked pieces.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

I began my foray into the world of fashion at the age of 16, working at renowned boutiques such as Deetour in the World Famous Fashion Show Mall in Las Vegas, “Scoop New York” in Caesar’s Palace on the Strip, and later at Neiman Marcus in Las Vegas’ Fashion Show Mall. These experiences provided me with valuable insights into the world of fashion, accessories, and designer brands like Marc Jacobs and Balenciaga, as well as exclusive items like the $400 Rhinestone Kippy Belts worn by celebrities Madonna and Britney Spears at the time.

During my time at Scoop, I had the opportunity to personally style celebrities such as Jamie Presley, and Floyd Mayweather which further deepened my understanding of wardrobe staples and essential fashion pieces.

At the young age of 19, I joined Neiman Marcus, where I achieved impressive sales totaling one million dollars in my first year alone. As the Denim Specialist, I honed my ability to accurately size women simply by looking at them. Week after week, I would sell thousands of dollars’ worth of jeans, solidifying my conviction that my true calling was to assist individuals in expressing themselves through clothing.

After a fulfilling two-year tenure at Neiman Marcus, I knew that opening my own boutique was inevitable. Thus, the birth of “Plenty Boutique,” a culmination of my passion and dedication to helping people discover and embody their unique style through fashion.

Can you open up about how you funded your business?

After several years at Neiman Marcus, I found myself growing weary of the long, nine-hour retail days in Las Vegas. Seeking a change, I decided to explore the nightlife scene and ventured into the world of bottle service at the age of 22. I took a position at “Mist,” a cozy establishment nestled inside Treasure Island Casino, to gain hands-on experience with champagne knowledge, pouring techniques, and crafting various cocktails.

Although I enjoyed my time at Mist, I eventually moved on to “The Palms Casino,” where I was hired for bottle service at Playboy Club. Working in this fast-paced and financially rewarding environment allowed me to save up enough money to pursue my entrepreneurial dreams. However, I knew deep down that this lifestyle wasn’t sustainable. While it was exciting to serve celebrities and don the iconic Bunny Suit for just a few hours, I yearned for a more realistic and fulfilling path.

During a vacation in Hawaii, as I drove down a scenic country road, I made a pivotal decision: I would relocate to Texas and open my own boutiques. Fueled by this newfound determination, I returned home and promptly ordered the necessary supplies and equipment. It’s hard to believe that this adventurous leap of faith happened over 14 years ago, but it marked the beginning of an incredible journey.

We’d love to hear a story of resilience from your journey.

After saying goodbye to my 11 siblings and everything I had ever known in Las Vegas, I made the courageous decision to settle in a small town just outside of Austin. With only my mother-in-law for company, I took a leap of faith and embarked on the journey of establishing Plenty Boutique.

There were moments of uncertainty when I questioned my choice to leave behind an exciting and fulfilling life, along with my friends and familiar surroundings, for a town where I knew practically no one. However, deep down, I knew that this was the right path for me, and Marble Falls felt like the perfect place to start anew. Fueled by determination and passion, I wholeheartedly dedicated myself to this venture.

The first year brought incredible experiences and achievements, but the subsequent years presented their fair share of challenges and obstacles, particularly as we expanded to three locations. Yet, through it all, I reminded myself that this was my true calling and refused to give up. Now, after 14 years of unwavering commitment, we stand stronger than ever, a testament to my steadfast belief in my passion and the potential of this business.

So, despite the doubts and hurdles along the way, I can proudly say that I followed my heart and created something I can be proud of in this small town I once knew no one.
The journey has been far from easy, but the rewards have been immense. Looking back, I am grateful for every step taken and for the thriving business that Plenty Boutique has become.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.ShopPlentybtq.com
• Instagram: Instagram.com/plentybtq
• Facebook: Facebook.com/plentybtq

Image Credits
Garrett Stanley