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

Victoria, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Have you ever had an amazing boss? What did you learn from them? Maybe you can share a story that illustrates the kind of boss they were or maybe you can share your thoughts on what you think made them an awesome person to work for?

In 2018, I was a sophomore at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, when I received an email from my fashion professor, Dr. Dixon. It was an opportunity to volunteer, at a local middle school in Greensboro, NC, for their annual fashion show! I was in love with modeling at the time, and it was a great opportunity to mentor the students. I met with the head coordinator, Mrs. Terri Sims-Starling. She was the most kindness, business savvy women I have ever met! Instantly we made a connection when I was able to take charge and direct the students during our first runway meeting. Little did I know, that is when my new title of Assistant Event Coordinator took place. Mrs. Sims-Starling owns her own business, T. Michelle Weddings and Events. featured in Essence Magazine, Black Bride and Triad Weddings. After the fashion show, she offered me a position on her team, and of course I accepted!

The top three things I have learned from being an Assistant Wedding Coordinator is how to provide excellent customer service for an abundance of personalities, remaining calm in high-tense situations and showing leadership for smooth transitions. Mrs. Sims-Starling was able to build my confidence not only as a young women but a business owner as well. I continue to use these skills while running my business, Shop Blvssom LLC. I thank her for taking me under her wing, she is definitely the best boss I ever had!

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?

My name is Victoria Harris, a 24 year old Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur. I was born and raised in Charlotte, NC. I am the proud owner of Shop Blvssom LLC, now entering my 7th year in business. Shop Blvssom LLC is a luxury fashion brand that provides only the highest quality of apparel and accessories. The time and craftsmanship that goes into my products, provides my customers with a unique design that will last a lifetime. Every item is carefully handmade and shipped to customers world wide.

My custom designs includes, but are not limited to, formal wear, and special events. I am most proud when I am able to successfully provide my services to clients, not only with a custom one of one design, but an entire experience that they can cherish forever.

I have been featured in many fashion shows such as Heartfelt Fashion, TFCP New York Fashion Week and Greensboro Fashion Week where I was awarded the Best College Designer. In April of 2019, I coordinated my own Spring Fashion Show, Essentials of Blvssom. I designed two collections, with approximately 20 one of a kind pieces. I was in SHOCK when I found the entire venue was packed and tickets sold out. It was a beautiful way to get more in touch with my community and to showcase my passion.

My most recent accomplishment was designing a 10 piece apparel collection that is now being featured on Shein.com! Over 8 months of hard work and planning, my designs are being shared with millions all around the world. https://us.shein.com/designer/10000108

Any stories or insights that might help us understand how you’ve built such a strong reputation?

My bubbly personality and communication skills helped me to build my reputation within my target market. While in school, I signed up for every networking event, fashion showcase or business panel that I could find. Being able to put my business in front of new people helped tremendously to spread my business across the city. Greensboro is a small college focused city and the locals really wanted to see the young generation succeed, My fellow classmates also played a major role, when they needed they’re clothing altered or apparel painted, they would call me! Before I graduated, I wanted to ensure I left an inspiring impression for the fashion generation to come.

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

When I first started my business in 2016, It was first called Beauty Inspired by V. I created screen printed t-shirts and embroidered hats that were designed to uplift and empower women to love themselves for who they are. While my supplier was located in Charlotte, I was not able to continue the business my freshman year in college.

Letting go of the business was hard but that did not stop me from coming up with my next idea. I decided to start a skin care brand, Natural Blvssom, that specialized in homemade shea butters. With this business, I was able to make products right from my dorm room, I ran this business for a few semesters until the first day I touched a sewing machine.

I took my first apparel construction class in the spring and after making my first floral top, I absolutely fell in love with it. My bestfriend from back home wanted me to create two custom pieces for a photo shoot and it was the perfect time for me to practice. Her photoshoot was hit and she was stunning! My fashion business began to soar and Shop Blvssom LLC was born.

I had to pivot my business three times until I found my true passion. From time to time, I will still create jars of homemade shea butter as a reminder of where it all started.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shopblvssomllc.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/shopblvssomllc
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/shopblvssomllc
• Twitter: www.twitter.com/shopblvssomllc

Image Credits
Graduation NCAT photo: Taken by Akeya Garrett AKA Graduation Photo: Taken by Erick Wheeler Greensboro Fashion Week: Taken by Craig Muzse