Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in fashion but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Sara Lashkari, Founder and Owner of Lily Love Boutique, located in Playa del Rey, CA, USA.
What's your business, and who are your customers?
Lily Love Boutique is a women's boho-contemporary boutique that offers the latest trends at affordable prices. Our customers are mainly women between the ages of 28-50. I pride myself on finding unique pieces that are not found just anywhere! It takes a lot of time to curate cohesive and stylish collections each season.
Tell us about yourself
I started Lily Love Boutique out of a long-time passion for fashion. As a young girl, I remember loving to sketch dresses and style my barbies, as well as myself, haha! I started working in retail in high school and then went on to discover global fashions while living in South Korea and Italy. After moving to LA from Canada in 2011, I attended FIDM and studied Merchandise Marketing to pursue my career. I started interning at the TV channel E! and then became an employee there for almost four years. Additionally, I worked as a wardrobe stylist for several TV commercials and for celebrities. One of my most memorable jobs was working with a member of the Swedish House Mafia and his family on the island of Ibiza for 2 months!
After all my experiences, I started my own freelance work as an influencer. After people complimented me on my style and asked for advice or where I got my outfit, I thought- why not start my own store? Starting my boutique was always a dream and just seemed like a logical next step in my journey. Then, when my mom passed away in 2018, I knew I had to do something to keep me busy and make her proud. She knew this was my dream. I also named it after her.
What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?
My biggest accomplishment so far has been staying afloat during covid. I had meant to open my doors in early March 2020, but we all know what happened then. I had to pivot and started online first, then opened the doors in October 2020.
What's one of the hardest things that come with being a business owner?
I think one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner is having to pick yourself up, motivate yourself constantly, and manage all the daily tasks that need to get done! It's a LOT, especially as one person.
What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?
When things are REALLY hard, try to push through. There are days you will want to give up. Keep trying. Do what makes you happy, not what you think will make others happy. Try to add your spin on everything you do- it will shine through!
Where can people find you and your business?
Website: https://lilyloveboutique.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lilyloveboutique15
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lilylove.boutique/
If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.
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