Today we’d like to introduce you to Danielle Haynes.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I was born and raised in Southwest Houston, TX, Alief to be exact. Growing up, I loved dressing up and coordinating different looks together. I was the type of person who needed a new outfit for every event. (Who did I think I was?) I always received compliments on the way I dressed so I knew eventually I wanted to give the people something that not only made them feel good but LOOK good as well. Shortly after graduating from Prairie View A&M University and working in the real world, I quickly came to the realization that I did not want to work for someone else for the rest of my life. Helping them accomplish their company’s goals all while mine were put to the side. I knew I needed to lay my foundation soon so that in the near future, I can say, “I am my OWN boss.” After much research, advice from my fellow entrepreneurs and completing my legal documentation I launched, “Bawse Bae” in the Fall of 2018. I chose the word “Bawse” because after reading the definition of this particular spelling I saw myself being described, “a human being who exudes confidence, turns heads, reaches goals, finds inner strength, smiles genuinely- because they’ve fought through it all and made it out on the other side. The double-handed praise was created for them.” Everything about that describes me to a T and adding Bae to it added just enough sass. I am no stranger to the fashion industry, having spent over five years as a runway and published editorial model. My prior fashion experience assisted me in becoming a successful entrepreneur, where I work with suppliers and wholesalers to make decisions about inventory and the latest fashions while delivering excellent customer service. Passionate about giving back, I also work as a full-time educator in the district I grew up in and part-time in the makeup industry in hopes of helping the students and people I come in contact with find the boss within themselves.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
Of course, nothing in life worth having comes easy. The road has not always been smooth, every new business owner has to learn the ins and outs through trial and error, there’s only so much researching can prepare you for. Some of the struggles I faced included; connecting with my audience, time management, staying consistent with content, etc. The advice I would give young women starting on their journey would be, have a plan, write it down and see it through! Although you may have to adjust a few things along the way, it’s always good to have a strategy in place and commit to it. Also, staying consistent is key to a successful business. (yes even when numbers are low) Consistency establishes awareness, trust amongst your audience and helps deliver your products or services efficiently. Lastly, but certainly not least is keep the faith! God wouldn’t give you the vision without the tools to execute it.
We’d love to hear more about Bawse Bae.
Bawse Bae is an online-based boutique that carries a variety of looks from the latest fashion trends and seasons. As a brand, I am most proud of the support I receive from not only friends and family but complete strangers on a daily basis. As business owners, we tend to be extremely hard on ourselves especially when it comes to our art, service or products. We want everything to be perfect but in reality everything won’t always be but regardless I have an entire team of supporters who not only share my content on their social media platforms but purchase my merchandise. I couldn’t be more thankful. I believe my authenticity sets me apart from others. I take pride in showing that all of my looks can be worn on different body types and not just one particular body size. A lot of customers don’t feel like they are represented in the fashion world because the models for the larger companies are all unrealistic shapes and sizes.
Do you feel like there was something about the experiences you had growing up that played an outsized role in setting you up for success later in life?
I definitely believe the experiences I had growing up played a vital role in not only how strong I am but my success as well. My mother always instilled in me to keep God first and lead by example. She showed me at an early age if it’s something you want you have to go out and get it and let no one stop you from attaining it.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.bawsebae.com
- Phone: 2816689074
- Email: shopbawsebae@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/shopbawsebae?igshid=1xr0fbvbolt3v
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Bawse-Bae-2058558937737242/
Image Credit:
Kolby Delce
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