Today we’d like to introduce you to Gillian Bartley.
Gillian, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
In 2007 prior to graduating from high school, I started a job working at a pharmacy. Skeptical about whether or not this was the career field for me, I begin to grow discouraged realizing this wasn’t what I was interested in anymore. Fast forward to 2009, I gave birth to my son. Having a child made me come to the realization that I wanted to be able to provide for him far better than I could imagine a regular job helping me do so. It wasn’t enough money for me to comfortably be the provider I see myself being without struggling to get by. My best friend, at the time, said let’s take a leap of faith quit our jobs and start an online boutique. At first, I had doubts. But my creative spirit and love for the fashion industry made me more inquisitive about us making the move towards the idea. I had absolutely no knowledge or experience about starting a business or where to even being. We actually skipped the idea of the online boutique and jumped directly into opening up a storefront.
Which is a lot more stressful and a way bigger responsibility. People aware of our sense of style is how we gained clientele and were able progress as business partners but things didn’t work out as planned. Also, another business opportunity came along that made more sense financially at the time, so I had put my dreams on hold and part ways. I got into the hair business at a time when business was booming but soon fashion would find my heart again. After many years listening to friends and family ask why am I no longer involved in the fashion industry, I decided to give it another shot. Finally opening my very own online boutique GG Fiona. And here we are!
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
It’s been a great experience so far, definitely not smooth. The independent business world requires a lot of invested time and money which also requires a lot of patience because you have to build the brand in order for it to become successful. Consistency plays a major role and its a very competitive market because it’s so many online boutiques. You have to focus on branding to set yourself apart from the others.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about GG Fiona– what should we know?
My business, which I like to consider it being called my brand, is named GG Fiona. (Named after myself). We specialize in a mixture of styles for the chick that demands to be stylish throughout her day. From sun up to sundown we have the needed attire to fit any situation, whether you’re on the go, headed to happy hour, any elegant setting or the need to just stand out in style we have you covered. What makes me proud is that I actually took the risk for the reward and it’s growing daily. I also love what I do and I feel like this is my God-given talent that I’m blessed to be able to do. I don’t think God blessed me with the talent to work in the pharmaceutical field. And even though the hair business is very lucrative it’s not my first love or what I see myself being ultimately successful in like I see in fashion. What sets me apart is my drive to win and my desire to be successful. The growth itself shows me it’s possible.
Any shoutouts? Who else deserves credit in this story – who has played a meaningful role?
I’d actually like to give credit and praise to my friend that I took the leap of faith with. If it wasn’t for her, I probably still be at the pharmacy till this day not believing in my dreams. It’s also amazing to see the level of success she’s reached individually once we parted ways knowing all that she’s been through. Her story alone is what keeps me driven and lets me know to never give up on your dreams because your dreams can fund your reality. I also have to thank the people that shop with me and support me as well because they play a major role in my progression.
Pricing:
- $10-$100
Contact Info:
- Address: 1980 Post Oak Blvd Suite 1500
Houston, TX 77056 - Website: www.ggfiona.com
- Phone: 8324227085
- Email: [email protected]
- Instagram: @ggfionboutique
- Facebook: ggfiona
- Twitter: ggfionaboutique
Image Credit:
Derrick Hines, Candy Reid, Angela Marie
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