Today, we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie Rudison.
Hi Stephanie, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
In November 2019, I launched Myelle Monroe Chic Boutique online with a dual purpose: creating a legacy for my daughters and connecting with other women through the realm of fashion. Fashion is a powerful expression that reflects one’s confidence and emotions. I strongly believe in the motto, “When you look good, you feel good.”
Many women lose themselves in the daily grind, impacting their identity and self-assurance. I aimed to engage with women, guiding them on how fashion can boost their confidence, regardless of their challenges. There’s a unique joy in wearing a favorite outfit paired with essential accessories. My goal is for women to feel regal when they dress up. Life is a celebration, and our attire should reflect that spirit. It warms my heart to know that I can positively influence women to feel fantastic about themselves.
I never doubted the success of my boutique. After nurturing the idea for a while, I finally took the leap. Bringing this dream to life was a heartfelt prayer. While numerous boutiques and women’s stores exist, I wanted my selections to stand out. My aspiration was not only to inspire my daughters but also to offer women timeless, classic pieces that resonate with their essence without breaking the bank.
Can you talk to us about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned? Looking back, would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have always possessed an entrepreneurial drive and am a firm believer that anyone can thrive as an entrepreneur with the right mindset, resources, and tools. Prior to launching my clothing boutique, I owned an extended-hours childcare center in Illinois for eight years. Despite the hurdle of starting amid a recession – a dream I harbored since the age of 12 – it was both a remarkable accomplishment and a profound challenge.
Despite facing rejection from financial institutions for small business loans, I diligently saved a substantial amount to turn this dream into reality. In November 2009, we commenced serving families, catering to nontraditional parents who worked late shifts and weekends. The initial phase was demanding, but after approximately two years, we finally began turning a profit. Just as we started witnessing growth, the economic downturn hit us, affecting us financially. The state’s financial issues resulted in delays in childcare payments, causing us to miss payroll deadlines. Timely payroll is essential in any business to ensure smooth operations.
While the staff initially understood the difficulties, the repeated missed payrolls began to weigh heavily. The persistent stress of uncertain payments for our employees became unsustainable, ultimately leading us to the tough choice of shutting down our business. It was a challenging yet necessary decision made for the well-being of all involved.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe you can tell us more about your work next?
I am the proud owner of Myelle Monroe Chic Boutique, an online store dedicated to women’s clothing and accessories. My passion for fashion and apparel has always been a driving force. From a young age, owning a boutique was a dream of mine.
Interacting with many women, I received numerous compliments on my outfits and requests for styling help. I unintentionally became a walking brand ambassador for several big retail companies. This inspired me to venture out on my own. After careful planning and research, Myelle Monroe was established, named after my two younger daughters. Through Myelle Monroe Chic Boutique, it is my pleasure to empower women to embrace their unique style through fashion. The core of my brand is to offer trendy and affordable chic options that cater to both their professional and personal lifestyles.
Women should feel confident and stylish in every aspect of their lives, whether enjoying cocktails with friends or making a statement in a boardroom. Our mission is to cultivate lasting relationships with our customers and make a personal impact on the fashion industry.
Can you tell us more about what you were like growing up?
Born and raised in Louisiana, I’m a southern belle with a fiery spirit, inspired by the fierce women who shaped my path. They taught me to be fearless, free-spirited, and unapologetically confident. I’ve always reached for the stars, chasing dreams others thought impossible.
At 16, I defied the odds, welcoming my first child before tossing my cap in the air at high school graduation. This unexpected twist only fueled my ambition, propelling me to conquer new heights. Soon after becoming a mom, I dove into college, earning degrees in Education and Leadership & Administration.
For the past 16 years, I’ve devoted myself to educating young minds, including those with special needs. While I cherished this work, my passion for fashion tugged at my heartstrings. Four years ago, I made a bold move to transform my dream into reality by launching an online women’s boutique.
Contact Info:
- Website: www.shopmyellemonroe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopmyellemonroe/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/myellemonroechicboutique-111373017007318/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/shopmyellemonr1
