Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Hicks.
Christina, can you briefly walk us through your story – how you started and how you got to where you are today.
I started working in retail management right out of college and after a few years opened my first brick and mortar store in the Galleria area. I sold the boutique after I got married because I wanted to focus on starting a family. I was a stay at home mom and as my boys got older and became more independent, I realized I wanted to get back to work. I wanted to still be able to volunteer at my boy’s schools and be there for my kids when they needed me, so I decided to start Chicks Picks Boutique out of my home.
Overall, has it been relatively smooth? If not, what were some of the struggles along the way?
When taking on an adventure of opening up my own business, I needed a solid foundation to build upon. Without the support of my husband, my two boys, and my mom, this venture would not have been successful! Their support definitely has made for a smoother path towards a successful business. My oldest son even came up with the name of the boutique, so it was definitely fun having the whole family involved! One of the biggest struggles I’ve had in starting my business is understanding who my customer will be and what their needs are. It’s definitely challenging thinking that my customers might not like what I pick out or I won’t have enough inventory or too much inventory.
My advice to women who are starting out on their journey is: do your research, start off slow, and make sure you have a great support system!
Please tell us about Chicks Picks Boutique.
I have an in-home women’s boutique and a website. I specialize in women’s trendy clothing, jewelry, and accessories at amazing prices! Women from all over Atascocita, Humble, Kingwood and throughout Houston are able to schedule a shopping appointment with me where they’ll receive that one on one individualized attention as they shop and I believe this is what sets me apart from brick and mortar stores! It’s like having your own personal shopper. Some ladies come in groups with their girlfriends and have a mini shopping party and I provide refreshments! I also do traveling pop up shows at vendor fairs.
There’s a wealth of academic research that suggests that lack of mentors and networking opportunities for women has materially affected the number of women in leadership roles. Smart organizations and industry leaders are working to change this, but in the meantime, do you have any advice for finding a mentor and building a network?
Networking is a big factor that tremendously helps my business! Social media and being involved in my community are the most important aspects in helping build my business! I sponsor many of the schools in my area as well as different sports teams. I love to give back to my community as much as I can!
Contact Info:
- Address: 17707 Carr Creek Ln.
Humble, TX 77346
(By appointment only) - Website: www.chickspicksboutique.net
- Phone: 832-797-8351
- Email: chickspicks1@gmail.com
- Instagram: @chickspicksboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chickspicks/
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