L I G H T SHAVONDA WILLIS

Since she was a child, fashion has always been her passion Since adolescence, she was always the “go-to for styling her friends and family for various events As an adult, Shavonda had difficulties locating quality pieces within a reasonable price range from other brands As a single mom, Shavonda understood what it felt like to not be able to afford what she desired when it came to fashion, but she wanted to look and feel her best Being the godfearing woman that she is, she prayed about it, and God revealed to her that she was to become the missing piece to that puzzle for herself and other women

In 2014, Shavonda took a leap of faith and launched her first fashion venture, We Slay Boutique (WSB), which also stands for women ’ s strength and beauty Faith, family, and fashion are the hallmarks of what We Slay Boutique are built upon Shavonda trusted God and her intentions to create a collection of effortless looks for the modern, chic, working woman Her first collection was an immediate success, and We Slay Boutique was born It flourished beyond her imagination This brand is truly kissed by God

In a world of trends and fast fashion, Shavonda is a gem as she stays true to her commitment to fashion excellence through fabric quality and selection, appropriate stretch and fit fine details, and working with local manufacturers to stay hands on in the creative process.

Her natural eye for beautiful pieces and timeless designs are undisputable and undeniable Women are left feeling timeless, sexy, sassy and inspired Her faith, generous and kind-hearted spirit has created a lasting impression and fostered relationships with her clientele and social media followers

Because of her unique style, people have hired her to become their own personal stylist Shavonda has worked with some of the best in the industry Top stylists, Grammy award-winning singers, actresses, and the list can go on and on Shavonda makes no difference No matter her status, every woman is amazing in her eyes and worthy of being treated as such

We Slay Boutique has been featured in several womens fashion and business blogs Feel free to check out the story

At what moment did you realize fashion was for you? Was it a specific look that you put together and you realized I can do this for the rest of my life?

I cant say it was one particular moment because I love fashion Ever since I was a little girl, I would take my sister and my old pieces that my mom was going to get rid of, and I would make clothing for my baby dolls

I learned how to sew by hand from my grandmother; in my eyes, she and my mother were the prettiest women I had ever met, and baby, when they got dressed, they got dressed and outdressed everyone at whatever event they were headed to

How would you describe your creative eye when it comes to fashion?

When it comes to my style, I believe that my creativity stems from not always having money to purchase high end pieces, pieces that I would see in Beverly Hills or on Melrose I would go down there and just window shop sometimes Also, I loved thrift shopping, so I would buy pieces from the thrift store that were “ name brand, then I would pair them with pieces that I would find from Walmart or Target, and I would sit and play with different styles and different patterns Once I felt good about it within my spirit, the look was born I try to think out of the box I like pieces that you don’t see everywhere I’m not one that’s following trends all the time For me, it’s more important to feel good about what you ’ re wearing rather than trying to fit in with others because it’s what they’re doing I say to my clients, Stay true to who you are At the core of your bean, you make the clothing; the clothing does not make you

Tell us about We Slay Boutique. What do you hope women take away from your brand?

When I was sure that I wanted to start my boutique I wasn’t sure of the name It took me a while I prayed about it and asked God to allow me to combine my calling with my passion I know that I am called to the women ’ s ministry

My greatest hope for my boutique is that it represents who I am Once God gave me the name, He revealed to me what it would stand for -- women, strength, and beauty -because he knows my greatest hope is that every woman that purchases a piece from me or come across my boutique always walks away feeling empowered, uplifted and to know that they are seen. That is our gold here at We Slay Boutique

What advice do you have for the upcoming entrepreneurs looking to get their start in the fashion industry?

The advice I would give to anyone daring to step into this industry is to do your research! Make sure it’s what you want to do This is not a get-rich-quick industry Make sure your boutique is built to serve Its not just about selling clothing Its about telling your story throw your clothing

Make sure youre relatable This is not the industry for you if you ’ re not a people person You have to have a heart to serve if you truly want to make it in this business

What is your definition of a pretty woman who hustles?

My definition of a pretty woman who hustles She’s not just pretty on the outside; she’s pretty on the inside She operates from a pure heart, knowing that true beauty starts from within She is willing to give her all to any endeavor she sets out on yet is able to maintain her dignity and class Shes humble and determined

This is my definition of a pretty woman who hustles