Today we’d like to introduce you to Tanisha Green.
Hi Tanisha, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
I was born and raised in the heart of Chicago by my father Albert Green where I graduated from UIC College Prep high school. I am an up-and-coming entrepreneur and owner of a women’s online boutique by the name of ENVIOUS EGO.
Being that I was raised by my dad I wasn’t the girliest of the bunch. My go-to items were hoodies and jeans. Let’s not forget the Jordans. A true tomboy at heart. However, as I grew older and began to step more into my womanhood, fashion grew as a passion for me out of pure curiosity and fascination I craved from lack thereof.
In the mix of it all, I found Instagram. I know I’m not that old, but Instagram was not as popular as it is now when I was in high school. Instagram quickly became a fashion gateway for me. My life changed the day I came across Akira’s IG page. For a very long time, that became the only store I shopped at in person and online. You can be effortlessly styled by the workers and have the chance to exploit your sense of style by trying out different looks to see what fits you best.
I’ll never forget the first time I walked into Akira. That is a store that I admire deeply. I enjoy the fact of it being a one stop shop when trying to achieve “that look” no matter the occasion. I remember looking around saying wow this is beautiful, I want this, I can do this. It felt so right, I would have been a fool to not follow my heart. This is when the idea officially was planted in my head.
It took for Covid to happen to push me to take action. I realized that working for myself was the only job that would best suit me. I remember sitting on the bed and discussing with my partner my desire to own an online boutique, let’s do this! It was time to match passion with action.
I did extensive research. I was determined to gain as much knowledge as possible to kick my business off the right way. I searched for authentic-quality vendors and much more. It then took me months of randomly jotting down every name that came to mind before coming up with ENVIOUS EGO! I spent hours of going through the inventory to choose which items would best align with my brand.
Before I knew it I had a logo made, inventory stocked, business cards, photoshoot and model had been booked. The business Instagram page was made and I just knew my dreams were actually coming to life.
After launching via social media I was introduced to pop-up shops and that is what truly made my business takeoff! I’ve met my most loyal customers there and I’ve made the most profit at these events. I enjoy having the chance to interact with my current and future customers. The support is truly a blessing.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Heck no! Success is a journey within itself. I feel there is no way of bypassing obstacles, as well as trials and tribulations that come with building an empire.
It is important to stay authentic to self. There are so many people that may run the same business as you, so you have to find out what makes you stand out and stand on it. Some of the struggles I’ve faced are with marketing/branding. I’ve come to the realization that successful marketing and branding is more than just making a post. You have to follow behind everything you do for your business with intent.
Although fashion is a passion of mine, one of my biggest obstacles was putting myself out there as the face and representation of my brand. Letting it be known that hey my name is Tanisha, and this is what my business has to offer. I’ve always been one to stay to myself, therefore social media is a complex platform to be a part of. Understandably, it may come easier for some than others. With it being such a major part in the success of my business, I’ve had to ground myself and realize that the desire of success that I crave for ENVIOUS EGO will never compare to the fear I have of social media. Determined to be the pop of color in a room full or gray.
Even with a strategic business plan, the industry is always growing and new trends will forever come about. Challenges are inevitable, even with all levels of preparedness. But never impossible to triumph!
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
The slogan for ENVIOUS EGO is “Fashion That Fits Your Ego Is A Style To Envy”. Whenever you rock my brand, you are guaranteed to turn heads in any room. Rather it be in the simplest two-piece or a look for brunch with the girls. Your outfit will catch the attention of everyone in the room. One can’t be stopped when the outfit matches the ego level! You feel confident, fierce and unstoppable.
My brand is known for bright colors, distinct patterns and bold details. Unique and daring looks are a norm for us.
I’m most proud brand-wise for staying true to my corky self. I wanted to sell pieces that aren’t seen as often, and possibly a bit harder to style due to the uniqueness of them. I plan to expand and continue to bring more pieces to my boutique that are out of the box and push the ladies to be bold and stand out. Let your fashion speak volumes. Own the room In ENVIOUS EGO.
I will be offering a styling service on my website very soon! I’d like for everyone to follow my page to stay updated on all things ENVIOUS EGO. Come and join the ENVIOUS Dolls. I always have new products at all of my events that sell out of before they can touch the website. Be sure to come on by! Become an Envious Doll – You won’t regret it. Of course, if you can’t make it, be sure to visit the website for your next unique look.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
Indefinitely! The pandemic has taught me so much. It allowed a grace period of self-reflection that was greatly needed in my life. I was able to take a step back and analyze the direction I wanted my life to go in and truly focus on my business. Nevertheless, it gave me the time to direct my energy into all the things that meant the most to me. I’ve gained a great deal of self-awareness and courage due to the Covid crisis – in which I’ve been able to pour into my business. With all things said, we are resilient people. Covid is what ultimately pushed me to take action and start ENVIOUS EGO.
Contact Info:
- Email: enviousego@yahoo.com
- Website: WWW.ENVIOUSEGO.COM
- Instagram: @shop_enviousego
- Facebook: Envious Ego
- Other: https://enviousego.com/
Image Credits:
Katherine Harris
