Today we’d like to introduce you to Tori Brown.
Hi Tori, we’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I am originally from North Carolina and recently moved to Atlanta in August 2021. I attended the University Of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where I majored in Public Relations and Advertising. I’ve always had an entrepreneurial spirit and love all things fashion. While I always wanted to have my own business, it was hard because of start-up costs as well the demands of school. In August of 2020, I began planning what the process would look like for obtaining a business license, business bank account and selling platform. In February of 2021, I began searching for inventory that I felt aligned with my style, encouraged confidence and were high quality. It was also important that my business provided the latest trends at an affordable price point. In March, my friend Halie and I took pictures in some of the first pieces which I used for the creation of the website. Fast forwarding, I launched my business on April 14, 2021 and have felt so much support. I am especially thankful to my family and friends, who have reposted, shared the word or tagged themselves in the brand’s clothes. I wouldn’t be anywhere without the customers who continually support me.
As the face of the brand, I typically model my own products and post them to @shopbrownbabe on Instagram. I’ve remained consistent with posts, which has increased my following. Engaging with customers and being open with communication has also helped me to expand.
In my transition from college to Atlanta, I’ve tried my best to network, invest in my brand and use social media platforms to gain awareness and promote Brown Babe. It hasn’t been easy, but I have gained more customers and increased my inventory tremendously.
Recently, I have been offering drop-off/ pick ups in the Atlanta area in addition to my online site.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Definitely not, the first struggle was saving money as a college student to put towards inventory. With goal setting, I was able to invest. After I launched my business, there have been dry periods and days where there were no sales. Figuring out how to bounce back was hard. I remember thinking should I have a sale or reduce prices and really feeling stuck. I had less than 500 followers, so my main focus was to gain awareness. I did a “500 Followers Giveaway” and though I didn’t reach the goal Brown Babe did gain some attention. I’ve also encountered issues where inventory that I’ve ordered wasn’t up to par and I couldn’t sell it. Even though there have been challenges, I’ve been resilient as well as thankful for the journey.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
Brown Babe is an online, casual-luxury brand for women that strives to celebrate women of all shapes and sizes. We are committed to providing the latest trends at an affordable price point.
I believe our price point and unique clothing sets us apart from other brands. Brand wise, I am proud of the growth in our marketing and dedication to our customer’s growing needs. Specifically being able to deliver quality pieces in a timely manner.
Brown Babe is committed to making you feel and look great with our quality pieces. We will be dropping our Spring Collection this upcoming March.
What were you like growing up?
Growing up, I was full of laughter, jokes, and always very loving. I’ve always valued friendships and being there for others. Sports were also a big part of my childhood. I played basketball, danced, swam, ran track and cross country. Of them all, I loved cross country because it gave me a sense of freedom. I still enjoy running as a form of exercise.
From a young age, I enjoyed fashion and can vividly remember putting on fashion shows for my family as a child. I would also perform Beyoncé songs and make up plays. Entertaining my family was always so fun!
As I got older, I grew fond of taking trips to the mall with my mom. It honestly became a happy place for me. I enjoyed keeping up with the latest trends. I had become the person my friends asked for fashion/ styling advice.
Contact Info:
- Email: shopbrownbabe@gmail.com
- Website: www.shopbrownbabe.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopbrownbabe/
- Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/shopbrownbabe/
