We had the good fortune of connecting with Cheri Banks and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Cheri, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started CB2 Styles LLC in 2019 with the thought that I wanted to help people feel their best with what they wear. There were lots of people that I came across that told me they didn’t understand how to dress for their body type, they didn’t know how to put outfits together, they wanted help with their style, but could never find someone who was affordable to assist them. I thought to myself, I’ve already been helping people for free and it makes me feel amazing when they love how I’ve dressed them and they feel confident after the fact. So, my next step was to turn this into an actual business.
What should our readers know about your business?
CB² Styles is a styling business dedicated to helping everyday men and women find their most authentic selves through style. I specialize in helping people find affordable clothing that will fit their lifestyle and needs while making them feel their best. What sets me apart is that I offer services for both men and women, whereas most people focus on one gender. I constantly stress the importance of assisting you with finding affordable clothing and utilizing what you already have in your closet.
I am proud that people I’ve come in contact with recognize my brand for never switching up when it comes to my #1 priority (which is always buying clothing that is good quality and affordable). People have told me that they appreciate the fact that I am still focusing on the everyday person on a budget. I want people to know that you don’t have to spend tons of money on building your wardrobe, and you don’t have to spend tons of money on individual items for your wardrobe. I can show you how to find your style and purchase items that are affordable, good quality, and can be worn multiple ways. If you book me, you will learn how to get maximum wear out of the items you currently own and any new items added.
It has not been a very smooth road, but nothing is if it is something you genuinely want. At first, it was a struggle to try and work with different brands or get clients because no one knew who I was. It was difficult trying to get on the guestlist for events in the city that could have helped me promote myself. It’s been a journey trying to build a following on my social media. But the biggest struggle of all is trying to balance my full-time job along with what I want to be my full-time job. Trying to find the time to create content constantly and style people when I’m already tired from working has been the most significant adjustment.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If I had a friend visiting Atlanta for a week, we would definitely be doing a lot of food and drink outings. We would probably head over to Saint + Council for dinner and drinks, then head to Jojo’s Beloved for after dinner drinks (I love a good cocktail). We would go hang out at Ponce City Market to play games, spend a Friday night at the High Museum to see art, listen to music while having good drinks. Then we would probably just chill at home because honestly, I’m a major homebody and so are my friends.
The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would say my husband deserves the biggest shoutout. He is the one who really encouraged me to start my business. He knew that in this day and age, social media is a major component to your success. He spent countless hours steaming clothes for me, going out and taking my photos and videos, telling people about my styling business. He’s been my number 1 supporter and I truly wouldn’t be here now if it wasn’t for him.
Website: https://www.cb2styles.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cb2styles?igsh=d2IzcGdmOGdkOG8x
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/cb2styles
Other: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@cb2styles?_t=8mAE2Hdl3W6&_r=1
Image Credits
My husband and I took all these photos and own the rights to all of them.