Meet Erica Gray | Boutique Owner, Business Consultant, Event Curator

We had the good fortune of connecting with Erica Gray and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Erica, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
I knew one day that I would have a business of my own and retire from my 9 to 5. I wasn’t sure what that business was going to be when I first thought of it. I have always had a love of fashion that stemmed from my mother. She and my Grandmother were entrepreneurs in their own right. I remember when I was a little girl they sold crafts and reused clothing at the local flea market. My passion was drawn to womens clothing and accessories so I went with it. Being a business owner is something I thought I would be doing closer to retirement age. I instead researched my new business and quit my social services job at the time. I have learned many lessons along the way, but never regretted becoming an entrepreneur.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
When I began my boutique, I foolishly wanted to sell to everyone. I had to learn to find my customers and my niche. I now focus on the women with curves and empowering them to look their best. I am all about encouragement and empowerment, and I think that’s what attracts my audience. Starting a business definitely wasn’t easy, but you can’t do it scared. You have to be prepared to put yourself out there, to be seen and heard. Even after all of the research I did, I still wasn’t ready for it all. I continued learning, growing, implementing my plans, and checking off goals. I’ve been able to stretch the boutique business into different avenues, such as consulting other boutique owners, and creating business events where entrepreneurs can learn more about the business and how to improve their own. I want to leave my mark on the world and leave a legacy for my children.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well that definitely depends on the day! We have so many different things to offer, but you usually have to find them. On Saturday, one of the first places we would go would be the Civil Rights Museum, and some of the Art Museums as well. I would love for them to see different aspects of our culture, and how Mississippi contributes to the Art scene. I always stop by The Outlets of Pearl for some shopping. While there I have to get some Doc’s Popcorn. If I’m not shopping there I like to go to Dogwood Festival in Flowood. If it’s the first of the month I may visit the JxnFlea in Fondren. For some good soul food I would go to Bully’s. If I want the Caribbean flair I’m going to Godfrey’s. And for the best pizza hands down I’m going to The Pizza Shack. I would end the night with a good drink from The Bulldog or Last Call. But Sunday, we’re definitely hitting up Iron Horse Grill for the Jazz Brunch.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely have to shout out to my sons. They are my motivation and they keep me going. They are always asking about my business and helping me during events. They love to see their Mom being a Boss. I feel like I can encourage at least one of them to be their own boss one day. I also have to shout out to my customers, fellow entrepreneurs, and supporters. I have met thousands of people while being an entrepreneur, and many of them tell me how I inspired them to start their own business, or how proud they are of me. I really love to meet customers who say they’ve been following me on social media and are happy to finally meet me in person. That really makes my day so I have to shout all of them out. Without my customers and supporters there would be no Curvy Chic!

Website: www.curvychicllc.com

Instagram: @curvychicllc

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericagray106

Facebook: Curvy Chic Boutique

Youtube: @purposedrivenconsulting

Image Credits
Nico Hopkins – The Perfect Shot Bass Dre- Bass Photography