Meet Khemra Montague: CEO & Creator of HFSE

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

Hi Khemra, how do you think about risk?
I think that risk takes faith and a certain level of comfortability. It is the willingness and audacity to take a chance on something or someone. I took a big risk during the pandemic when I put some of my savings into buying machinery to create and design clothing. It quickly transitioned from a risk to my best investment. Taking risks has played a pivotal role in both my career and personal life. It has developed a stronger trust within myself and my instincts. I’m still learning and appreciating the blessings of risk and reward.

Can you give our readers an introduction to your business? Maybe you can share a bit about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
My business is called “Her First Solo Exhibit”. We are a women’s loungewear brand that strives to enhance confidence and comfort through clothing that is complementary to the contemporary woman. What sets HFSE apart from competitors is the incorporation of customer-fitting experiences to refine our loungewear design for a well tailored fit. As CEO & Creator, I create all pieces down to the cut, fit and design of a clothing item.

I am most proud of the risk that I took to bring my creations to life and am so excited to introduce my new collection, Fresh Start coming soon. Along the way, I’ve learned that delegating and taking breaks are very essential for a healthy mind and business and one of my biggest lessons learned so far. I want people to know that sometimes you have to put your head down and build your skills until it’s your time. I started off doing fashion sketches as a pastime, to juggling multiple internships, then working backstage and coordinating fashion shows; and now I own a business where my sketches are tangible clothing pieces. I had been waiting on someone else to give me a chance that I could’ve already been giving to myself. HFSE is built on the foundation of creating something that you can call your own and being proud and confident enough to display it to the world. It’s my pleasure to create and find solutions for women’s bodies through the art of designing clothes.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
I would take them to my top go-to places like Milk & Honey for sure. There is always a long wait but that entire menu is worth ordering. We’d spend some time at Triton Yards where they have a small park with games and drinks plus some of the best food truck cuisine!! Due to the pandemic, it’s definitely not the same visiting and eating out, but you would not be disappointed with going to Southern Kitchen and Grill. It’s a black-owned, takeout-only food spot with all the southern classics.

That Mama’s Mix is a must!! You cannot come to Atlanta and not do an Elevated Picnics experience. It’s definitely a vibe so if you don’t book, you’d be missing out for sure. I would close out my friend’s trip at AmericasMart Atlanta. Atlanta’s Market is open to all buyers and a gem for people in the fashion industry. Atlanta is just one of those cities that has so much to offer that it’s so hard to pick from.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
There are a multitude of experiences and people that deserve recognition for helping me get to where I am right now! My faith, family and consulting team being my main support system. They’ve kept me inspired and never alone on my business journey thus far. The support has been in abundance. I love all of you and every experience in front and behind the camera. I’m thankful and ready for what’s to come!