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

Hi Shelby, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lesson my business/ career has taught me is JUST DO IT, consistently and ask for help where needed! I say this meaning, it doesn’t matter who else is doing the same thing, how long it’s taking you, and how perfect or not so perfect things may be, as long as your DOING ( taking risks, launching that business, making that content, reaching out to that person that will elevate or educate you, etc), then God will assist you in you will find your way. It’s very easy to get stuck and say, I will do it later and I am confused so I don’t want to do it, you have to get past that mindset and just try. Also, it is okay to reach out to experts in fields your not that strong in yet to help you bring your vision together, so for instance hire a photographer to capture that important content or hire a graphic designer. There is nothing you can’t do.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
The definition of Bona Fide is to be authentic and genuine, and it also has a latin origin, being defined as “Good Faith”. I am very spiritual and believe I would not be where I am, be who I am, or surrounded by certain people without God, and because of the trials of my life, I stand firm on the belief that being yourself authentically is an important form of self love and benefits the overall growth process, which is why my businesses sole purpose is to allow people to express themselves through fashion because when you have an amazing outfit on it makes you feel confident and bold. I got where I am today from God and consistency, it was not easy at all, starting and maintaining your own business takes a lot of research, and focus even when you do not want to. I’ve learned that even if your industry is saturated, it does not mean you lack anything, in fact you can learn from those in your field and you and your business provide uniqueness only you can provide. Finally, I want the world to know that I worked really hard to get to this point and went through nights of struggling and doubt and fear, but my business, my brand, and even I, myself, took the time and effort to grow and to learn from my mistakes and pain and will continue on this journey, you can too, so don’t stay still, BEGIN ANYWHERE.

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.
I love this question! If my best friend was visiting the area, I would take them to brunch to get mimosas and breakfast. One of my favorite brunch spots is MadChef in Elicott City! It’s definitely a vibe. Then for some day time activities during the week, I would either go to DC to sight see, go to the African American Museum, I would go to Tyson’s Corner Center, a mall, to go shopping, Auto Bahn for go-karting and axe throwing, and Main Event, a food/ arcade venue. The harbor is also very beautiful especially in the summer time, so I would take them to have dinner at a water front restaurant, later in the evening. For hanging out, I would love to have a sip & paint, wine and movies type of night and if we chose to go out I would probably go to Fed Hill, and after going out, get some cookies from Insomnia before we go home.

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 like to thank my friends and family, and also my fiancée who consistently supported me throughout the continuous process, and set an example that showed me I can achieve my goals and dreams, no matter how big they may seem and also, it is okay to make mistakes, just learn from them and grow. Additionally, “The Audacity To Be Queen” by Gina DeVee really inspired me to begin my boutique and future business plans!

Image Credits
@jpwphoto @makeupbyjayastudio @sumemerrrrrslays

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