From Medical Doctor to CEO of BoujeeFit Shapewear, how this entrepreneur is on the verge of revolutionizing the shapewear industry with innovative shapewear that embraces and represents the diversity among women.
As a woman-led startup, Venecia Chisholm understands the importance of feeling confident and the desire for diversity, So Venecia created BoujeeFit Shapewear to be the most inclusive, supportive, and effective shapewear that every woman can rely on.
Every woman’s undergarments make up the foundation of their entire outfit, so it only makes sense that their shapewear expresses a high level of comfort and individuality to the woman wearing it.
“We believe all women are unique, so why wouldn’t you want your shapewear to reflect that”
Venecia created this company for women such as herself that wanted the extra support and security of great shapewear. ‘’As a black woman, it’s extremely important for me to allow other women to see themselves in my brand and to create undergarments that feel like it was made for them.’’
What motivated you to start a company in the first place?
It was during my final years at university and I was going through a ton of undergarments to wear under my outfits. I wasn’t able to find comfortable shapewear that matched my skin tone. I kept on seeing the term ‘nude’ to describe a singular shade, so I thought I can’t be the only one experiencing this issue and the idea just started from there.
What makes Boujee Fit Shapewear different from other shapewear brands?
We are a company that has always centered our values on listening to our consumers and creating products based on the needs of ordinary women who feel like their issues have been ignored. So many women have similar issues regarding shapewear whether it’s the limited size ranges, the lack of ‘nude’ tones, or the lack of diversity of the models who are usually modeling for shapewear companies. Throughout all aspects of the company, we strive for inclusivity and diversity. It’s paramount that consumers are able to see themselves in my brand. Our main formula is and always will be listening to the consumer and creating products based on the needs and issues of ordinary women, whose opinions are not heard by large, major companies.
What inspires you to create new products?
We are passionate about building women’s confidence and our product really does that, but among the blue skies, lies dark clouds too. There are times when we are faced with challenges. Often in business, you don’t know where you are going or how you’ll get there but that’s when the inspiration steps in. Knowing how far and how hard I have pushed to be where I am and not to mention the women who say things like, “Hey, I’m 5’5, 195lbs and it seems like I can’t find a shaper that works well with my body type, can you assist?” Instantly, I am motivated to go back to the drawing board to think of a ‘killer’ design for potentially new shapewear. People inspire me, women with issues, knowing there is a possibility that I could help inspire me.
Have you always wanted to be the CEO of a company?
Growing up I never thought I would be running my own company. When I was younger, I had a passion for the sciences; that was my focus. The goal was to graduate from high school, then go to university and get a great job preferably working with the government. I would have never imagined myself in the position I am in now. My passion for entrepreneurship came out of nowhere, but I’m the happiest I have ever been working for myself and being my own boss.
Advice for other entrepreneurs who want to get started on or just starting out?
Firstly, I would say surrounding yourself with a great support system and positive energy. For me, I had an amazing support system that would encourage me throughout my journey. Truth is, failure is inevitable, this is an unpredictable road and you are going to experience your fair share of failure and disappointment, so having someone that believes in you even when you don’t believe in yourself is imperative to success. Secondly, consistency is very important. Keep going even if you feel like no one is interested in what you have to offer. Success is always on the ‘other side’ of consistency, so keep pushing.
Where do you see BoujeeFit Shapewear moving towards the future?
I see the company making a lasting impression in the undergarment industry. We have a lot of major plans on revamping the industry and expanding our product ranges, so we definitely have a long road ahead but it’s something I look forward to.
How do you stay motivated?
I try to look at the glass half full instead of half empty. Truth is in entrepreneurship there are so many curveballs and hurdles to cross but in order to get through it, you truly have to love what you do and be consistent.
Where do you get your inspiration daily?
My inspiration comes from the people around me particularly the women in my life. Growing up in Jamaica I was constantly surrounded by strong women who seemed to make the possible out of the impossible and do so without complaining. I took a lot of inspiration from those same women which in return inspired me to start my business as well.
What has been the most rewarding?
Hands down the feedback from consumers that love the product and the message behind our brand. It’s an amazing feeling having women email me saying that they are beyond happy to see shapewear in their nude tones, or women that look like them modeling the items. For me, that has been the biggest reward.
Why have you turned to crowdfunding?
BoujeeFit Shapewear is a company created by a frustrated consumer that decided to try and create an amazing undergarment, that I along with other associates felt was greatly lacking in current shapewear on the market.
Although we have made many fantastic strides and successes as a company, we are still not at the capacity to produce a large production of shapewear to cater to our diverse customer base, This campaign will provide the much-needed capital to fund our first production line on our revolutionary product and to get the ball rolling in producing further innovative products.
See more of the brand on https://boujeefitshapewear.com
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