Kenn Brown

DeKesha Williams
President
Sassy Shoe Gallery

1 | Why did you start your business?
Years ago I graduated from Old Dominion University with a Bachelor’s in Fashion and always had the vision of attending an Apparel/Footwear show. After managing stores and people for 14 years, I decided to step out on faith and do what any woman would do for the rest of her life…BUY shoes.

2 | What business challenges have you had to overcome?
The first hurdle as a new business was financing for start up inventory. My vision was to carry over 30 styles as a new online boutique which is equivalent to $15,000 not including the entire marketing package. After applying at your large banks and some smaller banks, one non-traditional financial company believed in my dream and gave more than enough start up financing for my vision.

3 | Any recommendations for an aspiring entrepreneurs?
As a new entrepreneur, I would definitely advise you to have a plan and work your plan. Also be knowledgeable of both your product/service and the operational aspects of your business. As a business owner, you have to be able to find that happy medium.

4 | What are your goals – personal or business – over the next 5 years?
With the increase of Buzz Club membership, I visualize our company growth to more than 5 employees over the next year and moving outside of a home business. We expect to expand the “Sassy” brand from shoes to other endeavors that would impact our local community and nationally.

5 | How do you see COA impacting the entrepreneurial industry?
I feel that COA can give aspiring business owners not only hope but information that could impact some future decisions that they may make. COA can be the educational piece for current business owners and give different perspectives for current operational decisions. It can also create business relationships in our local community.

6 | In your opinion, how important is community involvement for business owners?
In the current state of our economy, it is that much more important for business owners to be highly active in the community. Whether it is participating in local training programs that teach leadership and financial management. Business owners should take on more mentor roles in our schools to give the children positive expectations for what is to come.

7 | How significant was education and networking to your success?
For the retail and sales industry, I think my years of experience was necessary in order to learn the sales aspect of my business. However, my MBA has given me insight not only on how to run the daily aspects of the business but to look at the long-term growth of my company. Education allows me to see the big picture of not just one business but a conglomerate of “Sassy” projects.

8 | Share your social media/web links.

Website
Facebook
Twitter