Today we’d like to introduce you to Tierra Smith.
Hi Tierra, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
The name of my business is Layla Bugz Boutique (Layla Bugz). Layla Bugz is named after my daughter, Layla. I did not want to be away from my new baby so being a work from home mom was perfect. It was only fitting to name the business after my little Layla Bug.
I have been in business for two years. I started out making custom t-shirts with most of my orders coming from people seeing my posts on social media. Since then, I have learned to make jewelry, hairbows, resin art, home decor signs and so much more. I am self-taught in all crafts that I create. I am currently teaching myself how to do embroidery and soon I will teach myself how to sew.
In order to get my brand noticed, I attend vendor events, I post on social media and I am a walking billboard. I am either wearing a t-shirt I designed or drinking from a custom tumbler I made. My family and friends proudly brag on their custom items and they refer their friends to shop with us.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
This journey is far from over and it has not been easy. When you own a business, you have to do a lot of research and studying. I try to educate and improve myself daily. It could be learning a new craft, taking trainings, watching webinars or reading.
The biggest struggle of all has been knowing my worth and charging appropriately. It has taken some time to figure it out but I feel that I am getting the hang of it.
As you know, we’re big fans of Layla Bugz Boutique. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
Layla Bugz is an online store offering custom apparel and gifts. We also offer uniforms, product labels and business cards for small business owners. In addition, we create banners, invitations and flyers. We have partnered with a party planner and provide custom items for parties such as chip bags, candy wrappers and goodie bags.
Our Etsy shop. Layla Bugz Boutique is currently being revamped to offer inspirational children’s apparel. We wanted to offer an encouraging word for youth in hopes to brighten their day or maybe someone else’s. Our youth deal with things such as false realities of social media, bullying and just trying to fit in. As a mother, I figured it would be one step towards making a difference.
The website is LaylaBugz.com. Additional items are being added as we continue to grow and build our skillset.
I am so proud of how much I have grown in my creativity over the last couple of years. Each time I am met with something new, I put my all into it.
What do you like and dislike about the city?
I was born and raised in Dallas. There are so many things I like about Dallas but if I had to name one it would be the arts district. I must admit my least favorite thing about our city is the traffic.
Contact Info:
- Email: tierra@laylabugz.com
- Website: www.laylabugz.com
- Instagram: _laylabugzboutique
- Facebook: LaylaBugzBoutique
- Other: LaylaBugzBoutique.etsy.com
