Today we’d like to introduce you to Ashley Ollison.
Ashley, please share your story with us. How did you get to where you are today?
Since I can remember, I’ve always had a passion for fashion. My mom often teased me that when I was a little girl I wouldn’t be playing with dolls, but she would catch me in my closet organizing my clothes! So, it was no surprise when I made the decision to enroll in fashion school. I initially thought I wanted to be a fashion buyer.
However, once I gained more insight on the job I realized I wanted more control, more purchasing power, and more creative control. This desire for that “MORE” is what birthed Skii Boutique! I wanted to create a boutique that was my vision of the world of fashion that the “sky” separates …. so the double “ii” in SKii symbolize my two eyes! Those two eyes carry my personalized vision, unique eye for fashion, and my double dose of passion. My goal has always been to create a super savvy and timeless boutique for ladies who are on trend but not necessarily ‘trendy’. I wanted to cater to ladies who like statement pieces that they can mix and match and add to the rhythm of their wardrobe! This journey hasn’t always been an easy one.
When I moved back from Houston in 2011, I knew I wanted to follow my dreams. But I needed to mature, I needed to fail, I needed to grow. God truly evolved me as a person while evolving Skii at the same time. And although my passion and vision never changed, the person I was in 2011 has grown in seven years to the person I was when I launched in 2018. Biblically, 7 is the number of completion. It is no coincidence that seven years later, God said-“YES, it’s time!” I’m no different from anyone else, I pray, I work hard, and I always trust God to help me execute my plans. My advice to someone with a dream would be to never stop believing in yourself, FAITH it till you make it, and don’t compare yourself, plans and goals to anyone else – truly embrace your journey!
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
My journey hasn’t always been an easy one. When I moved back to Dallas from Houston in 2011, I knew it was time for me to start really focusing on what I wanted my future to look like. I had to do a lot of digging deep to find out what my passion was and how I was going to turn it into a career. When I enrolled in fashion school, I thought I wanted to do one thing and after learning more aspects of fashion, I shifted my goals. That in itself was hard. I was no where near ready when SKii was a dream. I struggled not only financially but mentally and emotionally. Like most 20 somethings, I wanted it right when I dreamed of it. But GOD! He helped me and matured not only my finances but me as a woman. I went from fashion school, where SKii was birthed to working retail, to leasing, and now to corporate America. The experiences and people I have met along this seven years journey has made the struggles and wait worthwhile.
Alright – so let’s talk business. Tell us about SKii Boutique – what should we know?
SKii, pronounced sky, Boutique is a stylish, posh, and elegant representation of the World of Fashion seen from my eyes, hence the double “ii.” My goal is to create an online boutique that houses timeless on trend apparel for the bold and confident woman who isn’t afraid to live out loud with her wardrobe while remaining a classic. SKii Boutique is not just a retail e-commerce store but a lifestyle brand that provides statement pieces for any and every occasion in a woman’s life. No matter the occasion, place or event…. SKii has you covered!
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My drive and optimism! I don’t mind doing the work. I pride myself on getting things done and am open to change and making tough decisions as needed. I understand in order to be successful its not only passion and drive but knowing when it’s your time and staying positive while you wait. And I literally know with success (big or small) there will be failures and frustrations, so you have to remain hopeful and positive in every situation!
Contact Info:
- Website: SKiiBoutique.com
- Phone: 2145526413
- Email: skiiboutique@yahoo.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skiiboutique
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SKii-Boutique-LLC
Image Credit:
Jasmine Ryland and Stephon Latham
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