This story is about…
Female Entrepreneur: Ebony Robinson
Location: USA
Company: Nina Fleurina
She started her business because: “I grew up with parents that were entrepreneurs. My dad a computer programmer and my mother a creative artists,”
Age range: 30s
Tell us about your business…
I started Nina Fleurina in 2011 as a vintage inspired boutique for young women with an eclectic array of fashion apparel and intimates, candles, soaps, perfumes and handmade accessories. It’s a little anthro mixed with Parisian flair. It’s filled with whimsy, and fresh fragrances, eloquent music and pink hues. It’s home away from home, a place I like to call a little piece of heaven.
What is a day in the life of you like?
I wish I could say my day starts at 7am, but quite realistically it starts at 9ish with helping my husband with his business and ending with making fresh product, soaps and candles to restock for the next day. Most days are spent meeting customers at the store, meeting photographers for styling or meeting clients for their weddings. I live a very full life and most of the time it ends at 2am tweeting, posting or blogging.
What have been your biggest challenges so far with running your business?
Location, Location, Location. It’s a point about opening a brick and mortar business that I totally underestimated. I also struggled with insecurity and knowing that what I had people really loved. It took me quite awhile to realize my full creative potential.
How did you overcome these challenges?
I just never gave up. I have an excellent support system with my husband and my mom. I recently moved to another location and work diligently on social networking where I work on promoting my business. I focus on positive feedback, inspiration and expanding my creativity which has strengthened my confidence.
What have you found to be the most effective way to get new clients?
Constantly reaching out to my customers via social media in order to get word of mouth referrals I also do industry events and keep up with fresh ideas constantly re-inventing myself.
What advice would you give to other business owners?
Stay authentic, even in a world that can be visually, technically and intellectually overstimulating. Love what you do, and if you don’t know what your “do” is try things until you figure it out. Launch fearless, but be faithful.
How do you keep motivated through difficult times?
Prayer, family, and trusting my purpose. I love inspiring women to to great things, overcoming obstacles and never giving up. Is it easy? No but it’s the best thing I’ve ever done.
What’s your favourite quote?
“Nothing is impossible, the word itself says ‘I’m possible’!”
{Audrey Hepburn}
Who inspires you?
Most of the time I’m inspired by my environment, my family, old movies, Audrey Hepburn, grace, old things, french music flea market finds, fashion and art.
Do you have a business philosophy?
The only way a business can work is if you constantly work your business and if it’s worth it success is destined to happen.
Get in touch…
Twitter Name: twitter.com/#!/ninafleurina
Facebook Fanpage: www.facebook.com/ebony.robinson1
