Turjemia, known online as Ms. Pretty Kurvz launched Pretty Kurves Boutique as an urban and fresh option in order to fill a void for stylish apparel for plus-sized women after encountering endless outdated shopping choices. Let’s meet her…
What was the catalyst or series of events that lead to you creating your online boutique?
I love shopping and I discovered there were not many cute pieces for the Plus Sizes. I used to struggle at finding nice and affordable outfits at certain stores. I wanted to keep my style as urban and fresh, however, I began to notice that most stores had outdated looks for the plus sizes. I felt there was a need to start a fashion business with nice clothes for Plus Sizes.
Tell us where you grew up and a little about your childhood experience overall.
I grew up in Arkansas where I was born and raised for the majority of my life. My childhood experience was extremely hard and I grew up as an adopted child although I knew who my biological mother was. I am a survivor of several forms of abuse and have suffered from PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) for several years now.
When you graduated from high school what did you want to be or what plans if any did you have for your future? Did you achieve them and if not, what rerouted your journey?
When I graduated from high school, I wasn’t sure of what I wanted to do. Although, I had several things in mind. I worked a few jobs and over time, I decided to get into entrepreneurship. I wanted to work at my own pace as I heavily set my focus on building my future in business.
Where are you based now and how did you make your way there?
I had made a decision to relocate to Atlanta, Georgia in the year 2017. During that time, it was the best move to make because I was ready for a change.
Your boutique offers curated selections of various brands of clothing for women with curves. Do you have any goals to open a brick-and-mortar location or to even design your own brand of clothing? What would your brand look like- and what would you bring that you don’t see now- compared to what is currently available for plus-sized /curvy women?
Pretty Kurz Boutique offers trendy and stylish fashions for Plus Sizes. However, due to the pandemic, there are not any plans to open a brick-and-mortar location anytime soon. With an online marketing strategy, it preserves our safety. It is also a safer approach for our customers as well. Our designs are uniquely designed to fulfill the fashion needs of the consumer.
We’re looking to bring diva fierceness into the business. Our customers are extremely pleased to become what we like to call, “Pretty Divas,” after they’ve purchased any of our products. The goal is to make everyone feel happy to dress up no matter what size they are.
Confidence is really a mindset even with nothing on. How does your platform reach out and touch the consumer or just women, in general, to instill, build and nurture that inner confidence as well?
My platform has reached thousands of women. The amount of support that I have received is impeccable. There are plenty of women who have reached out to express they are encouraged by my confidence in being a Plus Sized Woman. I am also a blogger and a dancer. My reason for being carefree regardless of my size is because I, myself, have also experienced being “put down” and “laughed at” because of my size and weight. Due to my bravery and confidence, I have been able to empower plenty of women on my platform.
For those wanting to get started, how did you learn to not only create your business but maintain it? How do you stay informed on the latest fashion news or retail techniques?
I learned about fashion by researching online and I also reached out to business coaches who also specialize in giving advice in the industry. I am always reading the latest fashion news online. I try to keep myself up to date with the latest trending topics. It’s something that you’d absolutely have to feel passion for because fashion is always changing every day. You’d also have to be innovative with creating content that will easily draw the attention of the consumer.
What is the biggest hurdle you had to overcome as a business owner? As a woman in general?
As with anyone who owns or runs their own business, I’m sure they’ll agree with me when I say it can be pretty stressful at times. There are deadlines to meet and sometimes the inventory arrives late and of course, there’s shipping. It’s a long list of things that could possibly go left when it comes to shipping delays, especially during a pandemic. As a woman, we are looked at as superwomen. We have to juggle time between our personal lives as well as running a business. It takes passion and organization to accomplish a full workday.
What does a typical day consist of for you as CEO/founder?
My day starts with answering emails, returning phone calls, and attending meetings. Then, there’s also the fulfillment of orders and making sure the products are properly shipped in a timely manner.
Do you have a blog/podcast, YouTube and if so, how do you use these platforms to elevate, educate and encourage your brand and consumers?
Yes, I have an upcoming blog segment with an online magazine. I have also written articles for several publications. Some of the topics that I have written about were fashion, lifestyle, relationship advice, and celebrities. With each topic, there is content for everyone who is looking for the latest celebrity talk, fashions, or the most current recipes for 30-minute dinners. My YouTube channel is currently being updated and will be launched later this year.
Besides fashion what other interests do you have business-wise?
I also have a publishing company called, “Kurvz Ink Publications.” I am looking to get into the literary business to assist and become a learning coach for others who are hoping to become future writers and/or authors.
And not including business, tell me who you are at your core and what personal goals you have for yourself in the future?
As a survivor of abuse, I am a fighter. Every day it is a job to be happy. I’m a spiritual person and I’m looking to become more helpful in assisting others to come to know Jehovah God.
Tell us about life outside of work and any hobbies or activities you enjoy.
I enjoy dancing, nature walks, listening to music, and decorating my home. I love to sip a glass of wine and treat myself to a warm bath after a long day.
Tell our readers how they can reach out, support, or find out more about your endeavors.
Shop at my online fashion boutique: www.prettykurvzboutique.net Follow me on all social media platforms: @prettykurvz. My business pages are www.facebook.com/prettykurvzboutique and @prettykurvzboutique on Instagram.
Lastly, what would you say to those designers with the “old” mindset that plus-sized or curvy fashion can’t be stylish?
There’s actually a huge market for Plus Sizes and fashion designers should consider the fashion needs of the consumer. Most clothing lines are made of petite sizes that are oversaturated. However, there’s plenty of money for fashion designers who are interested in giving the big girls a chance. They should not think “within a box” however, they should take advantage of the Plus Size market. It’s a great opportunity to obtain monetary success as a fashion designer.
