I recently had the joy to interview an inspirational fashion business figure in my life. Milwaukee native Sheena Marie is not new to our KISS site, as we have featured her before in her other venture “Fashion Revolution”. Like any mogul minded person she didn’t just stop there. Her latest venture took her into fashion retail, and photography. Check out this informative interview of how she is aiding in the Boutique Revolution in Milwaukee.
1. Many people know you from your yearly event “The Fashion Revolution”, how hard was it to transition from fashion show creator to retail store owner and manager?
The transition from just producing one annual event to initiating an actual flapship retail store was and still is a balancing act. It takes me anywhere from 6-9 months to plan out the production so with added tasks of operating a business requires me to be “Fashion Revolution” 24/7. What’s good is that there is now a place-a brick and mortar for people to visit to learn more about the production and purchase independent designer lines that they may have liked when they come to the show. I believe that the store makes full circle of economic support of a progressing fashion market in Milwaukee. We breed new talent, we expose new talent, we market and sell new, exclusive talent for consumers, and contribute to job opportunities and internships within the market. We make it possible for designers and artists to operate at a capacity to make residual income.
2. Do you feel Milwaukee can be the center of fashion in the Midwest?
To be honest, and I hate to sound like a party pooper—but I don’t think at this time Milwaukee has the stamina to become a prominent center for fashion. It takes more than just fashion shows and boutiques to keep the scene in constant movement. Milwaukee as a city—and speaking in terms of where the power lies—the government would need to see the importance of the industy and support it with monetary opportunities for start-up initiatives, counsel and support for creatives, and a separate marketing agenda to get people talking about fashion as they do our yearly summer festivals. Milwaukee would have to somewhat follow the leg work of Chicago, whereas the mayor appointing a board of folks to support the industry thoroughly—similar to the Chicago Fashion Resource.
3. As a fashionista and store owner, how do you determine what lines you carry?
Yes! I work with so many designers and more importantly, I silently observe our designers and I’m more moved with designers who are progressive and consistenly changing. That is important. Designers who keep the quality—yet stay current by changing the direction or focus of their lines by either adding elements or tweeking specifics within the line. This is appealing to consumers—buyers want to stay fresh and updated. I have recently begun to heavily scout out-of-state independents because I think it’s important to add variety and introduce new things to Milwaukee. Just recently Boutique Revolution brought in a great line of stenciled and color block dresses designed by Chicago duo, Derric Clemons and Luz Castillo. Clevery made and could be worn as a dress or layered top with leggings or denim. Price range $85-$120.
4. How has Boutique Revolution survived in a recession?
It’s been really rough for the retail market recently—and even worse for small businesses like Boutique Revolution. I have started to really focus on where we market and buy advertisements to maximize our marketing dollars. Survival is our only option. We are strengthening our customer service to retain our current client base.
5. Your latest jaw dropping advertising campaign involves you behind the camera, what inspired this campaign and your venture as photographer?
Thank you for the compliment! I have always enjoyed being creative. And I find myself expressing myself in many mediums. A few years ago I purchased a professional camera from a photographer that I worked with for many years as his Creative Director. From that experience it allowed me to be more confident with using the camera and my style of photography. I enjoy great compositions and crazy contrast in the subjects I capture. More recently I polished up on my photo editing and I am enjoying all the great possibilities PhotoShop has to offer. Besides taking the image correctly the first time—I like to add fun elements from time to time. So, to make a long story short—to cut costs of hiring a photographer-I took on the role of photographing our seasonal lookbooks and advertising campaigns in addition to graphics.
6. You now have two brands “Fashion Revolution” and “Boutique Revolution” can we expect a third?? Give us a hint I know one is brewing.
Oh gosh! I think these two businesses will keep me busy for a very long time, God willing! I am actually considering helping my daughter to start a catering business. She is nine years old and loves to cook—and cook well. She makes me breakfast from time to time, and it’s no milk and cereal. So-maybe the upcoming summer—we may try some innovative ways to get her going! I tell her she is going to be a famous chef-traveling the world feeding people all over the globe good food!
Location: 5209 West North Avenue
Milwaukee, WI 53208 - Store Number: 414.871.0624
Facebook Page: Boutique Revolution
Owner: Sheena Marie
