We had the good fortune of connecting with La’Vonne-Alexis and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi La’Vonne-Alexis, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
My thought process behind starting my own companies, was me knowing that I wanted to make an impact within an industry in my own country simply doing what I loved. I always knew I wanted to be an entrepreneur so it was a matter of having a career where I want to get up and do it every single day, and what girl doesn’t love to dress up? I was also in college at the time of starting my businesses, because keeping my mind busy on things other than school was a must for me.

What should our readers know about your business?

I’ve always been somewhat of a fashion connoisseur in my own right which began my fascination with the fashion industry very early on in life. I believe what I have to offer within my country, The Bahamas, is just a different point of view on how you’re able to start a business doing something as fun and creative as getting dressed up.

Growing up in the Bahamas, I wasn’t familiar with any working wardrobe stylists in the country and I’ve never had the advantage of going into a retail store that followed attainable and affordable global fashion trends that peaked myself or my peers interest. So, I’m most excited about being the person who created this market within The Bahamas, especially where you’re able to now be paid for your services by big brands hiring you. I simply got to that point with hard work, consistency and dedication.

Moving to Miami, FL in 2006 to study Fashion Design & Merchandising, I gained a lot of experience as a stylist, buyer and much more which led me to starting my online boutique and style company in 2006. Being in business this long has had a warehouse full of challenges and isn’t easy in the least bit, but the very same thing thing that made me start, kept me going. I simply love what I do.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is to take your time with everything. Do not rush the process where you’ll end up having to start over time and time again. Sit with your idea, let it marinate and then get to planning thoroughly so you can have the launch you know your passion deserves; also the early bird always gets the worm. Lol

I started my companies with a lot in mind, but mostly, I wanted to be a game changer and a problem solver within an arena that I felt a part of. I want to bring creative energy to my country, from within my brands and I feel I’ve done that; and it’s all in love, hence my tag line, Style, with love.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?

Now, if we are talking about Miami, where I actually lived for 10 years before moving back home, Wynwood district for sure. You can shop, eat and have a good time there. They have food truck parks, different art events, live music on the streets etc. it always seems that there is something constantly happening. We would eat up the street at The Forge, where I love the banana pudding lol. There is so much to see and do in Miami.

If they are visiting the Bahamas, first things first of course is trying a tropical conch salad from Dino’s. You can spend a lot of beach and pool days at the hotels lounging off and relaxing. Visiting Bon Vivants or Yellowbell at the Island House for drinks is necessary, where you can then stop at Tern Gallery to see local artwork. Boating, dancing at night, a work day with me perhaps (which is the most fun). Island hopping is a must. Its standard to take folks visiting to Arawak Cay so they can get a taste of the Bahamas all in one sitting. But overall the trip will consist of a lot of eating, drinking, beach adventure and fun.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I’d like to dedicate this Shoutout interview to my mom, who has been my foundation for everything in life. And to my customers, thank you for your support and belief in my brand. Without them, this dream wouldn’t be fully realized.

Website: www.theclosetandco.com

Instagram: @lavonnealexis. @theclosetandco @thecc_style

Linkedin: LaVonne Ferguson

Twitter: Theclosetandco

Facebook: @theclosetandco.bs

Nominate Someone: ShoutoutMiami is built on recommendations and shoutouts from the community; it’s how we uncover hidden gems, so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.