Meet Tempest Burns | Clothing Boutique Owner
We had the good fortune of connecting with Tempest Burns and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Tempest, we’d love to hear about how you approach risk and risk-taking
Taking risks, in my opinion, is the key to success. It all boils down to having faith in yourself and the desire to give it your all. It can be frightening, to be honest. But for me, I was more scared of the low position I was in. Starting my clothing boutique was definitely a big risk. I was at a good career job for two and a half years. This same job let me go, over the phone, while I was at the viewing of my mother’s body. The way they fired me with no hesitation, I learned then working for someone else you’re just a number in their dreams. The next day, I buried my mother. I was at such a low point, it didn’t really hit me till after the funeral. I realized I had nothing to my name. Earlier that month is when I came up with the idea to start a clothing line. I was thinking okay I’m gone keep this job and just put my checks towards this business slowly. Boy was I wrong! I had to go full out, 100% cause now this idea was all I had. I did my research, I registered my business, made my own website, got inventory, everything! I unlocked so many skills I didn’t even know I had, all because I didn’t have the funds to pay someone else to do it. If you do nothing today, you’re 100% guaranteed to be in this same position tomorrow. If you take a risk and act on it today, it’s a 50% chance tomorrow will be different.
What should our readers know about your business?
My clothing boutique name is, Temptress Couture. We have women and men clothing. But, currently our main focus is women clothing that I purchase from vendors in California. I only purchase clothes from California because they provide top quality clothing and shipping is very fast. I tested out China vendors in the beginning, but was not pleased with the quality. When I begin to look for inventory initially, I purchased a vendors list. It was a complete waist and not helpful. I had to do my own research on vendors. But one day I got so frustrated with looking online, I asked my boyfriend could we just go to California. He said yes! Taking that trip to California open my eyes to so much. I was able to feel the actual quality of their fabric. I spoke with the vendors and got their direct contact information, It made purchasing inventory moving forward so much easier for me. No business is ever easy. Taking that trip cost me more then I made in profit. But you will learn in having a business it’s not going to be about profit in the beginning. It’s about the experience, building a track record for your brand. I gained way more exposure by taking that trip. I also found my vendors that I needed to expand my business. So it all was an investment in myself and my business. Every move I make is to invest and expose myself more. The more people know about your business, the higher number of customers you will have. Always remember, it’s so many more people in the world outside of your hometown.
If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
In Miami, it’s literally an endless amount of things to do! I am a person that is all about scenery. Anywhere with a good background for a picture, I’m willing to go lol. The beach is always a nice vibe! You can go out there and walk the strip, eat or club. If you’re looking for a good eat I’ll suggest Mr. Tasty 305, they offer delicious Miami soul food. Big pink is a brunch spot. You also have Bayside Marketplace. This a good spot for a nice drink at Fat Tuesday and scooter riding.
They recently added a Bacon Bitch that I love! I mean everything is 10/10 the food, music and people! For dinner you have to go to Midtown Miami. The streets are lite up and beautiful backgrounds. Victory is a black own restaurant that have hookah, music and great food! Now I’m not too much of a dress up person, I’m trying to become one. But I enjoy activities like ATV riding, there is a company called Take Over Rentals. It’s best to do that on a rainy day so it’s muddy. I go to the gun range a lot, Henry’s Shooting range is my favorite. On a good sunny day jet skiing is always fun. Ryb_jetskimanagement on Instagram is the people to see when it comes to being on the water in Miami. They have jet skis and yachts with some lit captains! They make sure you have a good time. It’s always something to do here, you’ll have a blast!
Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
With every idea, comes doubt of failing. I have had times where I wanted to just give up completely, but my boyfriend will never let me. He tried to talk me out of working and just quitting, way before I was fired. Of course, I would decline. I was so used to working since the age of 15, that’s all I knew. In addition to that, I always thought “this boy just talking, he can’t take care of me.” He definitely proved to me I was wrong. From my mothers funeral to inventory to monthly bills he has done it all. He’s my #1 supporter! And I’m not just talking financially. We’ve been to California twice for inventory. And he will actually get out and walk with me, store to store and help me pick inventory out. We’ve participated in about 4 pop up shops. Every event he’s there, helping! Anytime I have any percent of doubt in my mind, he’s going to make sure I get back on track.
Sometimes he’s a little harsh, like he’s my father lol. But he always know exactly what to say. I’m very thankful to be blessed with such a loving person. So Shoutout to Bruce! I love you!
Website: https://www.temptresscouture.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/_tempyyy/
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