Southern girls love quite a few things including their alma mater, their hometown, their family and their sorority! Mykela is a Bama Belle who loved her sorority so much she started business because of it. This stylish sorority member wanted to start a business to keep her fellow sorors stylish while showing their sorority pride. Today we are featuring her story of following her dreams and her love of the South. Learn more
Your Name:
Mykela Marshall
Business Name:
Fashionably Greek
Alma Mater:
Auburn University
Sorority:
Alpha Kappa Alpha
Hometown:
My hometown is Monroeville, Alabama! Most people have never heard of it and I tell them it’s the best kept secret. It’s the literary capital of Alabama and hometown of Harper Lee the author of To Kill A Mockingbird.
Current location:
We’re currently located in Fayetteville, North Carolina. Home of Fort Bragg, one of the largest Army bases in the world.
Website Link:
What services do you provide?
Our company is really two fold. We provide Greek apparel and we also have a Non Greek- Boutique with everyday women’s apparel.
Currently we only offer Greek Apparel for Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Our plan was to test the market to make sure our concept works before expanding. In 2016, we will be expanding to other divine nine Greek organizations because we have proven that this concept will work.
Our NON-Greek Boutique provides modern women fashion that is ready-to-wear, always in style, and suitable for almost any occasion. Our goal is to provide timeless pieces that are always on trend season after season.
Why did you decide to start a business?
I’ve always had an entrepreneurial mindset. I attended a regional conference in 2014 and was looking for some new ‘Nalia’ and realized that there was nothing unique. Almost every booth had very similar items. There was one booth that stood out. She offered stylish and comfy sweatshirts and sweatpants. I told one of my sorority sisters that next year I would be a vendor. A year later, I created Fashionably Greek. We offer trendy but classic items that could be worn to any event whether it’s a picnic, a meeting, or a girls’ night out. This is where it all began.
Before you owned a business, what did you do?
Before starting my own company, I worked as a chemical engineer. I am currently still working in this field as an Operations Manager by day and an Entrepreneur by night.
What is your favorite client story?
I have so many faves that it’s so hard to choose. I always love when customers try on an item and fall in love with it instantly. The crazy thing is I get just as excited as the customer. It’s something about seeing people happy with their items that brings me joy.
What is the most important thing you have done to build your business?
I really pride myself on excellent customer service. I believe that happy customers are the key to a successful business. I have gained so many new customers due to referrals. When you are just starting your business, word of mouth is one of the most resourceful marketing tools.
Who are some of your business idols?
I really don’t have idols. I am very fascinated with any entrepreneur. I really enjoy talking to business owners that sell Greek paraphernalia and have done it for many years successfully. It’s always a great learning opportunity whenever I can get them to check out my concept and give me feedback.
Do you have any mentors?
I have a couple of vendors that I consider mentors. I also utilize some of friends and family that have an entrepreneurial mindset.
What is your favorite thing about being southern?
I LOVE Southern hospitality.
What is your favorite southern entrees or sides?
I LOVE mac and cheese. I can eat it for breakfast, lunch and dinner. I think it should be a mandatory side dish for every family event. I love it so much because it was always one of my mother’s best dishes. She was always the person chosen to make the mac and cheese for holidays.
What are your go to accessories for a sorority event?
A girl should never leave home without her pearls because they are not only classic but they are timeless. They can literally be paired with any outfit. The best thing about them is you can dress them up or down.
What do you love about southern fashion?
I love that it’s timeless!
Where do you go to get inspiration for your business?
Inspiration for my business comes from browsing various designer collections for the season.
What do you love about southern sorority women?
I love their southern hospitality. We believe in making everyone feel welcome.
What are your favorite southern brands?
I’m not a stickler for brands. I love vintage inspired pieces regardless of the name on the tag! I actually love to thrift because I can find things that’s one of a kind. sssshh *Don’t tell my secret.
What is your favorite item or piece of clothing to wear/use while doing business?
Currently, my favorite item is my cape. It’s a must have for the Fall!
FULL GALLERY
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Michiel is a Black Southern Belle living a lowcountry life. I love all things fashion, home decor and southern! When I am not running around doing fun stuff for Black Southern Belle, I live in antique stores and have a minor obsession with historic homes :)
