![]() This weeks spotlight EntreprenuHER is St. Louis native Taff Jackson. She's giving us the up close and real deal on what it’s like to be in the retail industry. How did you get started in the retail field? Did you have any professional background? I’ve always loved fashion and styling other people since I was a kid. For years I dreamed of having my own boutique and my own brand. So once a hard life lesson hit, my business partner and I got backstabbed something terribly. Instead of taking the negative energy & retaliate with anger towards the person, I used that as my motivation to open my own business. What sets your store apart? Whats set my store apart from a lot of others is That I ABSOLUTELY do NOT follow any others, no lurking or trying to keep up with others. That’s something I’ve done for years. I don't like to get caught up in what the Jones are doing. I might have moments when I check out the competition but never on a daily, weekly or monthly basis to mock or copy them. I DO TAFF IN REAL LIFE. Tell me about your unique clutches? Roi-T came from me thinking of ways for Catwalk to stand out and stay unique from the rest of the boutiques. I decided to create my own women’s clutch as well as a male and female shoe brand. So I researched to find the best manufacturer to produce my designs. The Roi-T clutches are a hit but I have yet to find the shoe manufacturer that I am satisfied with. What does a typical day like for you and your team members? A typical day for us at Catwalk is basic...we come in to fill any appointments booked and just do US *go live, dance, crack jokes, talk about up coming events & make sure we provide the best customer service to those coming in the boutique. I see you go live a lot on Facebook, and I must say it’s quite entertaining! And that’s also how I came in contact with you. I saw your clutches in one of the business groups. Has social media contributed to the success of your boutique? Social Media has boost my sales quite a bit and has gotten our name out beyond our community.
It always look like you’re having a great time while you’re working. I can tell you love what you do! I love Catwalk so much because fashion and girly stuff is my passion! Making money is just the icing on the cake. I can never get bored with fashion. We’re a family and that makes the day fun and easy, ain’t no crabs in the bucket here! How has your business grown since you started? My business has grown quite a bit as for being known, but the revenue has dropped because of so many boutiques popping up everyday. The competition is at an all time high but I keep pushing and doing different things to set us aside of others and will continue until Catwalk/Roi-T is a international name. How do you balance your personal life and running a business? It’s really hard for me to balance my personal life and business because like I said, fashion is my passion so I take it home with me. I just try not to neglected family by including them in what I have going on, so most of the time it all comes together. It actually works for us but I’m working on finding ways to separate the two. I’m still a work in progress. What are some of your best selling products? The best selling items always vary here. One week it could be dresses, the next week clutches or accessories. It just depends on the season and time of year. Looking back, is your business what do you envision for Catwalk Fashion Boutique? Looking back I envisioned Catwalk to be known and very popular but I expected alot more revenue to be coming in by now. We might have a lot of fame but the money isn’t as good as I expected. That's why I keep recreating myself and doing things to keep Catwalk relevant and adding more services. Sometimes I feel like I put in more than what I get back. Thank god my this is my passion in REAL life. What advice would give to anyone wanting to open a boutique? My advice to anyone opening a boutique is to make sure they are ready, willing and able to give it their all because its not as cute as it looks on social media. This is REAL LIFE. Tell us how we can get in touch with you to order some of these fabulous pieces? We have online store that,s open 24/7 https://www.roi-tdivas.com/
33 Comments
Chaille
8/16/2019 09:28:31 am
Love this real and honest....
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Jessnails29
8/16/2019 12:21:53 pm
Taff is a real genuine person! She has an eye for fashion. When you are at the Catwalk you don't feel like you are being sold, you feel like your sister is helping you get ready for a night on the town.
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Tess
8/16/2019 01:23:42 pm
I love this article because it's definitely Taff's personality! I've known Taff for years & she's always been motivated, consistent, unique & dedicated! I'm super proud of you Taff!💖💖💖
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Roi
8/16/2019 07:18:16 pm
Taff is a very hard working independent woman. Not offend you across a hustlin go getting aint never sitting waiting looking for a hand out. U keep rising black queen as the almighty keep blessing u .
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Yo R.
8/16/2019 11:39:26 pm
Taff is a hard working Diva! She is true to herself and dedicated to her loyal customers, friends, and family. She is a living example of a black girl rocks! Don’t change for the world...make them accept you Taff and the world will change.
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Tina Price
8/16/2019 11:58:08 pm
Great article Taff definitely has that gift
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MJae
8/17/2019 12:03:05 am
Catwalk stands because it’s set apart just like Taff! She’s put her heart, soul, love, blood, sweat and tears into Catwalk and that’s why our closets support her immensely. Lol!
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August Renee
8/17/2019 12:16:59 am
There is soooooooo much to say about Taff! I just love her have admired her for years. She is a true inspiration to me. She is the kind of person that envisions something she wants to do and does it. There is never a dull moment around her, I love her energy! I’m so proud of you Taff and I know the RoiT brand will be known internationally!
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Kita
8/17/2019 12:26:16 am
Taff has always been an inspiration when it comes to the hair and fashion industry since we where kids!! She has always been in her on lane and made it happen by any means nessasary! Congratulations Cuzz!!
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Quiana Carter
8/17/2019 06:32:46 am
This article was great. I shop at Catwalk and love the selections that Taff has available whenever go. I have purchased clothing, a clutch and accessories from Catwalk. Everytime I go the atmosphere is amazing and the staff is very personal. I recommend Catwalk to anyone, it doesn't matter what the occasion is....I Promise You Will Find It. Congratulations and Fantastic Job ❤
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Que Jackson
8/17/2019 08:44:34 am
First and foremost I’d like to give thanks and gratitude to the author of article as well to Woman Magazine for acknowledging and spotlighting Taff and Cat Walk Fashion as entrepreneur of the week! 👍🏾
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Lisa Jennings-Finger
8/17/2019 10:39:35 am
Taff is the epitome of professionalism. She always makes her customers feel welcomed. Her and her staff go above expectations to make your experience enjoyable. I was blessed with my first Roi-T clutch and now I have 3 and will be buying more. I recommend that everyone visit to get a taste of the Taff experience. You will not be let down.
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Shady
8/17/2019 10:40:05 am
This place is so awesome she has the newest clothing style that is on point an she is so sweet an her store wow if u haven’t been here at the store then u r missing out come get yo fire styled clutch purses an accessory by catwalk
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8/17/2019 11:08:05 am
Wow! That was a great read! I’ve had the pleasure of doing business with this young lady for the last couple of years. Even though she has her own boutique she finds ways to support my custom T-Shirt and Accessory business. She loves to give back and she has worked so hard and so long to build this brand. I’ve know her since she was a pre-teen and she’s always had an eye for fashion, the ambition to go get it and the hustle to succeed!!!! I am super proud of her and thank you for show casing her, her efforts and Catwalk and Roi-T clutches. The best is yet to come!!!!! Congrats. 2020 Is bigger and better.
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Ebony Lake
8/17/2019 04:44:54 pm
I’m proud of you Taff😍.This was a really great because you opened up about the reality of having a boutique. The advantages and disadvantages that many do not see and owners aren’t telling. Catwalk has already sat itself apart from other boutiques so continue to do what you do best!
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Sunny
8/17/2019 09:37:27 pm
I just mlove me some Taff So down to earth loving free spirit positive vibes always
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Tameka Guy
8/17/2019 09:44:34 pm
A Very Good Stylist n Will get u Right for any Event..❤️
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Tamika Nash
8/18/2019 12:34:13 am
Taff has a great sprit... I enjoy coming to work every day... I have learned so much working for her... She gave me a opportunity to live out my dream... It’s a real life joy working @ catwalk each and every day.....
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Teresa Jackson
8/18/2019 01:07:30 am
First and foremost thanking GOD for helping you find Taff and thank you and your staff for acknowledging this great human being. Taff is truly black girl magic, she is a force to be reckoned with in the fashion industry and the world. She is a visionary and a go getter, her love for fashion keeps her going and she is always looking for ways to reinvent herself and that’s what makes Catwalk unique she dances to her own beat. When you shop at Catwalk it’s an experience, she’s real she’s going to get your money but at the same time if it’s not for you she will let you know and will find something else for you to purchase. The staff is very professional, friendly and makes your shopping experience fun with lots of laughs. This Goddess has a big heart and is very humble, she will give her last to help anyone. Her determination and drive is the reason Catwalk has beat all odds for 11 years. She has been blessed and she loves blessing others. I am honored to be in the presence of greatness and proud of her. Billion dollar Doll🥰
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Carlisha Nicole
8/18/2019 08:27:03 am
Nice!!!! I adore the go getter in her. Her spirit is always welcoming, friendly and funny. I enjoy walking in catwalk when she is there because not only do I alway get something nice but we always have GREAT conversation. Another thing I like catwalk because she has a piece for just about any event I can’t say that for any other boutique in Stl. Happy she is being noticed for her hard work and dedication to her brand, because it is much well deserved! Dope!!!!
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Jimmice Lewis
8/19/2019 08:12:33 pm
I have watch you blossom into the beautiful woman you are, no matter what obstacles came about, it just pushed you harder. Keep pushing, remain humble...
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Sheena
8/19/2019 08:17:46 pm
I am so glad we became buddies via fb
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Mica beckley
8/19/2019 08:19:16 pm
Taff is the realest soul is pure shop with her a few times OMG I love her service she actually pick my outfit out for me I Tried on 3 dresses and she took her time she look at me and said ok ok we going with the black who can go wrong with black I love her service..
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Latoya Jackson
8/19/2019 08:38:20 pm
I love Catwalk fashion so many beautiful styles every time I go there I find just what I need great customer service and hospitality
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Shun Hudson
8/19/2019 10:25:49 pm
Beautiful Clothes & Accessories... Looking Forward To Shopping ❤️
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Bunny
8/19/2019 10:45:38 pm
Ms. Catwalk is simply “ phenomenal “!!!!
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YATTA
8/20/2019 10:41:59 am
This black BEAUTIFUL woman is just phenomenal! I met her over 10 years ago and fell in love with her talents, creativity, ambitious and motivation. Her conversations give you confidence to believe you can do anything you put your mind to. She is more than a go getta! I wish her succes back then and wish her higher success today! Love you Taff
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Cris
8/21/2019 11:47:05 am
Upon entering the boutique, I was greeted and asked to participate in a free give away of a clutch just for walking thur the door which started my shopping experience off good. The owner introduced herself and every associate in the store and ask if I dont see a size or anything I want she was there to help me. The atmosphere is very welcoming and she was very interacting while I shopped. The boutique was very clean and spacious. Overall I'm very satisfied. The Cat Walk has made a regular customer out of me.
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Lakeshia Stephenson
8/20/2019 12:36:13 pm
Phenomenal Woman you are
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Tiffany Vails
8/20/2019 01:31:19 pm
I love Taff she is the sweetest person very down to earth. I love that hustle in her a real go getter. Keep doing you boo you going places and I’m proud of you.
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LaShay R Thacker
8/21/2019 10:19:49 pm
🗣I have always admired the true (Queen Leo ) u are🥰 keep being U and u will continue 2 be truly blessed. U so deserve it. I’m Waiting patiently for u 2 open up here n the H-Town. Luv U Shay.....
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Makeup Artist/Mentor Hello Boss Ladies! Welcome to our community of women entrepreneurs where encouragement & motivation resides. Here you will find tips for success, ways to boost your online business and more. We will also feature stories of how some of our favorite Boss Ladies got started in their journey. So sit back, grab a glass of wine, and be prepared to take your business to the next level.
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