Inspiring Conversations with Courtney Hensley of True by Courtney

Today we’d like to introduce you to Courtney Hensley.

Hi Courtney, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
Like most people, my business began as just an idea. Initially thought I wanted to be a blogger, so I was creating content and sharing it on Instagram. I had a blog for a little while called ‘The Gospel and Fashion” which was sort of the bridge that led into me opening my business. For as long as I can remember, I’ve always wanted to have a boutique. I never considered starting it online but after following so many powerhouse women on Instagram that had online stores, I realized that it was a great way to start and a very attainable task for me. So I began doing extensive research on how to start a boutique and where to source clothes. It took me about two years to gather all of the courage, money, and information that I needed, but in May of 2020, I finally launched True by Courtney online boutique.

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
Running an online business is everything short of a smooth road. All of your skills are put to the test and you find out what you’re capable of under so much pressure. You have to learn to stand firm in your why and have faith that everything will all come together if you continue to do the work. I’ve faced days with no sales, vendor issues, lack of visibility, and also I had to learn to navigate a brand new business through a pandemic. I often say you have to be extremely passionate about your dream because life will always presents its challenges but they never last. If you can overcome the struggles victory is almost always certain.

Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
True by Courtney is an online boutique that specializes in Every-day-wear for the young woman in the go. We’re most known for matching sets and dresses, which my customers love because it makes getting dresses so easy and effortless. As the CEO and the face of my brand, I have to really stand behind everything I do and sell. I run every aspect of the store from modeling, buying, website development, marketing, shipping, social media and customer service.

Overall I’m really proud that I’ve been able to use True by Courtney as a canvas to combine my passion for fashion and my love for people. My goal is to help women embrace their beauty and embody their truth. I think clothes have a way of uplifting us and I get to be a part of women feeling beautiful and confident and that fulfills me everyday.

What are your plans for the future?
In the future, I plan to expand True by Courtney to a warehouse and fulfillment center and open a storefront. I’m looking forward to building a diverse team of women who really get the vision of True. I’m hoping to design my collections someday as well. Overall I’m looking forward creating real sustainable change in women’s lives. I mentioned before that I am also very passionate about people and I think an extension of True by Courtney will also be women’s empowerment events that focus on mental health, confidence building, and the rehabilitation of women across our country.

Pricing:

• $49-125

Contact Info:

• Email: info@shopwithtrue.com
• Website: www.shopwithtrue.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/truebycourtney/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/truebycourtney
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCsajq7EToZi6hjVHM-PJ1uw

Image Credits
J La’shon Photography Jasmin La’shon jaslashonphotography.mypixiest.com jlphotography93@gmail.com insta: @jlashonph