Today we’d like to introduce you to Alake Williams.
Hi Alake, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
Hello, my name is Alake Williams. I was raised in Detroit and still currently residing. I am a mother of two and I own and operate a women’s boutique near Downtown Detroit.
I had a extensive career in the hospitality industry for the most part of my life. I’ve held positions that spanned from the kitchen to the dining room floor. I thoroughly enjoyed the industry, but I was beginning to feel like I wanted to explore other avenues. I’ve always had the entrepreneurial spirit and I’ve known for a long time that I would eventually want to work for myself. As I was working in Downtown Detroit, I noticed there weren’t many options for women who wanted to shop last minute within the downtown area. If they wanted to go out for drinks or if they happen to book a last-minute trip out of town, there was nowhere for this person to shop and that’s how OLIVE MODE was born.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Not at all, I opened my physical location last summer during the pandemic. I knew it wouldn’t be easy, but I was up for a challenge. I’ve run into a few obstacles over the last year, the one that sticks out the most would be shipping delays from my vendors as well as to my clients. There are simply some things that will always be out of your control, and this was one of them. I believe constant communication with my clients; a positive attitude and reassurance is what got me through something that could have easily been a disaster.
Appreciate you sharing that. What should we know about OLIVE MODE Boutique?
OLIVE MODE was founded in May 2019 as an online boutique. I sought to create a shopping experience that offered rare unique designs of premium quality and readily available for local clients. I have since introduced a premium brick-and-mortar boutique in the Downtown Detroit area.
Can you talk to us a bit about happiness and what makes you happy?
I don’t contribute my happiness to any particular thing, I know that in an instant that thing can be taken away. So, I choose to be happy and find joy in all I do. I love every aspect of owning a boutique, including the not-so-great moments, because it’s an opportunity to learn and grow. Amongst other things, seeing my business grow and being able to help someone find that special outfit for that special occasion truly brings me joy.
Contact Info:
- Email: alake@olivemodegroup.com
- Website: www.olivemodeboutique.com
- Instagram: olivemode_
- Facebook: Olive Mode Boutique
