Check Out Julie Berry’s Story

Today we’d like to introduce you to Julie Berry. 

Hi Julie, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstories with our readers.
My name is Julie, and this all started 15 years ago when trying to sell my jewelry and the Angel Collection I designed called “Angel Wing Wishes.” However, all everyone wanted to know is where they could buy the clothes I wore when selling at shows and fairs. So, I added accessories, scarves, wraps, and what I called “convertible clothing,” designs you could wear several ways… and I would demonstrate “how to wear.” I am an old soul and started collecting antiques when I was 17. I’m inspired by everything Victorian thru the 1920s. When I started wearing my “Fancy Britches” (bloomers and pantaloons) the ladies went nuts! “I must have those!” “Where can I buy?” And I would say….”but I would have to sell these for $50!” (I am personally, very frugal!) This was also in 2008, those same items would now sell more like $80 or $100 today! 

But they did not care the cost! So, I purchased one pack of the bloomers and one pack of pantaloons…and they SOLD OUT immediately! That is when I decided….”I am going to sell what I like to wear!” Ruffles, layers, lace, and crochet, very feminine, romantic with a touch of boho chic. 

Fast-forward 15 years later, I now have 2 locations, (newly downsized from 4…thank goodness…I’m getting too old!) One location is in Shipshewana, Indiana (very touristy) and we just moved our Ohio location after 6 years to 1855 S. Reynolds Road in Toledo, Ohio. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
When it all started in 2008, this particular chapter began because of the economy and the housing market. I owned my own boutique PR Agency then and with the downturn and small businesses cutting back on advertising, marketing, and PR I lost many of my clients and had to re-invent myself, so I started selling my handmade “Silver-Wear” jewelry and the Angels I designed and had cast in solid steel. Every weekend I was doing craft and art shows, flea markets, and festivals… setting up and tearing down… just to pay my mortgage and utility bills. So, the very beginning was my biggest challenge…Reinventing Myself. After several years of proving my concept at these weekend events, selling the clothing I personally like to wear, I just kept moving forward, growing and expanding. I’ve had up to 4 locations and during the growth have had the pleasure to bring my sister Joyce and Sister-in-Law Chrissy into my projects, but with age comes the desire to downsize and minimize, so I’m very happy with our 2 locations and just now dabbling in adding vintage, retro and kitschy home decor and painted furniture to our offerings in our newest Toledo, Ohio location. 

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We are known for vintage-inspired fashions and unique finds. Everyone that comes in compliments our offerings and say, “you just don’t see clothing like this anywhere else.” It’s not just the clothing. I believe it’s how we pull together the entire look from top to bottom. We share tricks and tips on how to wear certain pieces and suggest several ways to pair and get more bang for your wardrobe buck! Our ladies tell us how many compliments they receive each and every time they wear their YouBou Fashions, they even send us selfies of them wearing their outfits…which makes my heart swell! <3 

I personally handmake our “Silver-Wear” Jewelry, Magnetic Brooches, and Cinchers (to hold a vest or jacket closed, or to pinch excess fabric in the back to create more of a shape.) I also took a Millinery class to learn how to professionally embellish hats and make fascinators. 

Now with our Home Decor offerings I am painting older furniture and flipping flea market finds! 

What makes you happy?
Our customers. Because they become our friends and love what we offer. My sister Joyce, Chrissy, Theresa, Rita… my girls ALWAYS have my back. 

My best vendors. They are loyal, supportive and listen to my feedback. 

My studio…which is anywhere my crafting supplies are and I have a day or two to submerse myself into my own imagination! 

My family… I am so very blessed to have my 92-year-old father Jack and my 85-year-old mother Carol… They are my Sun and my Moon! My brothers Jack Jr, and my bestie… Jeff. 🙂 

Contact Info:

• Website: www.youboufashion.com
• Instagram: @youboufashion
• Facebook: www.facebook.com/YouBou.Biz