Daily Inspiration: Meet Jennifer Brown

Today we’d like to introduce you to Jennifer Brown. 

Hi Jennifer, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
My journey started in high school in 2017 when I finically could not afford to buy my prom dress, so I decided to make it, which had its viral moment and was featured on Fox 4 News. I was constantly being approached to make other people’s prom dresses, so I thought, why not turn this into a business. Shortly after, in 2018, my younger sister passed away, and everything came to a halt. I was crushed and gave up on designing for a while, but I knew my sister wouldn’t want that for me. From my college dorm room, I got to work and drafted a business plan, began making a website, and did everything I never did before. This time I was determined! On October 15th, 2019, I launched my business in memory of my younger sister naming my business after her, the “Marie B. Collection.” I received so much support and love from peers, family, and even strangers. Before I knew it, the UC NewsRecord was interviewing me about my business. I was even asked to be one of the designers for the University of Cincinnati African Student Association Culture Show. Today, I have been running my online boutique for almost three years. 

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not, what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
Each day, each year is a learning moment. As a first-gen college student and entrepreneur, one of the biggest struggles was teaching myself as I went. It has not been the smoothest road, but success is not linear. Almost three years in, and I am still learning as I go. However, it has been a learning experience. It’s an experience that I wouldn’t give up for anything! 

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I am currently a full-time student at the University of Cincinnati, majoring in Interdisciplinary Studies, focusing on Fashion, Marketing, and Communication. Along with being a full-time student, I am a Fashion Designer and CEO of Marie B. Collection. Marie B. Collection is a women’s clothing collection that focuses on empowering women of all shapes and sizes. Marie B. Collection has a Ready to Wear Collection, which are pieces available to ship sooner. Marie B. Collection also offers a Custom collection where Marie Dolls (Marie B. Collection Supporters) can shop for custom-made pieces and even request custom services. Marie B. Collection strives to make Marie Dolls feel they’re very best! What makes Marie B. Collection unique is that you can shop, but if you want something more specific, you can request to have it custom-made for your body. The atmosphere and customer service are unmatched. Lastly, as the CEO of Marie B. Collection, I have over five years of retail and management experience, seven years of sewing knowledge, and attended three years of design school. Not only does Marie B. Collection personally mean something to me, but I have the qualifications to ensure it is operated at its highest potential. 

What were you like growing up?
Growing up I always took an interest in the fashion industry. While most kids were watching Disney Channel, I was watching America’s Next Top Model. My interest in fashion started with me first wanting to model until I realized that wasn’t my true passion. Instead of wanting to model the clothes, I wanted to be able to dress the models and own my clothing store. So, in my free time, I would always find myself sketching, making fashion collages, or dressing up my dolls. 

Pricing:

• Custom Orders start out at a minimum of $75 include a free consultation and alteration appointment.

Contact Info:

• Email: info@mariebcollection.com
• Website: https://www.mariebcollection.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariebcollection/

Image Credits
@benni_benz_