Interview with Crystal Smith and Kelly Venter, owners
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: In 2009, Kelly was forced to retire from her longtime career as a veterinary technician. After being out of work for four years, she decided to go back to work. She started working at a local consignment shop and loved it. It inspired her to want to open a consignment shop of her own. She contacted me, her niece, Crystal. I have an extensive background in retail management, so we made a perfect business match. Being two plus-sized ladies, we know firsthand how hard it can be to find stylish clothes that fit, so we opened Babe’s Got Back.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: Our store may be small, but we have a wide variety of styles and brands to accommodate our very diverse clientele. You will find brands from Xhilaration to Coach. We can also accommodate every budget. Also, we always try to make sure our customers are as comfortable as can be and get any style advice they want.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: Our favorite part about what we do is helping women feel fabulous. We love it when a woman is comfortable enough to try on an item that she swore would never look good on her and loves the way she looks. We also love that many of our regulars have become like family to us.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: Our biggest challenge was definitely getting the word out about us. Being two single moms on a budget, we haven’t had much in the way of advertising funds. Our biggest saving grace is our wonderful customers telling their friends and family about us. Word of mouth has been huge.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: We are here to make an impact and show society that you can be beautiful and fashionable no matter what size you are. Nothing is more beautiful than confidence. Our goal is to help improve confidence in all of our customers.
Profile
Business: Babe’s Got Back
Address: 326 S. Chambers Road
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday
Founded: 2014
Contact: 303-353-9347,
Employees: 2
