We had the good fortune of connecting with Sanaa Antwine and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sanaa, can you walk us through the thought-process of starting your business?
Our motto is: “Be True to You” to bring awareness of the importance of having values and confidence in yourself, to be successful you must be true to yourself. When you look good, you feel good. We not only specialize in clothing and accessories for men and women but in the boost of confidence and self esteem for all of our customers. In 2019 I was a freshman in high school and I fell in love with lipgloss and my appearance. I began making all natural home made lipgloss for myself and others of no charge because it made us look and feel good. Along the way I began creating and putting outfits together for others. I had a passion for clothing but not within myself which takes us back to the motto “Be True to You”. I wanted to help and inspire others but wasn’t inspiring myself. I began praying and fasting for the love of myself and I received it. Upon the receiving of that blessing I began sharing it to others. I began selling the lipgloss, then added accessories for women and men, and took things one step at a time. My goal is to have everyone looking and feeling good!

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
We’re more than the products and merchandise. The Buttercup Boutique is a hands on , community involved business. On August 5,2022 we hosted a lipgloss making class for little girls! Not only did we teach them a trade they can take with them but we poured into them, we gave them affirmations and had one-on-one conversations with each little girl. I am most proud of how far we have come. Although, it wasn’t easy but life is a journey. We have experienced the trials and tribulations but you must pray and see it through. “Risking is better than regretting”. was our first lesson. When starting a business you have many questions and doubts but you must take the risk because it can change your life forever.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Day 1| With it being my best friends first day in the area I would start by giving her a tour of the area and since it’ll be Sunday we will go to my home church Bright Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Pineville, La.

Day 2| We will go to brunch at Le Bistreaux’s Coffee and Waffle Bar. Afterwards, we will then have a day of adventures. First ,I would take my best friend to the Gone Wild Safari to pet and feed all the exotic animals.

Day 3| I’d then take her downtown to the Alexandria Museum of Art to see all the exhibits and then following participate in the art making class. On Tuesdays we have the fresh farmers market so we will then go there to pick fresh fruits and vegetables to eat throughout the week.

Day 4| We will have a day of relaxation. We will go to Yummy Cookie Spa Health and Day Spa for massages and yoni steams. That evening we will then go back to my home church for mid-week service and Bible study.

Day 5| I will then take her on a tour of the Kent Plantation House to learn more about our history as African Americans and the forms of slavery that took place in Alexandria. Following we will eat lunch at Delish Authentic Soul Food for their famous “Turkey Wang Thursday”.

Day 6| After the relaxation and learning experiences we will then go to the Key 2 Escape to solve the riddles for a little fun and mind challenging game.

Day 7| On her last day in Alexandria we will relax from our busy week and then when night falls we’ll be at Super Daqx Night Club for a night of fun and entertainment.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I want to begin by first thanking God without him I am nothing. Next,my mom, Jennifer Britt and my sisters Makenzie and Makynlee Britt, and Kartina Loyd. Not only is this their business also because it takes a village. They have motivated and supported me no matter what business proposal I had. I would also like to thank my city, Alexandria for the support. It’s in me , not on me. This is more than a hustle it’s a LIFESTYLE.

Website: www.thebuttercupboutique.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebuttercupboutique_?igsh=anIxOHZ1MXRsZ2Fu

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebuttercupboutiqu3?mibextid=kFxxJD

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