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

Hi Janice, what’s something about your industry that outsiders are probably unaware of?
“I’m a small business owner” Is a trendy as carrying the latest Gucci bag these days. Not to knock anyone’s efforts as an entrepreneur, because I have a great deal of respect for anyone who’s trying to do something positive. However, the amount of work, planning and detail that goes behind those glamorous pics posted are undermined and underestimated by the majority. I myself didn’t realize the amount of hours (exceeding more than 40 a week) It would take to have a successful running business. I have a great deal of respect for the Nichole Lynel’s (A prominent clothing designer/boutique owner) of the world. No one posts about the inventory check that was off, or the tag the factory placed wrong, communications through a pandemic, returns, exchanges, merchant disputes ……You just see the perfect final edit “buy me now!” picture. When you’re the face of your brand, It’s tough to outsource, you are present daily working on content , new ideas, and barely making it to this weeks photo shoot on time. There are days where I might be able to fit one meal in (between a blended household of four kids) before I’m off being pulled in another direction. Through all of this not losing your ability to CREATE, not letting mundane task keep you away form what made you successful in the first place, your innovational spirit……so you think you want to start a boutique?

What should our readers know about your business?
I am the owner of Mama Cinch, a feel good clothing line for Mamas. I’m super Proud of my brand because it represents women who feel beautiful and confident in their clothes! In the beginning I definitely had the woes of new business “trial and error” moments. I think that’s important, if you don’t have bumps in the road, it almost like missing out on a rights of passage of business ownership. Some key things I’ve learned along the way and I live by are: Be humble, learning is always happening and when you’re humble you can be taught a lot from others, experiences and mistakes. Starting Mama Cinch was so natural for me: I’m all about women uplifting each other to go out and feel their best! I hope if anyone takes anything from my brand or me personally its to always show love, affirmation, and unity!

Any great local spots you’d like to shoutout?
-So right before sunset we’d go eat on the rooftop of the Waldorf Astoria -For breakfast maybe hit up Bru’s Wiffle in Santa Monica and then burn it off on the Santa Monica Stairs -Tao for dinner the next night -Roscoe’s Chicken and waffles for lunch the next day or maybe We be Jammin Cafe to get some Aki fish! Xuma beach for a quick run!

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I want to shout a few powerful women of color who helped me along the way! Gina Woods, Dez White, Jordan Hollins, and Dr. Koffajuah Toeque. Melissa, thank you for being my left brain when I’m only thinking with right side. Thank you for encouraging me to be the face of my brand, and taking my business to the next level, and lastly thank you to the entire Asset Media Group Family.

Website: www.mamacinch.com
Instagram: @mamacinch
Facebook: Mama Cinch