Today we’d like to introduce you to Erika Jenkins.
Hi Erika, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstory.
Erika Jenkins is the founder, owner, and creative force behind Queen Bee Boutique, a destination for vibrant women’s style based shop in Atchison, Kansas.
What started in 2008 as a humble handmade jewelry shop running out of her home quickly grew into a passion for restoring vintage furniture, which eventually blossomed into the full-line clothing, accessory, and lifestyle boutique it is today. Driven by the heart and hustle of building a legacy for her two boys, I have built Queen Bee Boutique into a go-to spot for effortless trend-forward apparel, boutique denim, artisan turquoise and sterling silver jewelry, and game-day fanwear. Queen Bee is what is is today because of the vision Erika saw and the need for it.
I have focused on the small towns around me because they are the ones who need a place to shop! It’s so hard as a mom with little time to get to anywhere in Northeast Kansas to keep up a styled appearance. I want to offer ladies a place to go that they feel welcome and have fun! I hate walking into a shop and no one speaks to you. You are always greeted at Queen Bee! My customers and our connections is what makes this boutique so special.
Today, whether she’s connecting with customers on the storefront floor, hosting interactive live shopping events, or shipping orders across the country, Erika stays true to her roots: blending small-town community values with big-style confidence.
We have a small store front on commercial street in down town Atchison and we have a website everyone can shop off of. We are also live almost every week to show the new arrivals!
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?
There is never a smooth road to owning a business. We have been lucky enough to survive thru the covid years and still be here. The economic challenges have been tough too. We keep our head just above water some months but we keep pushing. I have wanted to quit so many times but my customers keep me going. I want to continue for them and to show up for them.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know?
We are a women’s fashion boutique that services women ages 19-100. We specialize in fun and different womens tops that are functional for everyday wear. We carry brands like Judy Blue Jeans, Umgee, and Jodifl just to name a few of my favs. What really sets us apart is our unique and hand selected jewelry we carry. Fine luxury pieces to southwestern turquoise in sterling silver. Jewelry is for everyone and should be treasured. I want to help everyone feel good in their skin and look beautiful doing it.
I value our jewelry the most because it’s a huge part of who I am. I worked in fine jewelry sales for 10+ years of my life. I have sold diamonds to turquoise and love it all. Jewelry is a personal passion and I want everyone to know that they can come to Queen Bee and I will help them find that perfect piece of jewelry. No one is truly dressed with out th jewelry on top as icing on the cake!
We have a website, www.qbboutique.co you can find us on Facebook, instagram, and tik tok.
We ship in the US
Is there any advice you’d like to share with our readers who might just be starting out?
It’s a hard lonely road being business owner. You can’t devote much time for gong out or socializing like before. You have to stay focused and sometimes that’s really hard. Your friends won’t understand the demands of a business. Your time is precious and sparse. You will find new friends and keep your chin up- not everyone will like you for owning your own business.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.qbboutique.co
- Instagram: @queenbeeboutiqueks
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/qbjewelsandstuff
