Vshoen Boutique Inc.

Vshoen Boutique Inc.: Ethically Conscious Fashion

Owners: Regan Forrester
Location:  Victoria, BC
Website: www.vshoen.com

The Business

Vshoen Boutique Inc. is Victoria, BC-based shoe store with a focus on ethically conscious fashion.  Opening in April 2011, Vshoen will feature fashionable vegan shoes and accessories, made without the use of animal products such as fur or leather.

The Vshoen concept was created to prove that fashionable, ethically conscious fashion is possible and that high-end products can be made without taking the life of an animal.

The Founder

Vshoen Boutique founder Regan Forrester has always loved animals, and loathed the idea that any animal needs to be killed for its skin or fur.  A recently converted vegan, she stopped buying leather products years ago and became conscious of how animal products are used in the fashion industry.  After becoming frustrated at the lack of high quality, fashionable choices in Victoria that matched her ideals, she decided to open her own vegan shoe and accessory store.

The Small Business BC Connection

Small Business BC has been extremely helpful in Regan’s business development process, and helped her sift through the enormous amount of information available to her and focus on what was most important for her business.

Small Business BC recognized Vshoen Boutique Inc. with a 2010 Successful You Awards nominee for Best Concept.

Small Business BC Seminars & Resources for businesses like Vshoen Boutique Inc.:

• Social Media and Online Marketing Tactics
• Small Business Sales Strategies    
• My First Year in Business – A Financial Overview

Entrepreneurial Advice

Thanks to thorough market research, Regan was able to confirm that Victoria was an ideal place to start her business.  Since vegan fashion is a fairly progressive concept, it was important to find a community that would be receptive to it.

In addition to market research, Regan recommends that fellow entrepreneurs also engage in careful planning and getting to know their community.  Without prior research and planning, failure becomes a greater possibility.

Regan also notes the importance of having passion for your business and belief in yourself.  Never regret giving something a try, and if you fail, you will can learn from your mistakes and try again.

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