Next up in our Interview Series we’re sitting down with the awesomely upbeat Katie Werhner of Fig & Willow. She fills us in on her inspiring story of leaving the corporate world behind to follow her passion for fashion and creating a successful women-run business. Featuring pieces that are casually chic, fun and flirty, Fig & Willow is the destination for affordable, sophisticated style.
We’re so inspired by Katie’s entrepreneurial spirit, her positive, friendly attitude and her understated approach to styling. Read on to discover her favorite styling tip and trend predictions for this season (hint: the 70's are back!).
I hope you enjoy learning more about their brand and their story. XO, Crista
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Fig & Willow is a women’s lifestyle boutique. We focus on making all women feel beautiful in their everyday lives. Whether you’re a stay at home mom, boss babe, or wild & free we have something for everyone! Fashion is ever-changing and we believe every woman should be able to feel great without having to break the bank. Affordable, quality, everyday clothing is our mission! Fig & Willow was named for my mama, who passed away in 2014. My Mother was a beautiful, carefree, amazing woman! She loved all things beautiful and mostly made all of her own clothes! Her favorite place she lived was Alaska, which is where she had her 3 children. The Alaska state bird is a Willow ptarmigan and her love of Fig trees is how Fig & Willow came to life!
Fashion is ever-changing and we believe every woman should be able to feel great
without having to break the bank. Affordable, quality, everyday clothing is our mission!
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Hi! I’m Katie, 34 years old, born in Fairbanks, Alaska but was raised in Anna Maria Island, Florida. I know, a very odd change of scenery! I have always dreamt of owning my own boutique and doing what I love everyday! Most of my career has been corporate retail, which I’ve loved and it has truly helped me get where I am today. My inspiration to finally take the leap and open Fig & Willow was my firstborn Son, Cade. After giving birth to him my whole world changed. I couldn’t imagine not being there when he needed me. I needed a job that I could do what I love AND have the flexibility to take care of my family. With the support of my amazing husband, I started working tirelessly creating this brand. While I do feel I now work more than ever, I have more work/life balance (most days) and get to spend a little more time with my family and work while they’re sleeping!
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Personally, my proudest accomplishment is my family. I now have two little boys, an amazing husband, and a crazy border collie pup! No two days are ever the same, we’re as busy as can be and I wouldn’t change it for anything!
Professionally, turning a dream into reality has been my proudest accomplishment. I still have to pinch myself daily, I feel so lucky and blessed to have been able to do what I love and open Fig & Willow!
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”Life is short, do what makes you happy!”
”Life is short, do what makes you happy!”
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I’m a pretty simple girl and with always carrying around my two littles, I’m sure if I was to wear a lot of jewelry, it would be broken! I love a great statement necklace or fun earrings when I’m out being an adult! Day to day I never leave the house without my watch (I’m always running late anyway), my boys’ initials necklace, and of course my wedding ring.
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My 3 current favorite categories are tassel earrings, choker necklaces, and cuff bracelets!
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Vintage 70’s inspired clothing is definitely making a comeback! High waisted, wide leg pants are big. Ties are in! Tie front tops, pants, dresses, they are super flattering on all body types.
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Less is more! I always advise to keep one “wow” piece. Whether it’s a standout top, printed pants, or a statement piece of jewelry, wear one focus piece and blend the rest in!
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Taking it national - we look forward to growing our online store to reach customers throughout the US. And possibly expanding more brick & mortar locations…we’ll see where the future takes us. Right now we are enjoying the journey!
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Photo Credit: Fig & Willow
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