Starting Skyler M Style & Wellness was more than just launching a business for Yolanda McCray; it was a personal journey of transformation and purpose. Skyler M was born out of a deep love for fashion and accessories, but it quickly became a platform for empowering women to focus not just on how they look, but on how they feel. Drawing from her own experiences, Skyler’s founder recognized the importance of balancing outer beauty with inner well-being, especially after facing her struggles with mental health. Through Skyler M, she now inspires women to prioritize their overall health, embrace their imperfections, and find strength in their faith and community. This interview delves into her journey, the challenges she faced, and the unwavering dedication that drives her mission to help women dress well and live well.
1. What inspired you to start Skyler M, and how does it reflect your personal journey and experiences?
Skyler M Style & Wellness (Skyler M) was birthed out of a love for fashion, accessories, and inspiring others. My mission is to help women dress well and live well. We are a product-based business offering wellness education to women. Women spend millions of dollars to look and feel good but often deal with mental health issues while putting little focus on their overall well-being. Speaking from my personal experiences, I spent many years putting so much focus on my outward appearance that I ignored my health, suffered from depression, and didn’t address my struggles and disappointments. During the pandemic, I had a new encounter with God and shifted my efforts toward my well-being rather than how I looked. I realized that I’m more than my physical appearance and that I matter to God, imperfections, and all. God loves me whether I’m dressed in the latest trends with my hair done or in a t-shirt and sweats. I now have a healthy balance of dressing well and living well. I founded Skyler M in 2023 to inspire women to focus just as much on their well-being as their outer beauty because we matter to God.
2. Can you share a significant challenge you faced in starting your online boutique and how you overcame it?
The most significant challenge in starting an online boutique was securing funding to host the website, purchase inventory, and more. I overcame this by using my own savings and seeking out grant funding to help with my startup expenses.
3. How do your backgrounds in social work and as a licensed Evangelist influence your approach to style consulting and wellness education?
With over 10 years of experience working in the community and serving people, I developed a unique approach to style consulting and wellness education. I love helping others and want women to thrive and succeed. I take a whole-woman approach when working alongside women, focusing on body, soul, and spirit. I treat people with kindness and compassion and aim to inspire them. Through my experiences in the field and ministry, I work with clients from a strength’s perspective, helping boost their confidence and ability to improve their lives.
4. What are some of the biggest struggles you’ve faced as a woman in business, and how have they shaped your professional path?
My biggest struggles have been achieving work-life balance and finding resources to grow my business. I’ve been intentional about protecting my well-being and have sought out resources, programs, and support for small businesses. This has shaped my professional path to stay consistent and dedicated.
5. How do you balance the creative aspects of fashion with the wellness and supportive components of your business?
It’s a juggling act. I love creating, and if I could spend all my time creating, I would. I use my gift of creativity to tailor style and wellness services and create a unique experience for women. Honestly, it’s God. I ask Him for guidance and help to make it all make sense. I try to put equal effort into each aspect. I’m big on task lists, and I try to set tasks and goals for each component.
6. Can you describe a moment when you felt particularly proud of the impact Skyler M has had on your clients?
My proudest moment was when a repeat customer messaged me to let me know how I inspire her and that she loved her products. She also mentioned that she was looking forward to making future purchases. That warmed my heart… it’s all about making my customers happy.
7. What role does mental health play in your work, both for yourself and for the women you support?
Mental health is a number on priority in my work and to maintain peace in my personal life. Emotional heath is vital to having a rich life.
8. How do you manage your own mental health while running a business and helping others?
I manage my mental health by making it a priority to schedule downtime, pray, meditate, stay connected to a supportive community, and take one day at a time. I love day trips and traveling so I make it my business to schedule times to enjoy life. I’ve learned when to take a rest and start again, and when I need to seek support, I do that.
9. What strategies do you use to stay motivated and inspired in your work, especially during tough times?
One strategy I use is to remind myself why I started the business and what it takes to keep going. I often take time to visualize where I’m going and pace myself by taking one day at a time. This is accomplished by setting SMART goals and celebrating both big and small achievements. During tough times, I reflect on the impact I’m making and will continue to make, so I focus on the bigger picture rather than what’s currently happening. Another strategy is staying connected, talking about my struggles with those who support me, and spending time in prayer for encouragement.
10. How has your personal history influenced the way you connect with and support your clients through Skyler M?
My personal experiences help me connect with the women I get to work with because I can identify with many of them. I’ve also had lots of help from many great women along the way, and I believe it’s my duty to pay it forward. I love connecting with women and strive to create a supportive community to help them shine. God has given me a special ability to build rapport with women, and they know it’s coming from an authentic place.
11. What are some common misconceptions about style consulting and wellness, and how do you address them?
Some common misconceptions are that both services are unaffordable, superficial, or that they can manage on their own. I encourage clients to see the benefit of working with a style consultant to help them achieve their desired look. Achieving the perfect look can boost self-confidence and improve how you feel. Wellness education is something we can all benefit from to improve the quality of life and overall well-being. We must invest in our spiritual, physical, and mental health. My services are reasonably priced and worth investing time, money, and effort. I focus on helping clients understand the value of these services.
12. What advice would you give to other women who are trying to balance personal challenges with their professional ambitions?
My advice would be to adopt a growth mindset, seek support from your circle, and set realistic goals as you are enduring challenging times. Mindset is everything, and we have to be honest about where we are, where we are headed, and what help we need along the way. This can help you stay the course.
13. How do you envision the future of Skyler M, and what goals are you working towards in the coming years?
Great question. I envision Skyler M becoming a household name, known for impacting the lives of women and our charitable giving. We donate to our favorite charities, and as our revenue increases, we will be able to support more projects, communities, and causes. My goals in the coming years are to open a brick-and-mortar location where customers can shop, create, and learn.
14. How do you incorporate self-care and personal growth into your daily routine, and what tips do you have for others?
I’m intentional about taking care of myself and seeking opportunities for personal growth. I learned that as I’m managing my business, life, work, ministry, etc., I can easily get overwhelmed and stressed. To remedy that, I plan out times for resting and focus on taking care of my mind, body, and spiritual well-being. I can’t pour from an empty cup, so I try to keep that in mind and prioritize my well-being first. My tip for others is to sit down each week with a planner and plan out times for prayer, rest, and relaxation. Also, seek out opportunities for personal growth.
15. Can you share a piece of advice, or a lesson learned that has been particularly valuable in your journey as an entrepreneur?
Sure, my advice is to take one day at a time and stay consistent. Dig deep when it gets deep and encourage yourself with reminders of you why. Don’t give up when challenges come or when you are tired; rest, regroup, and stay in the race. Stay connected to a supportive community to help you on your journey to success. Lastly, it’s going to be okay, and everything will work out.
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