Shanna Scurlock, owner of Pretenses Boutique and More, is a local woman who knows how to make a career look good. After graduating from Louisiana Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in merchandising and consumer studies, Scurlock moved back to Shreveport to start her beloved dream – opening her own fashion boutique. She achieved this goal when she opened Pretenses in March of 2013 and has been thriving ever since.

She’s very grateful for those who helped her along the way. “My teachers at LA Tech made a huge impact on my life and encouraged me to reach for my goals and dreams,” Scurlock said. “I’m very fortunate to come from a large family and have a great group of friends.”

What inspired you to start this career? Scurlock: Fashion has always been a passion of mine. I’ve enjoyed helping my friends and family find the best look for them for as long as I can remember, and I’ve always wanted to own my own business. I worked for years in various retail stores and boutiques throughout college and after graduation, so when I got the chance to open Pretenses, I had to go for it!

Q: What does your shop specialize in? What do you sell? Scurlock: We sell women’s clothing, shoes, gifts and accessories.

Q: What does a day-in-the-life look like for you at work? Scurlock: My day is full of helping customers find their best look, training my employees to recognize how to build that look, merchandising, inventory and researching the latest fashions.

Q: What is your favorite part of your job? Scurlock: I enjoy helping people find the clothes and accessories that make them look their best. It is an amazing feeling when customers look in the mirror and their face just lights up!

Q: What was your greatest challenge at Pretenses? Scurlock: When I first thought about what kind of store I wanted to open, I knew I wanted it to be something totally different from other boutiques in this area. I wanted to carry things exclusive to my store, that no one else in the area would have, and I wanted it to be a place that mothers and daughters could go shopping together and both find lots of things they want. Finding my niche, and stocking something for everyone has definitely been the greatest challenge.

Q: How do you balance family life, social life and other responsibilities with your career life? Scurlock: Right now I’m not married, and I don’t have any kids. Pretenses keeps me very busy year round, but I still try to find time to spend with my family and friends. After all, it was their help and support which has made all of this possible!

Q: What do you like to do in your free time? Scurlock: I enjoy cooking and spending time with all of my friends and family.

Q: What would you tell other women regarding going for their goals/dreams in the work-world? Scurlock: It can be extremely intimidating to go for your life goals. If you’re willing to commit to a lot of hard work, long hours, and sometimes very low pay, it is absolutely worth it! In my business, experience and education has been the determining factor of my success. It’s important to know what it takes to reach your goals. With that said, it’s also important to make time for yourself, and have some fun!

Visit Pretenses online at www.pretensesboutique.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook @pretensesboutique and www.facebook.com/pages/pretenses.

I enjoy helping people find the clothes and accessories that make them look their best. It is an amazing feeling when customers look in the mirror and their face just lights up!”