By Admin, BuyLocalBG.com, BuyLocalBg@gmail.com/
Wednesday, September 9th, 2015 11:00 AM CST
Get to Know the Owner of Bowling Green’s Newest Downtown Shop, Back Down South!
1. Tell us a little about you. Where are you from, what are your hobbies and where did you start your career that led to the business?
My name is, Kristen Gunn, and I am the owner/creator of Back Down South Specialty Boutique. I am originally from Cave City, KY. I attended WKU from 2008-2012 where I received a Bachelors degree in Exercise Science and Minor in Nutrition. After graduation I moved to the big city of Nashville to peruse my dream in Fashion. I worked at Muse Boutique for 3 years where I eventually became the Assistant Manager and Buyer for the store. I wanted to gain as much experience and knowledge in the industry I could before developing my own store.
2. What is your earliest memory of your work, what got you interested in it?
This is a tough question because I don’t really have an exact answer. I have always loved fashion. In college I wouldn’t let my roommates leave the house without a pair of earrings in! The funny thing is, growing up I was such a tomboy. It was in the later part of High School when I really feel in love with all aspects of fashion.
3. What is your favorite thing you sell?
I love everything I sell, but my favorite would have to be the apparel. I absolutely love receiving new inventory and getting to experiment with it.
4. Who are your influences in life and your work?
My family, friends, my fiancé and my dog! I have a huge support system that keeps me going at all times. There is absolutely no way I could be where I am today without all of them.
5. If you had to choose a last meal, what would you eat?
Tacos! There is this taco restaurant in Nashville that I am obsessed with. It’s called Taqueria Del Sol! If you haven’t tried it, add it to your list!
6. How important is local business collaboration to you?
I think collaborating with local businesses is defiantly a must. I have always been the kind of person who would rather shop at a boutique over a mall and I would much rather eat at a local restaurant vs. a chain any day. I love the uniqueness and fun of all our local businesses. I plan to collaborate as much as I possibly can. I am always open to new ideas and new ventures.
7. What event in Bowling Green are you involved with?
Currently, I am not involved with one particular event. I plan to be involved with as much as possible. Being located on the square does allow me to be involved with 2nd Saturday!
8. What do you see for the future of your business in Bowling Green and serving South Central Kentucky?
If my dream comes true I will be here for the next 100 years. I absolutely love my store and I hope the community falls in love with it just as much. I am so excited to be apart of such an awesome community and I cannot wait to see what the future has in store for Back Down South.
9. What other locally owned businesses in town do you enjoy shopping, eating or patronizing?
Zingarella’s has always been my favorite boutique in town. I shopped with Liz while I attended WKU. She is super sweet and her store is to die for. I love to eat out… It’s more of a hobby for my fiancé and I! My favorite restaurants in town would have to be 440, Mariah’s and Novo Dolce, but I am so excited for Steamers to open. I know it will be at the top of my list!
