For some, fashion is more than just choosing what to wear. It can be an art form or a hobby, and for sophomore Niki Stanoch, it is both her business and an outlet for self-expression.

Stanoch’s business, Boho Designs, focuses on customizing denim clothing and accessories, as well as designing paintings and sculptures. During the design process, she adds both her customers’ personalities and her own spin to her artwork. 

“It is a clothing brand, but it’s more than that,” Stanoch said. “To me, Boho Designs is a way of self-expression and a way to really get my thoughts out there and connect with people.”

Stanoch initially discovered her love for art and design from her grandmother and first got the idea to start her business three years ago after she passed away. 

“My grandma used to love to design and she’s the one that taught me how to draw and do everything I know how to do,” Stanoch said. “When she died, I felt that it was really important to carry on her legacy, and that’s why Boho Designs came to be as a business.”

Through her entrepreneurship, Stanoch enjoys the freedoms that come with being her own boss. “The best thing about art, especially my own business, is that I don’t have to succumb to someone’s expectations,” Stanoch said.

She primarily markets her brand through her friends and her family members back in Columbia, where she is originally from. She also posts all of her artwork and latest pieces on her business’s Instagram account, @bohodesignz. Stanoch plans to continue to pursue her interest in fashion and build her future around her love for art and design.

“It’s my biggest dream to be a household name,” Stanoch said. “Of course, I want the dream that everyone wants when they think of the fashion business: to have my own fashion house and be the head designer. But realistically, I want to work more with my fashion brand, build more experiences through there, and then hopefully branch out and start my own business and fashion house.”

Stanoch’s biggest obstacle is finding the motivation to keep her business running and find inspiration for her pieces, but she encourages anyone wanting to start their own business to never stop pursuing their interests.

 “It is hard at first not only to produce merchandise, but also to keep the motivation to keep things organized and fresh,” Stanoch said. “Don’t give up. That’s the best advice I can give.”