#MomCrushMondays Series: Priscilla Kavanaugh, Creator of Bonjour, Boss
1.) You are the creator of the empowering retail brand Bonjour, Boss. What inspired you to create it?
I wanted to make merchandise for a long time, but I was never sure what my “brand” was. I knew that whatever I decided to do needed to have some kind of social action associated with it. Then one day I had an exchange on social media with one of my favorite Bravolebrities that made it all click: the word “bossy” with the “y” crossed out hit me like a bolt of lightning and I got right to work creating product with feminist and inclusive messaging. Donating a portion of proceeds to organizations like Dress For Success made immediate sense – everything in the store benefits a cause related to its theme.
I’m also extremely motivated by the opportunity to show my daughter that work doesn’t have to be an angst-ridden grind. I want her to know she can do things that fulfill her, that she can have multiple streams of income, and that she can create an unconventional career path if she wants to.
2.) Previously, you worked in women’s accessories. Does that influence how you design your clothing?
Yes, it does! But probably not the way you might expect. I worked as a designer for a long time, in a very toxic environment. Although women were the backbone of my workplace, we were not respected at all. Instead of being encouraged, we were spoken down to and pitted against one another. It was the perfect mind f*ck (can we cuss here?) for someone with my insecurities and aversion to risk. I stuck with it because I convinced myself that if I just kept moving ahead, things would get better. But no matter what I achieved, the results were always the same.
It took a lot of time and work for my confidence to emerge after leaving fashion. And I am determined to help other women not feel the way I felt for so many years. That’s the core of Bonjour, Boss’s messaging: we are in control of our own lives, our careers, our bodies.
3.) You are a mother, a content creator, and a business owner. How do you find time for yourself?
I probably don’t take as much time for myself as I should, but I’m working on it! I’m starting to get up earlier to have some quiet time, a little yoga, and a guaranteed shower in the morning. I have so much more energy than before when I would just wake up and throw myself into the day!
I’m also lucky to have a partner who knows I often put my own needs last. He can tell when I’ve pushed myself too far and insists I take time for myself.
4.) What is your favorite message or saying on the Bonjour, Boss brand? What motivates you to write inspiring clothing?
Right now, I really love “boss of my body.” I think it sends a powerful message, and I hope that whoever wears it feels like they’re wearing a piece of armor.
I have a few new groups I’ve been working on that I really love and I’m so excited to launch, so keep checking in!
5.) What is your favorite song lyric? Why?
“Who run the world? GIRLS.” Because we can and we do.
Check out Bonjour, Boss and use the code MODERN15 which will give you 15% off of your entire order!
Priscilla Kavanaugh is a designer, writer, and mother to Ava (2.5) and Justin (39). Follow her on Instagram at @bonjourbitchesblog, and @shopbonjourboss!
