WKU News

Payton Browning, a Fashion Merchandising major from Bowling Green, gained valuable experience in the fashion industry this summer with a local internship opportunity at the Pink Lily Boutique.

Pink Lily is a fashion boutique that focuses on women's apparel and accessories, along with made-to-order graphic tees and monogrammed items. The company has an e-commerce website and a retail location in Bowling Green.

Browning's internship focused on the e-commerce site, helping to support their social media marketing.

Browning learned about the opportunity from Pink Lily's Chief Executive Officer and WKU alumna, Tori Gerbig ('09). Gerbig spoke to Browning's class about starting the business and mentioned they offer internships for WKU students. After listening to Gerbig speak about her experience, her words left a strong impression on Browning.

"I had just fallen in love with her story. I was inspired by how she got her business started and how successful it became. Seeing a woman at the head of her own business with a majority of female employees is very empowering," Browning said.

During her internship, Browning's assignments focused on specific social media platforms. On Pink Lily's Pinterest account, she reshared content from industry influencers who wear Pink Lily clothing items and accessories. Browning also created posts on the company's Instagram page and shared content on their Instagram story for multiple nights a week.

In addition to working behind the scenes, Browning also joined fellow employees in front of the camera. She occasionally assisted with weekly 'Try-On Tuesday' events, an initiative on Pink Lily's social media to highlight clothing items and answer customer questions. Two or three employees try on requested items to showcase the outfit on different body shapes and sizes. Another employee shares the video live on Facebook and Instagram.

Reflecting on her internship, Browning is grateful that she could gain experience in the fashion world during this time.

"I didn't think I would be able to get an internship this year due to COVID-19, but I am very thankful that I did. I have learned so much when it comes to social media and advertising. I have gotten to work behind the scenes of what the customers see online," Browning said.

This fashion-oriented marketing internship perfectly aligned with Browning's future career interests. After graduation, she aspires to work as a buyer for a fashion company. In addition to gaining knowledge about company operations, this experience has given her valuable insight into a customer's perspective.

"Working in the fashion world, it is important to learn everything you can from all ends. Before posting anything on the store's social media, I always have to think, 'what would the customers like to see?'," Browning said.

As she prepares for her senior year at WKU, Browning also appreciated the opportunity to learn and grow as a professional during her internship. This experience gave her the chance to develop practical skills and self-confidence to succeed in her future career.

For more information about a major in Fashion Merchandising at WKU, visit: https://www.wku.edu/ahs/fm/index.php