Chev’s Home Fashion Design and More has been formally registered since 2013, but according to Winnefred Cheverria, owner and operator, the business has been in operation for 15 years by the grace of God.
The Christian entrepreneur shared that she started doing custom-made products after hearing complaints from persons she interacted with, and stemming from her own personal dissatisfaction with home decor items that was available on the market. She soon realised she was on to a good thing.
“My approach to business is driven by my strong conviction that God, who is at the centre of my life, is also the CEO of my business. As a result, I believe in full compliance with all regulations. I also take a deep interest in the spiritual well-being of my clients by creating an atmosphere that encourages the presence of the Lord at all times. There is not a day when I do not pray for and make declarations over my business,” she told Freedom Come Rain.
With focus placed on scope and diversity, Cheverria said she has seen God showing up and showing off in running the business.
Reflecting on when she just started out, she said the business was inntially at her house, but when it started increasing, it became clear that it was no longer feasible to operate from there.
During the pandemic in 2020, she made the bold decision to move out. Placing all her faith in God, she rented a place, but there was virtually nothing happening.
“During those difficult times, a sister came to me and said, ‘God told me to pay your rent until He told me to stop’. And she paid my rent for three consecutive months. ‘He who observes the wind shall not sow.”
Incorporating biblical principles
Cheverria said she ensures she incorporates Biblical principles in how she runs the business, and that’s why she ensures she pays her tithes.
Tithing from her business, she said, is one of her first principles, and she also believes in giving and helping others, so from time to time, she would assist those who may not be able to purchase or do not have enough money to purchase something that they need.
Prayer, she also informed, plays a big role in her business, as she explained that it is built on prayer and scriptural declarations.
Pointing out that she believes in putting God first, she said she has never made any decision without consulting Him.
“I recently moved to a new location. Some persons were sceptical about where I was going, but God gave me the green light, and many are amazed today at the transformation that has taken place in that environment,” she revealed.
Commenting on her products, she said they are driven by her tagline, “The difference is quality,” and she noted that she goes above and beyond to ensure that it is adhered to.
“For example, at Chev’s we put an end to your frustrations with those bedspreads that keep sliding off your beds and causing you to spend more by purchasing a bigger size sheet to fit it,” she highlighted.
However, Cheverria noted that while they do seek to satisfy their customers and be as creative as possible, there is a limit to how far they are prepared to go. Stating that she recognises that affordability is always an issue for some people, she pointed out that if someone comes to them with an idea for their space, they are always prepared to accommodate as long as they are able to maintain the high standards.
As a Christian entrepreneur, she said there are many challenges out there. She shared an example of going to her first location; the environment, she said, was filled with lewdness. She had to compete for the space by playing Christian music and Christian radio. Apostle Jeffrey Shuttleworth’s midday prayers and the Oasis Moments on TBC Radio were regulars in the area.
Very soon after, she was the only one playing anything in the area.
Looking ahead, Cheverria said her long-term goal is to expand the business across the country and into the international space. She firmly believes that the same God who brought her to her current place will also make this a reality.
For other Christians thinking about, or who have already launched out into the deep, Cheverria’s encouragement is for them to “follow your passion and never go without God. Things might not be favourable all the time, but never compromise your faith for better. It is always best when God is in it.”
