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In Conversation with Alexa // A La Mode Consignment
"Closing was difficult, laying off my girls was difficult, not knowing if I could pay rent is still difficult. The first month after we closed, I was at the shop alone every day, cleaning, organizing, taking photos, posting on social media. Running, running, running, and asking: what do people want to buy? Do people want to buy? It was a race to nowhere. We have always had family meetings in our house, with my husband, me, and our two children. Last week we had a meeting and I told them I was burnt out, hustling, running, chasing. They all looked at me and said, so stop."
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In Conversation with Erin // Reunion
"Even after 30 years of experience, it's hard to predict what is going to sell. Once we find a line that fits well and is good value for the price, we order core styles (proven best-sellers), then add exciting trends of the season, keeping in mind our climate, and most importantly, our customers."
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In Conversation with Stephanie // Open House
"I don’t worry too much about trends. Although I am aware of what is going on, it’s never been that important to me. I prefer to stick with a set theme or palette for the season. I try to choose timeless, well-made pieces in classic silhouettes, so they can be worn for multiple seasons and years. It’s about creating a wardrobe of pieces you love and bring you joy, buying less and investing in well-made products."
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In Conversation with Dylan, Jen & Laurie // Shampoo Hair Bar
"The decision to take on debt in order to stay in business has been a tough one, especially since we have never had to carry any debt with the business before this. We have also decided to sell our products online, which is brand new to us. Not too sure how it will all work out! Looking forward to the time on the other side of this."
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In Conversation with Lara // Frances Grey
"Frances Grey blurs the lines. She challenges and redefines the feminine style of dressing. We aren't defined by one way or one gender. We have so many layers and desires and needs. Frances Grey provides women with multi-layers to explore their style, moods and vibes. She loves old world, classic structured pieces, art deco, utterly feminine and modern masculine styles. It’s beauty and elegance combined with the refined, edgy and playful sides we all possess!"
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In Conversation with Iain // Shopify
"Keep telling people! The best thing you can do is talk about your business, ask what people think, how it could be better. Ask your current customers, ask your family, ask your dream customer to check the site out! There is a great Shopify guide on getting sales; it’s made for starting out but I recommend it to anyone for just a reminder that you do have some control over bringing folks to your site."
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Support Black-Owned Businesses & Creators
A list to help support Black-owned businesses and creators #blacklivesmatter
Supporting small businesses in Victoria and beyond. #shoplocal
