STYLE TAB: What is the best and worst advice you’ve ever received?
SANDI PATTERSON: The best advice I’ve received was from talking to other shop owners in the local area and where I would go on vacation. They were all extremely supportive and just sharing their stories was very helpful for me. You want to take advice from someone who is experienced; someone who has been there and done what you want to do. As for worst advice, a few people very close to me said it wasn’t a good idea to open my own store.
ST: Where did you start out in your career?
SP: I worked in Human Resources for about 25 years.
ST: How did you evolve into a fashion entrepreneur?
SP: I always loved fashion, especially vintage clothing and accessories. When I first went to college, I was actually an Apparel Design major, but I really couldn’t sew!
ST: What inspired you to start your own business?
SP: The fact that it was just something I always wanted to do. Whenever I would go into little boutiques I would think “I can do that.”
ST: What has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced as a business owner?
SP: Just keeping my store fresh and fun. Also, making sure we have the right merchandise for our target markets.
ST: What advice can you give to aspiring entrepreneurs?
SP: If you really want to be your own boss, you have to have a “can do” attitude. You also have to be very assertive and have a positive mindset.
ST: What’s your favorite item in your store right now?
SP: I’d have to say TOMS shoes; they’re our hottest seller. I also love the vintage.