I opened the Garment Exchange, a resale consignment store in 2008. I was a stay at home mom for years and after my divorce got back into the workforce. I worked for a company I loved but knew it wasn’t the perfect place for me. I spent months figuring out what path I should take. Before my kids were born, I worked at Nordstrom for 10 years so with my retail experience and my love for resale shopping, a consignment store seemed like the perfect fit. I am passionate about customer service and I make sure everyone that comes in my shop feels welcome. The resale items are carefully picked and employees help keep the store as organized as possible. My future goal is to help, inspire and guide women to be small business owners. I have so much more to share with you all in the future.
1. Joy down in your heart
When choosing the business you want to start, think about how it makes you feel. Does it bring you joy? Does it bring a smile on your face? Starting your own business can sometimes bring fear and doubt. Find a quiet spot to sit and focus on your ideas. Pay careful attention to how it makes your body feel inside and your intuition will help you make good decisions.
2. Keep Calm and Budget On
Small businesses sometimes take months or even years to make a profit. Be realistic and prepare yourself ahead of time. Have savings and start to live on a budget. Simple living is healthy!
3. Location, Location, Location
My resale store is not a destination business. I rely on the surrounding businesses to help drive traffic to my store so location is very important to my business. When deciding on a location, park your car and observe how busy it is during different times of the day. What hours should you be open? Is parking a problem?
4. Legal Help is a Must
Small businesses usually do not have legal staff on their payroll so they are targeted and taken advantage of by sales people and big businesses. Do not sign any contract before an attorney reviews it. Even a one page document that might seem pretty simple can end up causing you problems.
5. Build Relationships with Your Competition
There is enough success available for all so build relationships with your competition. Learn from their experience and success. Before I opened my store I reached out to successful consignment stores in other states and asked lots of questions. I also met with the local men’s
resale and picked his brain since he had been in business for 25 years. They were all happy to share their knowledge.
6. You Can’t Do It All
Most small business owners try to handle it all and then at some point will burn out. For the first year I worked mostly by myself and I was the sales and stock person, marketing director, social media coordinator, janitor and accountant. At some point it was all too much for me. There were some things in my business I needed professional help with and by paying for those services helped free up time so that I could focus on growing my business.
The Garment Exchange
16222 San Pedro
San Antonio, TX 78232
210-820-3000
