How did you get into the industry?
My life with fashion began when I was a young girl, growing up on the counter of my Grandmother’s consignment store, The Treasure Chest. Having her and a single mother raise me, I was surrounded by a strong, fearless, creative and fashionable tribe of women.
In 2005, I moved to Los Angeles and sought a career as a model and stylist. We lived in the fashion district and I decided to try my hand as a mini store owner. I invested $70 on merchandise and sold it off of a homemade push card on the streets of downtown LA.
It was an immediate success and I was hooked! My mobile store grew and I became a regular at college campuses and Sunday outdoor markets.
In 2008, I moved back home to the East Coast and opened my first brick-and-mortar store called Bobbles and Lace in my hometown of Marblehead, MA. Fast forward 15 years and here we are with 8 prospering stores across 5 states, a website and a budding franchise model.
What’s New in the Business or in the Franchise Model?
We just opened our 8th location in Westport, Ct and look forward to embarking on a new franchise model.
Where do you See Opportunities or Challenges for the Franchise/Business Moving Forward?
This first year I see time as my biggest challenge. I can imagine that balancing the two businesses with my full attention may be difficult.
What is your Goal for the Business Moving Forward?
I would like I to continue to free myself from the company stores and pour myself 100% into the new franchise business.
Talk to us About Training and Support, How Do You Deliver?
My delivery is very clear and leaves little to interpretation. My training and support style is “Radical Candor” and I like to set clear expectations and give my team tools to do it. I have a real honest boots-on-the-ground approach and like to get my hands dirty with every part of the business. This encourages open dialogue to ask for questions and help.
Your most difficult moment at the Franchise Business?
I have always had a real holistic/intuitive approach to business. I have complete confidence in running my company stores, but always feel a bit intimidated by my lack of worldly business skills….spreadsheets, economics, etc. My desire to be surrounded by people that know more then me, will for sure help with this Franchise Business as well.
Define your Franchise Model:
A. Training and Support Model?
To train within our company stores and offices alongside myself for about 2 weeks. I will then go to their location for 3-5 days to train in their store. In the first year, I will pour myself into the franchisees and be available daily for any questions at any time. I hope to do weekly zooms and quarterly visits to make sure things are running in the most lucrative way.
B. What is the Fee Structure?
5% paid weekly.
C. Territory Definition?
The territory size depends on the location…but once set, no one else can own a B&L in that territory. Additionally, any web-sales shipping to their territory will be subject to a 10% commission paid to the Franchisee.
D. Day in the life of a Franchisee?
I urge all of the Franchisees to start the day with a look at their accounts. Open the store and drive sales for the day. With downtime, secondary tasks will happen. Processing, payroll, steaming, tagging, merchandising, cleaning, etc. Every day as a Franchisee is an adventure!
What does Your Franchisee Do in the Business Every Day?
The most successful Franchisee of a single-unit store will be owner-operated. They will manage inventory, customers, merchandising, payroll, quick books, etc. Never a dull moment.
Who is the Ideal Franchise Candidate?
An ideal candidate will have been in the fashion, beauty or sales industry. They must have a hunger for success and an entrepreneurial spirit.
What Goals Do You Have for the Franchise Model in the Future?
My goal is to inspire other women to be the driver of their own destinies. I would love to teach them everything I have learned so they too can enjoy the success of being their own Boss. We want to share our vision, dream and opportunity with other new franchise owners.
I would love to use the franchise model as a way to bring B&L across the country.