TaylorMarie’s Apparel has been bringing fine quality clothing and accessories to women in the senior community since 2003. Periodic visits from the franchise can include fashion shows and luncheons with the chance for women to shop racks of up-to-date and affordable fashions.
Heidi Welbig has owned TaylorMarie’s for 12 years and started franchising the mobile retail clothing store six years ago. In our Q&A with Welbig, she revealed that her grandmother was the inspiration behind the franchise. Welbig also shared her advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and what she looks for in potential franchisees.
What’s special about the TaylorMarie’s franchise?
It is unique concept going directly to the customer for shopping.
What is the idea behind the franchise?
My grandmother loved to shop. As she became older it was hard for her to get out. I used to bring her clothes but she missed the shopping experience. One day after she was very frustrated by not being able to shop I came home to my husband and said, “I wish someone could bring in a bunch of clothes and she could go shopping.” He thought that was a brilliant idea and that I should start that business. I took my early inheritance from my grandmother and started the business. Eleven years later we are in six states and growing.
How does TaylorMarie’s compare to its competition?
We are very unique in the market. We have very little competition in the country. The competition we do have are very small and run like a mom and pop. Everything about our company is professional and polished.
What were some of the challenges you faced when starting your franchise?
Finding a mobile POS system that could support the business.
Where did you research or get advice about starting a franchise?
I really went with my gut and just started.
What does a typical day look like for you?
My days are very varied, on the franchise side. I typically am reaching out to vendors, and prospects, and current franchisees most of the day. When I am running the currently location: I market in the morning and have an event in the afternoon. I run the event for four to six hours. Check in merchandise. Work with my customers. Try to market future bookings at the event. An event could also be a fashion show. Then I am busy working with models and moderating the show. Help with sales and close out books for the day.
What do you look for in a potential TaylorMarie’s franchisee?
The best franchisees are ones with self-confidence. There is a lot of sales involved. The franchisees cannot be afraid of rejection and making phone calls.
Where do you see the franchise in five years?
Growing to at least 15 franchises with over $5 million in sales.
Can you describe a typical day in the life of a TaylorMarie’s franchisee?
Marketing in the morning, setting up for an event in the afternoon. Working with models, moderating a fashion show, selling clothing and accessories, driving home and closing out books.
What’s your background?
I have been in sales all my life. I was selling corporate office supplies.
What motivates you to keep going?
I have an extreme passion for the business. Twelve years in and I still love it! I also really enjoy helping the women achieve success by owning a franchise.
If you were to start again, what would you do differently?
A couple human judgment errors.
Please tell us your secret to success.
Hard work and passion for the business.
What is the worst job you have ever had and what did you learn from it?
Cleaning offices. Getting money for working hard.
What is one trend that really excites you?
Baby boomers!
What are your three favorite online tools or resources and what do you love about them?
I really like Facebook because it is an easy effective way to market. We will be starting a shopping site on Shopify this September. I am hopeful this will be a positive experience. Inforfree has been great for gathering lists and information.
Do you (or did you ever) have a mentor?
People who were successful in business have always fascinated me. Most of my best friends own businesses.
What advice do you have for others looking to own a franchise?
Purchase a business you have passion for. You will work hard, so you need to love what you do.
Would you recommend others be franchisees? Why?
This is a great business for anyone who loves fashion and also likes helping mature women. We bring joy to many people on a daily basis. How many businesses can say that?
Is there anything else you’d like to tell our readers?
I think how I started the business is very interesting. It is also great that we are able to give back through fundraising for charitable organizations. The company has donated to the Alzheimer’s Association, local churches, synagogue and VFWS. It is rewarding to be a part of a fashion show that can contribute to our local communities.
Where can people get more information on TaylorMarie’s franchise opportunities?
Visit the website here.
Where can people find TaylorMarie’s on social media?
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