Nickys Rag Tales

Being in business is unlike any other way of earning a living and being in business in the world of fashion is unlike being in any other business. I hear about those employed in both the public and the private sector talking about holidays due, overtime, pensions and taking career breaks. These are all alien in my world and in this business there are so many variables and ways of going about it that it’s impossible to quantify or qualify it. If that all sounds a little heavy it’s due to my present view of the world based on a huge workload! Focusing on my business is key to doing my best and ensuring success and for me there is no other option.

This past week we have been showing the most beautiful collection for Spring Summer from young, successful Irish designer Heidi Higgins. A beautifully put together collection that works each piece to the maximum, giving enormous choice to the buyers and in a stunning fresh palette of colour. Buyers have been coming to the showroom every day and we finish next Tuesday when the books will be closed and fabric bought in order to ensure late January delivery in time for the spring season.

At the same time I am working closely with the PR Boutique and the talented and professional Cathy Cowan on the visit of Heather Thomson, founder of Yummie Tummie scheduled for the 26^th Of October. A huge task which takes in a TV appearance, events in the Shelbourne Hotel for press and key retailers and a workshop in Brown Thomas. Each minute of the day, which will start with hair and makeup at 5am and end at 6 O’clock in the evening has to be minutely planned.

Oh and I forgot, I have just said goodbye to two key executives from Falke hosiery who have been visiting Ireland and been having meetings with key accounts. Falke is one of the most professional companies I have ever worked for and growth in the accessories area is one of the brightest stars in terms of growth of sales at the moment.

Any boutique that is not buying hosiery, (which is a commodity), a necessary purchase is missing an opportunity to increase turnover with a small outlay.

Have a fashionable week ahead………