EVOLVE Magazine First Coast Region Winter 2023 Issue | Page 18

road to success was obstacle-free . Rapid growth presented a thrilling challenge when enrollment jumped from 3-4 per class to an eventual total of about 70 within months . Starting a competition team was within reach . When auditions were held , more than 25 hopefuls showed up . In addition to rapid growth , Reilly and Madison have also had to navigate a heavy load of responsibilities . They are both busy high school students with jam-packed schedules . Reilly is a full-time dual-enrolled college student . Getting up early has been the key to ensuring responsibilities are cared for . While maintaining A grades in school , the Hughes sisters teach 12 dance classes , compose choreography , curate costuming , attend conventions and process invoices . At the end of the day , it is not lost on Reilly and Madison that they need to make time to “ just be kids .” Madison sums it up this way : “ We … are so blessed to be on this journey together ! We are more than just sisters ; we are best friends !”
When they are not dancing , the Hughes girls enjoy an array of outdoor activities , including surfing , tennis and
and her current business - Old Trends New Trends , was established .
The e-commerce boutique curates a wide selection of authentic , secondhand luxury accessories and handbags . After purchasing items from clients , products undergo a gentle restoration process before finding new longevity with a subsequent owner . “ We make old trends new again !” explains Mckenzi . In this way , environmental sustainability can intersect with fashion . For Mckenzi , promoting the benefits of quality over quantity is at the heart of her mission .
Embracing change has served Mckenzi well when weathering the storms of adversity that come hand-in-hand with business ownership . Being an entrepreneur has helped her overcome her former fear of discomfort . “ If we don ’ t allow for change , things become stagnant , and that is definitely the opposite of what we want in business ,” reflects Mckenzi . Change ( whether foreseen or not ) has helped her evolve and adapt . In Mckenzi ’ s experience , starting a business during a cycling . When asked who is currently trending on their Spotify playlists , the answer was easy … “ Harry Styles and One Direction !” Follow @ level . up . dance
Mckenzi Lyn Flis of Old Trends New Trends - Fueled by the planet ’ s need for a more circular fashion cycle . Mckenzi Lyn Flis comes from a long line of entrepreneurs .
Mckenzi Lyn Flis of Old Trends New Trends
“ I learned early that I like to make my own money !” recalls Mckenzi . She was always open to change and the exploration of new ideas . Starting small businesses was her hobby from a young age . Among her first ventures was an eBay consignment shop . It was this shop that struck within Mckenzi a love of designer handbags . “ Louis Vuitton is by far my favorite luxury house ,” Mckenzi gushes . “ In recent years , as my style and tastes have matured , I ’ ve grown fonder of the house of Chanel as well as Hermès .” Fast forward to the early stages of the pandemic ,
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