Upscale LIVE Magazine Volume 2 - March/ April 2014 - Issue 2 | Page 29

Why did you start your business (other than to make money)? Pure passion is what made me start my business. I love shoes, so why not sell them. I have a shoe fetish. I can look at shoes all day. (Laughing) Yes a girl has to love her shoes. How do you market your business other than an online presence? I do a lot of vendor events, especially events out of town. It gives me a chance to market to a different area and to meet new people. I use Social Media a lot, Twitter, Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram etc. Fashion Shows and Fashion Blogs to connect with potential customers, we offer a newsletter with exclusive discounts for subscribers and the old fashion way; placing fliers and coupons in complementary local businesses, such as beauty salons, clothing stores and jewelry shops. It’s a very competitive market so knowing the newest trends and networking has been working well for me. How long has Faint been around? Faint was birthed in 2012 and moved into production in 2013. Just 2 years and you have definitely made your presence known to many, where do you see Faint in the next year? In the next five years? The next ten years? Next year, I see Faint traveling more towards the west coast and mid-west. And offering a more personalized shopping experience and personalized selections, incorporating a “Let us style you” event. In the next five years, Faint will be a site for the whole family…Men’s, women’s and children’s shoes with a global market base. In ten years, Faint will be a wholesaler to other upcoming shoe stores and more than likely our own shoe line. You definitely have a vision and plan, with those two in hand and the drive you exude to me, I have no doubt that I will be seeing Faint all over the world. What is your company’s mission statement, the reason that this business exists? “Cute, affordable shoes without breaking the bank.” I love it especially the affordable part. What characteristics does your company display that would cause potential customers to select you over your competitors? I’m very personable and believe that outstanding customer service, coupled with a great product, produces great results and longevity. Being a minority small business owner, My clients do not get lost in the world of e-commerce. I interact with my customers a lot and I take their comments and suggestions to heart.