Name:
Gabrielle Edwards
How your clients refer to you:
Gabby Edwards
Company:
Mixology Clothing Company
Contact info:
email: Gabrielle@shopmixology.com, instagram: @ShopMixology
How many years have you been in business in NYC?
Mixology first opened its doors in 2009, but we opened our first NYC location in 2015.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
I got my start in the retail fashion industry when I was 13 years old working for my now partners at a different clothing store in Long Island. We then got our inspiration to open Mixology during the 2008 recession when we realized people's shopping habits were going to change and not everyone could afford to shop at high price points. Our goal wasn’t to limit those who couldn’t afford clothing.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
I live and breathe within the same demographic I buy and sell for. Understanding what I’d want to wear and working on the floor of my stores gives me firsthand information of what the consumer wants.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
Mixology prides itself on our competitive price points branded with a high end shopping experience. We also only hire employees who are excited by the industry and who understand the customer, which leads to them feeling satisfied and excited by their purchases.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
I positively impact my clientele by inspiring confidence through the way they dress.
What is your favorite part of your job?
My favorite part of my job is being the exclusive buyer for everything at Mixology. The most rewarding part of that experience is when I get to see the customer’s reactions as they're trying on the clothing. I love seeing how the clothing can positively change the way someone feels and can make any women feel more confident about themselves. There is no better feeling than to help empower women through their personal style. I also love the ability to see trends before they are mainstream, which is especially cool in our niche market.
What is your favorite secret NYC spot?
My secret spot in the city is the spa at Soho House in the meatpacking district, they have the best massages!
How do you benefit mamas?
A lot of mamas who have either just had a baby or are sending their children off to college want to always feel comfortable and confident through clothing. Our price points and trendy clothing allow them to do just that and still have money left over.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
Unfortunately, in today’s society there are a lot of bullies telling young girls they don’t look good. We make it a point to treat everyone the same, but what really stands out is helping those who are looking for a style makeover. Watching those young girls come back into our store feeling confident and better than ever makes this all worthwhile.
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
I love the store Elyse Walker in California. Elyse did an amazing job with her boutique and an even better job with her online store. In many ways Mixology is similar to the experience I felt both in her store and while shopping online - great style and variation of clothing, plus great customer service! She also developed and is now selling her own lines of clothing throughout various retailers. Taking inspiration from that, we are also in the process of expanding our design department.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Honesty, integrity and respect for our employees.