Name:
Alissa Jacob and Aliza Neidich
How your clients refer to you:
Alissa and Aliza
Company:
Reservoir
Contact info:
8820 Washington Boulevard #102, LA, Ph. (323) 300-5309, Website: www.reservoir-la.com
How many years have you been in business in LA?
3 years.
How did you get your start and what was your initial inspiration?
After Aliza and I had both moved to LA, we decided to open a concept store (something we both felt was conspicuously lacking in this city). In a city with such sprawl, we felt people needed a one-stop retail destination where they could buy anything, a candle, pillow, iPhone charger, jewelry, jeans, or a dress! Reservoir literally means the source and supply of something; we wanted to be a source for the women of Los Angeles to discover a highly curated retail experience.
What do you feel differentiates you from others in your field?
Reservoir has a sense of humor. We don't take ourselves too seriously and we don't get stuck on brands that aren't working. Since inception 3 years ago, we have learned a lot about what works and what doesn't. We like to try new things and have customers be able to laugh and smile as they pass through the store touching our different products. We also believe that first class customer service is everything. I started my career in retail with a high school job at Mitchells in Westport, Connecticut and they taught me how important your customer and your salespeople are to the retail experience. At Reservoir, we try to go above and beyond to provide each and every customer with world-class customer service and an intimate experience.
What do you feel gives you longevity in this big city with so many options?
In only a few short years, we have grown a very loyal following that has supported us as we've grown and moved locations. In addition to customer service, we believe it's very important to offer customers a community that fosters relationships and creativity. We have monthly events at the store including trunk shows, yoga and succulent planting workshops, wine tastings, art shows, etc. We consider ourselves a lifestyle concept shop and customers has responded very well to the ability to go to one resource for a variety of needs.
How do you positively impact your clientele?
We want Reservoir to be a place where our customers become our friends; they come to shop but also because we get to know them and keep them in mind throughout market when we choose our buy. Additionally, if there's something a client needs that we don't have, we do everything we can to help them find it - even if that means pointing them to another store.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I love watching customers walk through the store discovering the items we've purveyed for them. I love to listen to them experience the store the way we've intended for them to. I also love helping women find clothing that makes them feel beautiful. When I run into a customer dressed head-to-toe in our clothes, I know we've done something right.
What is your favorite secret LA spot?
Tomoko Spa, because what's better than Sugarfish and a massage?
How do you benefit mamas?
I think mamas love coming to Reservoir as a place where they can feel like themselves. Many come in with their kids and we will play with them while the moms shop. I think moms need a place where they can put themselves first for a little and remember that even though their children are the most important thing to them, it's also important to retain a sense of self and find something that makes you happy.
What is the most memorable feedback a client has given you?
That we truly understand what women want in a shopping experience!
Pay it forward and name your top colleagues in the same field or related field:
When we were first deciding to open a store 3 years ago, Dawn and Denise Klohs from Newport's A'maree's sat down with us and gave us advice. They were so sweet and forthcoming and we keep their advice in mind all the time. We also respect The Hirshleifers tremendously. We are two best friends (pretty much like sisters) running a business together so we really respect the women in similar positions who have been able to make it work and create something wonderful.
What is the best advice anyone's ever given you? Or what is your "mantra" / words to live by?
Everything happens for a reason. We really believe that.
As moms, the day can escape us, what is your best time-saving trick?
We're open to suggestions!