Profile
Business: Inner Me Consignment Boutique LLC
Address: 3041 S. Broadway, Englewood
Hours: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday
Founded:2015
Contact:720-542-9526
Employees: 1
Interview with Judy Brown, owner
Q: How did you get involved in this business?
A: I had been working in the human services/mental health field for 38 years. I always had a dream of having my own little creative store where people could come enjoy the atmosphere and chat. You might say it was on my “bucket list.” I was blessed with this great opportunity to purchase the shop in the spring of 2015. And it was in the grand city of Englewood, my home town that I left behind when I joined the armed forces at age 18. I took that giant leap of faith that I could build and maintain a unique and interesting consignment store with the loving support of my family. I have always had a strong work ethic, compassion and desire to be of service to others, and a drive toward developing my creative side. These characteristics ensure my ability to keep this business successful for years to come.
Q: What distinguishes you from other businesses in your category?
A: As described above, I have always been motivated to help others enjoy themselves, feel better about themselves and increase their joy. My years of experience as a counselor have been very helpful in allowing customers to vent their life struggles as they shop. My store is small, inviting and, most often, only one or two customers at a time, so, therefore, quiet. Sometimes people like to shop privately, therefore I offer time outside of regular hours by appointment. My artistic ability helps me to select and display merchandise that is creative and appealing. Not a week goes by that someone does not compliment the layout or merchandise found in the store. Having been in management and worked with “teams” in the past, I consider my consignors as team members and an integral part of my success. It is their belongings they are trusting me to market and sell. I consider myself a servant to them, as well. Appointments are not necessary and they can retrieve their items anytime within 90 days. I most enjoy the customers who ask for help in coordinating outfits and choosing items for themselves or their loved ones. The name “Inner Me” was designated to recognize that what we wear can inspire us and others as a fine work of art inspires us.
Q: What do you like best about your line of work?
A: I love it when people return and say how many compliments they received on the merchandise they purchased. I love establishing relationships with new and ongoing customers. I love that I can provide high-quality merchandise at affordable prices. I feel good that this is a “green” business — “reuse and recycle.” Thus, not impacting the environment in a negative way. I love that I am contributing to smaller nonprofit organizations who, in turn, provide clothing and services to those less fortunate. (Right now, more merchandise is donated than sold.) I love being of service to others.
Q: What is your business’ biggest challenge?
A: I get caught up in customer conversations, and rearranging and redesigning the store. I have to learn how to market in more fruitful ways. I am electronically challenged in this new era of social media. I need to spend more time educating and incorporating the skills to ensure success as a small business owner.
Q: Something people might be surprised to learn about you or your business:
A: Veterans with military ID receive 25 percent off select regular-priced items. We can host private parties after hours, providing snacks and beverages. Friends can enjoy socializing, shopping and “playing dress-up” for bachelorette, birthday, reunion or other private events. We can partner with schools and nonprofit organizations for mutual fundraising or donation opportunities.
We are LGBT-friendly and can provide a private shopping experience and item search for those men who enjoy purchasing and wearing female attire.