Small Business Interview with Natalie Moody from The Designer Express
February 1st, 2010 | Interviews,Online & Small Business Resources,Small Business,Small Business Tips | No Comments »
Today’s KikScore Small Business series features an interview of Natalie Moody from The Designer Express. We came across Natalie and The Designer Express on Twitter at the end of 2009. Natalie is the quintessential online business owner that makes a living selling one of a kind apparel from the world’s top designers. She is also a veteran eBay seller. We were excited that she took the time to give the KikScore blog an interview and share with the small business community her wealth of experience and also pass on some guidance for online sellers and ecommerce merchants.
1.Tell us about The Designer Express and who you focus on serving.
The Designer Express is an online designer boutique. We supply savvy shoppers worldwide with 100% authentic designer items at incredible prices – savings are up to 85% compared to buying retail. We also provide our clients with top-notch customer service.
Geographically speaking, the majority of our business is serving New York, Florida, California, Texas, Europe and Australia. We are currently selling through our new website TheDesignerExpress.com and on Ebay as The Designer Express.
2.How did you get your start selling online?
The idea for the Designer Express originated in a thrift shop, where I purchased a pair of woman’s jeans for five dollars, and sold them on Ebay for a substantial profit. I continued to sell items on Ebay as I moved from thrift stores to retail stores, where I bought items at clearance prices. I began to focus on selling new clothing, and my Ebay store evolved into The Designer Express. I have to give credit where credit is due, and looking back, Ebay really was the tool which enabled me to reach a productive global market. Due to our success on Ebay, we are currently expanding sales venues with the opening of our new web boutique at TheDesignerExpress.com.
3.Where will The Designer Express focus most of its energy in 2010?
The Designer Express was founded on customer service, and customer satisfaction will continue to be our main focus moving into 2010. We plan to spend significant time marketing the launch of TheDesignerExpress.com. We would also like to attract more international clients to our Ebay store, but the new website will be taking center stage.
4.What have you learned from your business that you could pass on to others about selling online?
Customer satisfaction is the most important part of selling online and creating a reputable business. If you make a mistake, be honest with your client. The bottom line is that satisfied customers will continue to shop with you, and will generate new business as well by word of mouth.
Not every new sale idea will be successful, so be prepared for some trial and error. The market is unpredictable, creating many peaks and valleys in sales. Don’t get discouraged. Perseverance and patience will be necessary.
Use slow times to fine tune your shop and research new inventory. Keep focused by following a daily schedule.
5.As 2009 just closed, what do you see as two new trends in your business this year?
We are seeing more International buyers taking advantage of the favorable exchange rate and weak US dollar. Domestic buyers are cutting back on luxury items as they wait for the economy to recover.
6. If The Designer Express could have a dream spokesperson for your company who would it be and why?
A dream spokeswoman would be Oprah. The exposure gained from being featured as one of her favorite things would be second to none.
7. Do you have any parting thoughts for our readers and the small business community?
This year is a great time to expand or start your own small business. Take a chance by making your business dream a reality! There will be hard work involved, but there is nothing better than being your own boss!
Please tell us what you think about this interview or if you have any questions for this business?
