Jan Gandhi and Nancy Sahota are the brains behind The Peacock Parade, an exclusive online boutique that gives Canadians access to coveted designer retail products at affordable prices. What advice do they have for other young professionals? Find out in today’s Notable Young Entrepreneur profile…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your business in a nutshell.
The Peacock Parade is an exclusive online boutique where members have access to coveted designer and contemporary goods at up to 80% off retail prices. Our sales only last for 3-7 days, and quantities are limited, so once an item is sold out, you may never see it again – other than on your enviable friend.
Why did you start your business, what was the inspiration?
Being the customer first and foremost inspired us to start the business. We both lived in New York for many years and had access to amazing designer sample sales and flash sale websites, which provided us the opportunity to purchase designer and contemporary brands at accessible prices. Few sites ship to Canada and most adjust pricing, making the same product considerably more expensive for Canadians. Even now, Canadians still don’t have the same access to these great brands as Americans. We wanted to bring that access back to Canada, providing Canadian women with a curated selection of apparel and accessories, all at price points they can afford.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
Jan: Seeing the items we curate sell to women across Canada and knowing that we are providing them with access to great brands at affordable prices.
Nancy: Receiving great feedback from our customers. We have a great following and love to hear from our customers to understand what they love and how we can improve. We launched this business for them after all!
Where do you see your business going in 5 years?
We hope to grow our brand to reach many more Canadian women, becoming the go-to source for curated designer and contemporary merchandise at accessible prices.
What does success look like to you?
Success would be increasing our member base across Canada, growing our team, increasing our sales and revenues and securing a relevant place in Canadian e-commerce.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Jan: In my prior life as a lawyer, when I was hired as in-house counsel for MTV Networks, Viacom International Inc., in New York. With respect to The Peacock Parade, the day we launched our website, July 20, 2011.
Nancy: Taking the plunge to launch The Peacock Parade!
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Don’t be afraid to take risks, and speak to as many entrepreneurs and professionals in your field as possible. Ask for advice and know where you need complimentary skill sets. Surround yourself with people who enhance your business and are positive.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
Rethink Breast Cancer. We both know families who have been affected by breast cancer, and we know that every little effort makes a difference. We also support Bridgepoint Health, which is a rehabilitation centre in Toronto.
What is Notable to you?
Female entrepreneurs and role models who have strived to make a difference in the world or had successful careers.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
We are both iPhone users.
How do you keep active, energetic, and vibrant?
Jan: Work keeps me pretty busy, but when I can I try to find time for yoga or long walks. Surrounding myself with positive, ambitious people keeps me feeling energetic and vibrant. Frequent trips to New York are also a great source of energy and leave me feeling rejuvenated.
Nancy: I am an avid runner and have been for years. I love pushing myself physically and mentally and running does this for me. You can say that our business has the same type of effect!