Named after Nicole’s mom and younger brother, LYNNsteven is a reflection of Nicole’s personal style. From fun and flirty to edgier, fashion-forward pieces that feature some of fashion’s hottest labels, learn about how she and her husband paired their passions of fashion and business to create this successful boutique in today’s YEDaily…
Elevator Pitch: Describe your job in a nutshell.
I am the owner of LYNNsteven Boutique, a women’s clothing boutique focused on bringing in lines that are not easily found elsewhere in Vancouver.
Why did you start working at your company? What was the inspiration for this career route?
My husband Andrew & I opened LYNNsteven in December 2009. I had worked in retail for over 20 years and had always wanted to have my own store. We decided to take the leap and start our own business before we start a family. I guess you can say that LYNNsteven is our first baby.
What is the best part of what you do on a day-to-day basis? The most challenging part?
The best part for me is meeting all the amazing people that I get to interact with on a daily basis, from our clients to the clothing reps to the bloggers and other inspiring entrepreneurs. It has definitely been the highlight for me. The most challenging aspect of owning the store is the buying. It’s tough knowing what people are going to like and I agonize over decisions all the time. Just because I like it doesn’t mean everyone else will.
Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
Juggling another LYNNsteven location along with a growing family.
What does success look like to you?
To me, success means being respected in the Vancouver community as a successful entrepreneur; to be seen as someone who is genuine and honest, and who has made a positive impact on the neighbourhood, on the fashion retail industry in the city, and on Vancouver as a whole. Also, being successful means being a good wife, sister, daughter and friend.
What is the most memorable milestone in your career?
Opening the doors to LYNNsteven Boutique on that very first day.
Do you have any advice for other young professionals?
Work hard and being nice to people. Always be yourself; people will respect you if you’re genuine. Tell everyone you know what you are doing, whether starting your own business or in a new professional role. You never know who might be able to help you. Finally, trust your gut. It has never failed me.
Do you support any charities? If so, which one(s) and why is that important to you?
I support the Arthritis Society. Having grown up with Rheumatoid Arthritis I have become passionate about educating people that Arthritis is not just an old person’s disease. Look for us to do an event at the boutique in 2012 to help send a child with arthritis to camp.
What to you is Notable?
All the amazing talent we have here in Vancouver from chocolatiers to fashion designers to restaurateurs and everyone else in between. These people have all followed their dream and to me that is notable.
Blackberry, iPhone, Android, or Other?
iPhone, of course!