Profile :: Amanda Brown

I met Amanda Brown of Lila Couture in March, 2007 at the National Bridal Market. We were both there as exhibitors and I made up several excuses to leave my booth and walk by her booth so that I could gaze at the wedding gowns!

Amanda was so gracious and when I purchased my bridal store, she was one of my biggest supporters. She answered my "silly questions" and encouraged me each step of the way. Now, we call each other for advice and enjoy our working relationship.

I recently interviewed Amanda for Business By The Blog.

Tami :: When and how did you first open your own business?

Amanda :: I purchased a business that was five years old in December of 2006, I have worked in retail and for several ladies apparel lines and designers. I wanted to take the next step and start at the manufacturing and designing side of the business.

Tami :: How did you name your business?

Amanda :: The name already existed and was currently in many boutique so I felt it was important to keep what existed going.

Tami :: If you could travel back in time and speak with yourself as you start your business, what is the most important peice of advice you would give yourself?

Amanda :: Do as much homework as possible. Have your own business model, you don't have to follow the standard or what is suggested. Look at "business for sale" websites. If there are several similar business for sale than the market may not support your idea. Look at all your competition. See how you can set yourself apart!

Tami :: What is the most influential book you have read on small business?

Amanda :: Small Giants and Bag the Elephant

Tami :: It's 10:00 in the morning on a Monday...where are you and what are you doing?

Amanda :: In my office, Monday is typically production updates and shipment information day, orders from the weekend are faxed in and emails and messages to return.

Tami :: It's 6:00 on Friday evening...where are you and what are you doing?

Amanda :: Every Friday is different, this past Friday, made a deposit at the bank, then hit Fed Ex before they close at 7pm.... where I shipped 10 gowns to customers, talked to a new store about a trunk show on my cell. Stopped to pick-up take out for my family, no time to cook dinner tonite~